Exploring Peace Initiatives

Overview

Duration: 80 minutes
Class size: 10 students
Unit: Facing Our Problems Together (Lesson 6 of 8)
Subject: Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)
Age groups: KS1 (5-7 years) & KS2 (7-11 years)
Languages taught: Adaptable based on school context (e.g., French, Spanish, German)
National Curriculum alignment:

• KS1: Modern Foreign Languages - Listening, Speaking, and Early Reading skills
• KS2: Modern Foreign Languages - Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing skills
• Cross-curricular links: PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) and Citizenship

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Learning Objectives

For KS1 (Ages 5-7)

By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:

• Identify and name simple peace-related symbols (e.g., dove, peace sign) in the target language.
• Describe what peace means using simple words and phrases.
• Practise speaking in pairs to present basic ideas about peace initiatives using visual aids.
• Develop confidence in using new vocabulary about peace in short spoken sentences.

Curriculum references:

• MFL KS1 Programme of Study: Pupils listen attentively and engage in spoken phrases. They develop confidence in speaking and repeating key phrases and words.
• PSHE Framework: Understanding feelings and relationships related to peace and cooperation.

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For KS2 (Ages 7-11)

By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:

• Research and select information about a global peace initiative in the target language or simplified English.
• Prepare and deliver a short, structured presentation in the target language, incorporating new vocabulary and phrases related to peace.
• Use visual aids creatively (posters, pictures) to support meaning in their presentations.
• Listen to and respond respectfully to peers’ presentations, demonstrating comprehension and empathy.

Curriculum references:

• MFL KS2 Programme of Study: Pupils listen attentively to spoken language, engage in conversations, present ideas orally, and develop language for real-life context.
• Citizenship Education: Recognising global issues and ways individuals/groups contribute positively.

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Resources Needed

• Flashcards with peace symbols and vocabulary (dove, peace sign, handshake, globe, etc.)
• Simple bilingual dictionaries or phrasebooks (for KS2)
• Paper, colouring pens, scissors, glue, card for making posters
• Tablets or laptops with pre-selected simple information on peace initiatives (e.g., United Nations peacekeeping, International Red Cross, local community projects)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Camera or tablet for recording presentations (optional)

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Lesson Activities

1. Starter (10 minutes)

Aim: Activate prior knowledge, introduce key vocabulary and themes.

• KS1: Show flashcards of peace symbols. Elicit or teach simple vocabulary (e.g. "la paix" (French) means peace). Use call-and-response: “What is this?” “It’s a…”
• KS2: Brainstorm in English what peace means. Introduce 5-6 key phrases in the target language related to peace initiatives (e.g., "initiative de paix," "travailler ensemble," "aider les autres").

National Curriculum links: Speaking and listening skills progress towards familiar themes and vocabulary.

2. Input and Modelling (15 minutes)

Aim: Understand peace initiatives and presentation framework.

• Briefly explain what a peace initiative is, using simple language or translated key phrases. Share examples visually and orally (e.g., image and simple description of the UN Peacekeepers).
• Model a short presentation example (2-3 minutes) with a volunteer pupil or show a recorded example illustrating clear, simple speech and use of pictures. Focus on pronunciation and pacing appropriate for KS1/KS2.
• Emphasise useful phrases to start, develop and finish presentations, including greetings and thanks.

National Curriculum links: Listening attentively to spoken language; practising pronunciation and intonation.

3. Main Activity - Paired Presentation Preparation (30 minutes)

Aim: Research, collaborate, and prepare a mini-presentation using the target language and visual aids.

• KS1: Provide each pair with a different peace symbol or very simple peace initiative (e.g., "Sharing toys," "Saying sorry," "Helping friends") with vocabulary prompts. Help pupils create a poster with their chosen peace-related idea, encouraging use of simple target language phrases like “C’est…”, “J’aime…”
• KS2: Each pair uses tablets or printed materials to research a global peace initiative. They note keywords and prepare a short presentation (3-4 sentences) with visual aids. Encourage use of phrases introduced earlier and to rehearse pronunciations. Teacher supports language use and checks understanding.

National Curriculum links: Collaboration for spoken language; applying reading and writing skills to create visual support materials.

4. Presentations (20 minutes)

Aim: Practise speaking and listening skills; build confidence presenting to peers.

• Pairs deliver their presentations to the class using their posters or digital aids.
• Encourage clear articulation, eye contact, and use of target language phrases learnt.
• After each presentation, ask a simple question in the target language or English to encourage interaction (e.g., “What do you like about this initiative?”).

National Curriculum links: Speaking confidently, listening to others and responding appropriately.

5. Plenary and Reflection (5 minutes)

Aim: Consolidate learning, promote self- and peer-evaluation.

• Quick round of “What I learned about peace today” - each child shares one new word or phrase related to peace in the target language or simple English.
• Teacher gives positive feedback highlighting good use of vocabulary, teamwork, and presentation skills.
• Invite pupils to reflect on how language helps us understand and share important global issues like peace.

National Curriculum links: Developing cultural understanding and appreciation through language learning; fostering personal and social skills.

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Assessment

Formative Assessment

• Observations during paired discussions and group work: engagement, use of target language vocabulary, collaboration.
• Listening to presentations: accuracy in pronunciation, content relevance, use of visual aids.
• Question and answer session following presentations to check comprehension.

Summative Assessment (optional)

• Collect visual aids/posters created for evidence of vocabulary use and understanding.
• Brief written or oral reflection (KS2) on what they have learnt about peace and language skills developed.

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Differentiation

Group	Adaptations
Less confident KS1	Use more visuals; scaffold vocabulary more; pair with stronger partners.
More confident KS1	Encourage forming simple sentences and using greetings and thanks in target language.
Less confident KS2	Pre-select simpler initiatives; provide phrase banks and sentence starters.
More confident KS2	Challenge to add facts or questions in presentations; use more complex phrases.

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Cross-Curricular Links

• PSHE/Citizenship: Understanding peace, cooperation, global citizenship, empathy.
• Art & Design: Designing posters and visual aids.
• ICT: Research using tablets, digital presentation skills.
• Speaking & Listening: Enhanced through paired and group presentations.

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Teacher Notes & Tips

• Encourage a warm, encouraging atmosphere to boost pupils’ confidence in speaking.
• Use praise generously for effort, especially on pronunciation and willingness to speak.
• Allow flexibility in language use; the aim is communication, not perfection.
• Consider recording presentations so pupils can self-assess or share with parents.
• Use real-world examples appropriate for children, such as school-based peace initiatives or well-known international efforts simplified for age.

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Ready to inspire young learners to become global peace ambassadors through language? This lesson balances language acquisition with global awareness in a lively, creative way!