Using favourite stories for language learning

Stories are a great tool for introducing a modern foreign language to your Early Years group. Bold illustrations, appealing characters and exciting storylines will grab the children’s attention enabling them to acquire new language effortlessly. New vocabulary can be introduced in an already familiar format, making it much more relevant to the preschool child as it is heard in context. Here are some simple techniques you can use to get the most from your group’s favourite stories.

Keep vocabulary useful

Pick out vocabulary that the children can relate to and use in everyday life. ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ for example, gives plenty of opportunity to talk about family, feelings or rooms in the house.

Avoid translation

If you are reading a familiar story there is no need to translate key vocabulary as the children already know what’s happening. Pointing to the relevant illustrations as you read the story will enable your group to make the link between the foreign language they are hearing and the story they know and love. You can still check comprehension by asking simple questions about each page.

Be consistent