Oracy in History

At Lyngford Park Primary School, Oracy plays a vital role in bringing History to life across Key Stages 1 and 2. Through purposeful talk and discussion, pupils develop the confidence, vocabulary and critical thinking skills needed to communicate as young historians.

In Key Stage 1, pupils are encouraged to use historical vocabulary, ask and answer questions, describe significant people and events, and begin to share their understanding of the past. As they move into Key Stage 2, pupils develop their ability to explain historical change and cause, make connections between different periods of history, consider a range of perspectives and use evidence to support and challenge interpretations.

Using the Voice 21 Oracy Framework, teachers carefully plan opportunities for meaningful discussion through partner talk, small-group collaboration, debating, questioning and structured speaking and listening activities. These strategies enable pupils to listen actively, build on the ideas of others and express their own viewpoints with increasing confidence and clarity.

By embedding oracy within the History curriculum, pupils deepen their understanding of the past while developing essential communication skills. They learn to think critically, evaluate evidence, engage respectfully with different perspectives and articulate their ideas effectively, equipping them with the skills to become thoughtful, knowledgeable and confident historians.

Oracy in Science

At Lyngford Park Primary School, oracy is transforming the teaching and learning of Science across Key Stages 1 and 2, empowering pupils to think, communicate and reason like scientists. By placing purposeful talk at the heart of lessons, children develop the confidence and language needed to explain their ideas, ask thoughtful questions and engage in scientific enquiry.

In Key Stage 1, pupils are encouraged to use scientific vocabulary, describe their observations, ask questions and share simple explanations about the world around them. As they progress into Key Stage 2, they build on these foundations by using talk to explain scientific processes, make predictions, justify their thinking using evidence, challenge misconceptions and communicate conclusions with increasing accuracy and sophistication.

Using the Voice 21 Oracy Framework, teachers carefully plan opportunities for meaningful discussion through structured talk, effective questioning and purposeful groupings. Strategies such as concept cartoons and collaborative learning activities encourage pupils to explore different viewpoints, challenge ideas respectfully and build upon the thinking of their peers.

This rich culture of scientific discussion ensures that talk is not simply an addition to learning but an integral part of it. Through oracy, pupils deepen their scientific understanding, strengthen their critical thinking skills and develop the confidence to communicate as young scientists, both in the classroom and beyond.