What is Oracy?

In short, oracy is the ability to listen, talk and communicate clearly. At its core, it’s the outcome that allows students to talk confidently, appropriately, and sensitively. Students learn through talk, deepening their understanding through dialogue.

Every student at The Marlborough Science Academy is encouraged to have a voice, to have opinions on a wide range of topics, and a safe space to discuss them; we teach our students the oracy skills needed to be excellent communicators.

Why is Oracy so important?

In an ever-growing technological world, it is vital that our young people are able to communicate with their peers and with adults. Communication is a key life skill that will aid our students in their future endeavours.

Developing Oracy Skills In All That We Do

Oracy skills are practiced from form time onwards. Form discussions, that mirror the theme and value of the week, exercise the four strands of oracy: cognitive, linguistic, social and emotional, and physical. Shared language, structured debates, oracy targets, and non-verbal communications are demonstrated and all students are encouraged to be actively involved. Discussions are chaired by the form tutor and students are taught to show compassion, tolerance, and dignity.

Throughout the school day, class teachers build oracy skills by creating a safe environment for discussion, integrating interactive and debate activities, modelling clear communication, and providing opportunities for all students to practice speaking and listening.

We recognise that sometimes talking in groups or on issues that are new to you can be difficult; therefore, our reward system recognises this, and all students who participate in the Oracy discussion receive House points.

Oracy Self-Assessment Checklist 1     Oracy Self-Assessment Checklist 2