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Written by Iris Project

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Latin is the root language for many other languages, and hence its introduction can facilitate language learning in many other languages, especially French, Spanish and Italian. The teaching of Latin involves an emphasis on grammatical training and linguistic analysis which provides a firm foundation for the learning of all other languages and particularly those languages which are directly linked to Latin. The main aim of teaching MFL is to develop children's linguistic competence. Lessons need to be regular and frequent so that previously learnt language can be reinforced and so that pupils can make good progress.

The teaching of Latin at key stage 2 offers opportunities for supporting the introduction of MFLs in the following ways:

* becoming increasingly familiar with the sounds and written form of another language;

* developing language skills and language-learning skills;

* understanding and communicating in a new language;

* making comparisons between Latin and English or another language;

* increasing their cultural awareness by learning about different countries and their people, and working with materials from those countries and communities;

* fostering positive attitudes towards foreign language learning;

* using their knowledge with growing confidence and competence to understand what they hear and read, and to express themselves in speech and in writing;

* forming a sound basis for further study at key stage 3 and beyond.

CROSS-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

As well as the very obvious ways in which Latin can support and enhance the understanding and acquisition of languages, English and other, Latin can also enrich learning in subjects across the curriculum. The primary ways in which it can aid learning are:

* History: aspects of the history of the Roman empire are already incorporated into the KS2 curriculum. The learning of Latin will provide a broader context within which to explore and understand the Ancient World and its influences upon the modern.

* Geography: everything from names and places to why these names and places exist is covered by the learning of Latin at KS2. Basic understanding of cultures and how they affect geography as well as understanding of geographical terminology.

* Sciences: the vast majority of technical and scientific vocabulary derives directly from Classical languages, and so the learning of Latin will greatly enhance acquisition and understanding of these names and terms in every branch of science, be it biology, chemistry, geology, physics, medicine and many more. Likewise much of the basis of modern science and thought has its seeds in the science and philosophy of the Classical World, and a clear grasp of these beginnings of science can provide an exciting and helpful framework for scientific ideas.

* Art, Design and Technology: the study of the Classical World provides much opportunity for fascinating and useful innovations. From mosaic-making and pottery design, to Roman clothes design and painting, the curriculum can be enriched by the introduction of Classical ideas and models.

* ICT: Latin learning has produced a great range of learning facilities, in the form of the Cambridge Latin Project, amongst many others. These are splendid means of acquiring Latin alongside developing a competence in use of computers. It is a commonly accepted fact that the acquisition of Latin and Greek greatly increases competence in ICT, which involves adeptness at analytical thought and categorisation.