Languages

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.

About the faculty

The language other than English (LOTE) faculty is committed to opening the minds of its students to the world around them. The faculty offers courses across the school curriculum at Strathfield South High School, introducing students to Japanese and Chinese in all 3 stages of their high school years.

Students undertaking courses in LOTE are provided with a range of opportunities to experience course content in the real world. Students are able to participate in school incursions, excursions; outside school competitions such as art speak Japanese, video Matsuri competition and language ability tests.

Courses for study

Stage 4 subjects

• Mandatory Japanese

Stage 5 subjects

• Elective Japanese

Stage 6 subjects

• Japanese/Chinese beginners
• Japanese/Chinese continuers
• Japanese/Chinese extension
• Chinese in context
• Chinese and literature

Faculty focus areas

• Integrate literacy, numeracy and information and communication technology (ICT) skills into quality teaching practices and programs
• Provide active student engagement in all learning
• Provide students with the opportunity to gain important employability skills
• Provide guidance and support for all students’ range of learning needs

Our strategies

• Implementation of the new NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) syllabus in LOTE incorporating the national curriculum.
• Create engaging learning environments for all types of learners.
• Provide opportunity for language ability test; overseas study, overseas exchange programs, overseas excursion and overseas tertiary study

Staff members

Carol Lin – refugee coordinator