We practise key language structures in different tenses during speaking practice. Students usually progress from writing to speaking as writing forms the basis of communication in its grammatical form; whilst speaking can often uses colloquial and conjugations different to the written form. We use question and answer techniques and confirmation of meaning by expanding on the topics in question. Students can very often say something simple but struggle to expand, elaborate, or confirm additional details. It is important that they learn to expand their understanding of topics and be able to make appropriate responses to questions. We use a variety of techvniques including grammar games, role play, and shortened response formats to aid communication flow.

We practise key language structures and tenses both in written and speaking forms. Students usually progress from writing to speaking as writing forms the basis of communication in its grammatical form; whilst speaking can often uses colloquial and conjugations different to the written form. We use question and answer techniques and confirmation of meaning by expanding on the topics in question. Students can very often say something simple but struggle to expand, elaborate, or confirm additional details. It is important that they learn to expand their understanding of topics and be able to make appropriate responses to questions. We use a variety of techniques including grammar games, role play, and shortened response formats to aid communication flow.

Writing starts with using phonics knowledge to spell out simple words based on the sounds students hear. By connecting sounds to letters, they learn to write CVC words and gradually more complex words with digraphs and blends. We guide them to build short, complete sentences using familiar vocabulary and grammar patterns practised in class. Students also work on writing answers to simple questions, completing sentence prompts, and describing pictures using basic sentences. Emphasis is placed on developing the confidence to write independently. Writing activities support and reinforce what students learn in reading, listening, and speaking.

As well as the teacher’s voice, we use various authentic audio files including past exam audio files to practise listening comprehension. Teachers help students improve listening skills by providing both the audio text, as well as replaying sections after the initial listening to pick out individual words or tracts. We establish listening comprehension by asking what was meant by the speaker and discuss any new vocabulary that is not understood and the context and meaning therein. We also practice different techniques that help students understand listening comprehension questions more easily, such as how to skim through questions at the beginning and listen for keywords.