Oracy is sharing ideas, engaging with others, and talking or listening carefully in discussions. It helps us give speeches and communicate clearly in front of others.

Click here to watch a video about Oracy at Cheviot.https://youtu.be/wY2dMMPRlDI

What do children learn about?

• Speaking clearly and confidently in front of others
• Listening carefully and responding thoughtfully
• Using full sentences and ambitious vocabulary when talking
• Sharing ideas and opinions in discussions
• Asking and answering questions effectively
• Explaining their thinking in subjects like maths and science
• Taking turns, building on others’ ideas and showing respect
• Performing poems, speeches and presentations
• Using tone, expression and body language to engage an audience
• Debating real-life issues and exploring different viewpoints

How is Oracy taught?

Oracy is taught through a structured and supportive approach across the school. Children practise speaking and listening in every subject, not just in English, because learning through talk is an important part of all areas of the curriculum.

Every other Friday, each class takes part in an explicit oracy lesson where children focus on developing key speaking and listening skills. During these sessions, teachers model what effective talk looks like and children practise a wide range of oracy skills, including agreeing and disagreeing respectfully, making eye contact, using gesture and expression, speaking clearly, selecting ambitious vocabulary, listening actively, and bringing others into the conversation. These skills are carefully taught, practised and assessed over time.

Across the wider curriculum, oracy is developed through a range of activities including partner talk, group discussions, concept cartoons, presentations, drama and collaborative learning. The goal is for every child to find their voice, communicate confidently and become a thoughtful, respectful speaker and listener both in school and beyond.