Oracy

Intent

Oracy is the ability to articulate ideas, develop understanding and engage with others through spoken language.

At Shortlanesend we believe spoken language to be fundamental to the achievement of our pupils. We understand that communication and language are the roots underpinning success in reading and writing and that good communication skills can enhance every type of learning.

Oracy underpins our work across the curriculum as pupils develop the skills to reason, discuss, debate and present their learning in a variety of contexts with increasing skill and confidence. Our pupils are encouraged to explore ideas through discussion, to format their own reasoned arguments, to challenge each other’s opinions, to develop critical thinking skills as well as talk in full sentences with a clear and confident voice. It is our intention to provide an environment that is rich in talk and ensure that, by the time they leave Shortlanesend, all our pupils are able to communicate effectively and confidently in a range of different situations, for a variety of different audiences.

When teaching oracy at Shortlanesend, teachers address the four key strands of the oracy skills framework:

• Physical aspects – how we use our voice and body to communicate.
• Linguistic aspects – how we structure what we say and choose appropriate vocabulary.
• Cognitive aspects – staying focused whilst speaking and when listening to others, asking appropriate questions and explaining opinions using reasons.
• Social & emotional aspects – working with others, listening and responding and increasing confidence.

Our oracy curriculum enables children to speak with confidence, clarity and fluency, while adapting their use of language for a range of different purposes and audiences, including the use of Standard English. It emphasises the value of listening and the ability to concentrate on, interpret and respond appropriately to a wide range of listening experiences. Our curriculum teaches children to value their own opinions and be able to express them to others, sustaining a logical argument, while also being open minded and taking account of the views of other, valuing their contributions and respond to them appropriately. It develops in children the necessary skills to present their ideas and share their learning in an engaging, informative way through formal presentations.