FRENCH

In French at Year 7, students are introduced to and become familiar with the sounds of French and recognise similarities with many English words, noting differences in pronunciation. Students are encouraged to listen, speak, read and write in French through a range of interactions. As they adjust language use to suit different situations, students will be able to notice how culture shapes language. Through their studies, students gradually build a vocabulary and grammatical base that allows them to compose and present different kinds of simple texts.

INDONESIAN

In Indonesian at Year 7, students explore and become familiar with Indonesia through language and culture with an emphasis on awareness applied through the theme of ‘Learning Languages is learning to Live Together’.  Students are encouraged to listen, speak, read and write in Indonesian through a range of interactions. As they adjust language use to suit different purposes, students will be able to notice how culture shapes language. They gradually build a vocabulary and grammatical base that allows them to compose and present different kinds of simple texts.

FAQ

What are some areas explored in this subject?
1. There are two languages offered to students at Catherine McAuley College, French and Indonesian. In Year 7, you will study a semester (two terms) of each language. You will then get to choose which language you wish to continue in Year 8.

2. In Year 7, you will learn how to communicate in a second language using the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. You will learn about various topics such as yourself, your preferences (likes and dislikes) and reflecting on your own culture, Australia, Indonesia and France.

What are the real-world learning opportunities?
Exploring different languages is one of the ways we learn about the world and develop curiosity about new ideas, values, peoples and places. Since knowledge about social relationships and cultural identity are dependent on language, the study of a language extends, expands and enriches our ways of thinking and stimulates an appreciation of our own language and culture.

What will be hands on?
1. Language classes are interactive and the focus of language learning experiences is on communication. Learning experiences in languages are designed to encourage you to process meaningful portions or ‘chunks’ of language, rather than to focus on remembering single words.

2. The language course experience include: speaking and listening games; performing and viewing role plays; conducting/designing interviews; watching films; reading simple authentic texts such as advertisements; making lists and writing articles and emails.

3. A range of digital technologies are used during many of the learning experiences in languages, to allow for direct participation and engagement in a different language and culture.
How often will I have this class?
Languages (French or Indonesian) have two lessons a week and run for one semester each in Year 7. After having a try at both Indonesian and French in Year 7, you will then choose which language you wish to study in Year 8. In Year 9, both Indonesian and French are electives that can be chosen as part of the subject selection process.

Will I study languages every year at high school?
Language study is compulsory in Years 7 and 8 and students are encouraged to continue their language studies into Year 9 and beyond.