French KS3

What will students study in French at Key Stage 3?

Year 7

Students begin by learning to talk about themselves, their families and their homes, using descriptions, opinions, adjectives and the present tense. They study school life, subjects, facilities, uniform and timetables, and learn to express likes and dislikes. Later in the year, students explore free‑time activities, sport, weather and holidays, as well as the wider Francophone world. They finish with the topic of their town and local area, learning to give opinions, talk about going out and describe weekend plans using both the present and near future tenses.

Year 8

In Year 8, students expand their communication by discussing TV, technology, cinema, online activities and leisure, using present, perfect and near future tenses. They then explore holidays in more detail, describing usual holidays, past trips, journeys, problems and comparisons. Students also study food and eating habits, preferences, healthy choices and future intentions. Throughout the year, the focus remains on improving accuracy, expressing justified opinions and building confidence in speaking and writing across multiple time frames.

Year 9

Year 9 develops greater linguistic depth and maturity. Students begin by learning to talk about jobs, future career plans and the qualities needed for different professions, using future tenses and comparisons. They then study health and well‑being, covering lifestyle, mental health, mealtimes and plans for change. Later topics include festivals, leisure, friendships, descriptions, celebrations and photo‑based communication. Students also revisit holidays with more detail and complexity. By the end of Year 9, students confidently use present, perfect and future tenses, more complex adjectives, comparisons, conjunctions and justified opinions, providing strong preparation for GCSE French.

What are the expectations of students in French?

Written work is marked carefully, with feedback designed to help students improve their accuracy and understanding. Teachers identify the type of error rather than simply providing the correction, to encourage students to reflect on their learning. All students are expected to bring a small French dictionary to lessons. Homework is set regularly and will often focus on learning vocabulary or grammar, especially at the start of the course. It is important that students view this as essential practice. Homework may also include written tasks or comprehension activities.

How can I best support my child in French?

Showing interest in what your child is learning and valuing the subject makes a significant difference. It is not necessary to know any French yourself—although it can help—but asking your child to explain what they have been studying, testing vocabulary, and looking through their exercise book together will help reinforce learning. Encouraging effort and offering praise is extremely effective. Using a mini whiteboard to quiz vocabulary can also be helpful.

It is good practice for students to review their lesson notes shortly after the lesson, and again a few days later, rather than waiting until the next class. This is especially important when learning new vocabulary. These reviews do not need to take long but help keep language fresh in the mind. A range of recommended websites is available to support vocabulary, grammar and French culture.