Languages
Moving between countries, cultures and languages has become more commonplace because of globalisation, increased ease of travel and advanced information and communication technologies. Learning languages helps students respond positively to opportunities and challenges of our rapidly changing world.
Stage 4 (Year 7)
Students are offered introductory courses of one semester in French and Japanese. The focus is on communication of basic information, using ICT to research and present information about France and Japan and cultural learning.
Stage 4 (Year 8)
Students select either French or Japanese for further study as part of the 100 hours mandatory requirement for the attainment of the School Certificate. If there is sufficient demand, German may also be offered. Language study is supplemented by the use of workbooks, ICT for research and presentation and opportunities to participate in excursions.
Stage 5 (Years 9-10)
Students may choose to continue their language study for the two years to the School Certificate. Learning is based around the four key learning skills of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking in the target language. Students learn more about their own culture and language through cultural study. Opportunities for travel to Japan and France may be offered and are ideally suited to students in years 9 and 10.
Stage 6 (Years 11-12)
Language study in the senior years increases opportunities for employment, enhances career paths and future travel experiences. Students are offered Continuers and Beginners courses.
Continuers courses are for students who have studied a language for the School Certificate. It provides opportunities for students to further develop skills and build upon language learning in Years 8 to 10. Topic areas for study include the individual, communities where the language is spoken and the changing world.
Beginners courses are offered in French and Japanese for students who have not studied the language for the School Certificate. It is an accelerated course where students who apply themselves are able to make rapid progress in their language acquisition.
