Spoken language and oracy

At Canon Burrows, we want to develop our learners into confident communicators who can use spoken language effectively in a range of situations. We recognise the importance of quality speaking and listening to underpin children's literacy development.

Every member of staff at Canon Burrows encourages quality talk and endeavours to model quality talk themselves. This takes place in lessons, our ‘show and share’ assemblies and throughout every aspect of school life.

Talking partners is a strategy that is used to give children opportunity to rehearse their ideas orally before feeding back to a group or to the class. We also use Kagan structures and adult support to ensure high quality talk in the classroom.

Drama, presentations and debating sessions are used to encourage the development of speaking and listening skills; to help children formulate their ideas; and to encourage them to embrace our Christian Values of respect, courage and compassion.