At Poppleton Road School, we believe that oracy – the ability to express yourself fluently and grammatically in speech – is the cornerstone of all learning. It serves as an essential component of our curriculum, enabling students to develop crucial communication skills that will serve them throughout their education journey and beyond.

The Importance of Oracy

Oracy is more than just speaking; it encompasses listening, discussing, and engaging in dialogue. Here are a few reasons why we believe oracy is vital:

• Enhances Communication Skills: Effective verbal communication is essential in all areas of life. By focusing on oracy, students learn to articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently.
• Boosts Success: Strong oracy skills support learning across all subjects. Children who can express their ideas verbally are often better at writing and comprehending complex concepts.
• Fosters Social Interaction: Oracy encourages respectful listening and collaboration among peers, which is
  crucial for developing empathy and teamwork.
• Empowers Critical Thinking: Engaging in discussions and debates helps students analyse information, build arguments, and make informed decisions.

How Oracy is Integrated into Our Curriculum

At Poppleton Road School, we have strategically woven oracy into every aspect of our curriculum. Here’s how we do it:

Classroom Discussions and Debates

Classroom discussions are a daily occurrence, providing children with opportunities to voice their opinions and listen to others. Regular debates on various topics encourage students to research, prepare arguments, and engage in healthy discourse.

Group Projects and Presentations

Collaborative projects require children to work together, communicate effectively, and present their findings. These activities not only improve oracy skills but also build confidence and leadership abilities.

Drama and Role-Playing

Through drama and role-playing activities, students explore different perspectives and learn to express emotions and ideas creatively. This approach helps them build empathy and understand diverse viewpoints.

Public Speaking Opportunities

We offer opportunities for children to practice public speaking, from class presentations, assemblies, and leadership roles to school-wide events. These experiences help children conquer stage fright and become proficient speakers.

Measuring Oracy Progress

To ensure our students are developing strong oracy skills, we employ a variety of assessment methods:

• Peer and Self-Evaluations: Children reflect on their speaking and listening skills and provide feedback to peers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Teacher Assessments: Teachers assess children’s progress through observations and structured activities designed to measure specific oracy skills.
• Oracy Portfolios: Through Seesaw children showcase their speeches, presentations, and reflections, providing a tangible record of their development.

At Poppleton Road School, oracy is not merely an add-on; it is integral to our curriculum and personal development. By prioritising oracy within our curriculum, we prepare our children to be articulate, confident, and engaged members of society. We are committed to nurturing these essential skills, ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.