In NSW high schools, languages is a key learning area.
Language study allows students to develop communication skills, learn about languages as systems and explore the relationship between language and culture. Students engage with the linguistic and cultural diversity of societies and reflect on their understanding of social interactions.
The study of a language is compulsory for 100 hours in one continuous school year from Year 7 to Year 10, but preferably in Years 7 or 8.
In Years 11 and 12, NSW schools offer a wide variety of languages, catering for beginning students to background speakers.
Languages at Sydney Secondary College - Leichhardt Campus
Studying a language other than English is very important. A language course provides students with the skills and knowledge to increase global understanding, as well as the ability to understand other cultures.
In Year 7 all students are exposed to four languages which include Chinese, French, Italian and Japanese. Each language is taught for one school term. Students learn how to greet people, talk about themselves by stating their name and age and discuss things they like or dislike. Languages study includes cultural activities which enable students to appreciate different cultural aspects and to become more tolerant.
In Year 8 all students must choose between Chinese, French, Italian or Japanese and study at least 100 compulsory hours to be completed over continuous 12-month period. Students are expected to complete set content and achieve the outcomes of the chosen language syllabus.
The same choices are offered for students who wish to continue studying languages as an elective subject in Years 9 and 10. It is a great opportunity for students to deepen their interest and to be exposed to the target language through the use of new technology.
Students will have a chance to participate in many Language activities such as: French Breakfast, Chinese Yumcha, visiting Italian restaurants and visiting the Nantian Temple in Wollongong.
Students will also have the opportunity to take oversea trips to the countries to practice their speaking and to expand their cultural knowledge of that country.