CURRICULUM AREA:  Year 8 &9 LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH (LOTE)

At Harristown State High School, students must study the introductory LOTE modules until the end of Semester One, Year Eight.

The aim of the Middle School LOTE program at Harristown State High School is to develop communication skills and intercultural understanding, broadening students’ perspectives about their own culture and the cultural experiences of others. The study of languages helps the learner to analyse how languages and cultures evolve, are structured and constantly develop. A second language learner therefore becomes more aware and appreciative of the individuals and cultural groups which make up our global community.

How is LOTE studied?

The LOTE course consists of task-based, student-centred learning with focus on cognitive development while reinforcing English language and literacy. Our lessons are structured to cater for different learning needs and prior language learning. Each module is designed to expose students to different cultural traditions and influences, and help them compose and comprehend in the new language.

What is studied?

Topic include Healthy Eating, Endangered Species, Something to Wear, Living on the Moon, Music in my Life, Benefits of Sport, Scavenger Hunt and other modules that may be negotiated with the students to better cater for their prior learning and areas of interest.

How are students assessed?

Various methods are used to assess student ability in the areas of composing and comprehending, for example, notebooks, booklets, anecdotal notes, tests, projects, and role-plays.

Where can a foreign language take you?

Studying a foreign language provides more opportunities for employment in the fields of hospitality, tourism, commerce, industry, trade, education, banking, the defence forces, medical services, the public service and diplomatic service.

What other skills can learning a language provide?