Vocabulary, Speaking and Listening

Language and Literacy

At St Clement’s we develop pupils’ spoken language, reading, writing and vocabulary as integral aspects of the teaching of every subject. English is both a subject in its own right and the medium for teaching; for children, understanding the language provides access to the whole curriculum. Fluency in the English language is an essential foundation for success in all subjects.

Children are taught to speak clearly and convey ideas confidently using Standard English. They learn to justify ideas with reasons; ask questions to check understanding; develop vocabulary and build knowledge; negotiate; evaluate and build on ideas of others.

Vocabulary development

Children’s command of vocabulary is key to their learning and progress across the whole curriculum. Teachers, therefore, develop vocabulary actively, building systematically on children’s current knowledge. They increase pupil’s store of words whilst teaching to make links between known and new vocabulary through shades of meaning. In this way, children expand the vocabulary choices that are available to them when they write. We take care to ensure that children are conversant with the language which defines each subject in its own right, such as accurate scientific language. With the support of pictures and widgits, we can ensure all children are immersed in a vocabulary rich environment to support both their reading and writing ability at every level.