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. Language learning not only allows students to reflect on the heritage and identity of themselves and others, but also enables them to become a global citizen who appreciates cultural diversity.
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 taught at Prairiewood High School
At Prairiewood High school we offer our students in Year 8 a comprehensive introduction to the French and Japanese languages as well as their respective cultures.
France is among the 5 largest economies in the world and the largest country in Western Europe. Its influence has extended around the world so that French is now still an official language in 29 countries and quite a few other dependent entities. We decided that learning about France and the French language will widen the scope of opportunities we offer our students and enrich their understanding of the world.
Japan’s history, picturesque landscape, delectable cuisine and traditional culture is one of a kind on the globe. They are renowned as leaders of innovation and their popular culture of manga and anime have become just as popular in the other parts of the world. Content in the Japanese courses offered focuses on the functional use of the language in real life situations, making it an authentic experience to embark on.
The essential language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing skills are taught. Using a number of multimodal teaching and learning tools, students take part in interactive activities that enhance their learning outcomes. A thematic approach is used to engage students in acquiring knowledge in areas such as self and family, friends and pets, school, sports and hobbies.
We provide a 100 hour course of continuous study of French or Japanese in Year 8 but also offer the opportunity to continue studying French and/or Japanese as an elective in Years 9 and 10. We also offer Let’s Travel, a fun elective in Year 9 and 10 where students learn how to plan holidays and useful phrases for travelling in Europe.
Students may then study French and/or Italian Beginners and/or Japanese Beginners and Continuers courses in Years 11 and 12.
The importance of studying a modern language
What will students learn about in the study of a modern language?
Students will develop the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary for effective interaction in a language. They will explore the nature of languages as systems by making comparisons between English and the chosen language. Students will also develop intercultural understanding by reflecting on similarities and differences between their own and the target culture.
What will students learn to do in the study of a modern language?
Students will develop the fundamental skills necessary for purposeful communication in another language. They will be equipped with skills to access and respond to spoken and written texts, as well as learn to establish and maintain communication using oral language skills in the target language.
Students will explore the diverse ways in which meaning is conveyed by comparing and contrasting features of the language. They will develop the capacity to interact with people, their culture and their language.
Some senior students elect to study a language as part of their HSC study. In circumstances where students cannot elect a language course at Prairiewood High School, students have the option to enrol through the NSW School of Languages or the Secondary College of Languages (formally known as Saturday School of Community Languages).