KS2 French: Going to primary school in France

Video summary

A day at a primary school in Marseilles, including lessons and games.

Children express opinions about their favourite lessons, playtime with games, their favourite books in the library, and lessons in the computer suite.

This clip comes from BBC2 series, Being French.

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Teacher Notes

  • Before watching the clip, pupils could be asked to make a short list of the possible differences between primary schools in France and England.
  • Pupils can be asked to tick the guesses from their list as they watch the clip.
  • Pupils can discuss the following: What is the first lesson? What animal do they draw in their Art lesson? What games do they play at break? Pupils could carry out a simple survey about their classmates' favourite books and compare with the responses in the clip.
  • Pupils could be encouraged to find out more about Manga comics.
  • Pupils could compare the subjects taught, the facilities and routines.
  • They could also discuss their feelings about the lack of uniform in French schools.

This video is relevant for teaching French at KS2 in England and Wales, KS2 in Northern Ireland and second level in Scotland.

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Welcome to Marseilles. video

An introduction to Marseilles showing its position on the map of France. This clip also introduces children living in or around the city and the leisure activities available in the area.

Welcome to Marseilles

A fishing trip in France. video

A father and son go on a fishing trip in Marseilles and les îles du Frioul. They go to the market and show different types of fish on offer. They also buy tickets to cross by ferry.

A fishing trip in France

Going shopping in France. video

A boy called Tom sorts out his toys and clothes, and takes them to the local second-hand market or vide-grenier to sell.

Going shopping in France

Sports activities in France. video

A description of the annual Jours de Sport weekend event in Marseilles with activities such as skipping, rushball, American football and Tai Chi. Children express their opinions on the activities.

Sports activities in France

A school trip by the seaside near Marseilles. video

A group of children living in Marseilles and the surrounding communities are on a school trip to les Calanques and explore the flora and fauna. It includes rules to protect the environment.

A school trip by the seaside near Marseilles

A summer concert in France. video

A summer concert takes place in la Castellane in Marseilles, celebrating cultural diversity. The video introduces two children and their coach ahead of their performances for a talent competition.

A summer concert in France
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