LANGUAGES (Japanese / French)
The Languages curriculum at Campbell High School provides students the opportunity to develop language proficiency through a four-year sequential program. This continuity allows our students to pursue college language studies at intermediate or advanced levels. Our courses are therefore a part of a continuum of language studies that may start in primary school and go through to university.
Benefits of learning a language
· Allows us to communicate in the language learned.
· Gives us a better understanding of how languages work, including English
· Helps us appreciate other cultures
· Promotes cross-cultural tolerance
· Broadens our career opportunities
· Enhances our intellectual development.
French
Year 7
Our course is based on the Ça bouge method. It is a fun, interactive course designed for high school students. It unfolds in a sequential manner that allows students to build on their acquired knowledge year after year. Students learn vocabulary and grammatical constructions through practical themes appropriate to their level. Teachers design extra handouts to supplement the vocabulary and grammar supplied in the textbook. Songs and short poems are used to teach pronunciation in an entertaining manner. The cultural assignments allow students the chance to "visit" France. They are taught how to:
· Organise their research
· Use the library resources and the Internet to obtain current information
· Take notes and record bibliographical details.
Years 8 - 10
In years 8—10 French is offered as an elective subject. Students continue to study using the Ça bouge method. The study of French in these years inspires students to undertake exchange programs to French speaking countries and the confidence to communicate in the French language. In recent years, a number of students have successfully progressed to the highest level of language studies at college where they have access to the International Baccalaureate program. Students in year 8 broaden their awareness of Francophone (French speaking) countries. They discover French history in year 9 and French literature in year 10.
Japanese
The Japanese course is based on Mirai 1 and Kimono 1, 2 and 3.
All text is an up to date course specifically designed to appeal to Australian high school students. The language for each unit is presented in humorous comic form through a topic or story. The unit follows a logical and familiar pattern that allows the language to develop progressively from year 7-10. The Hiragana script is taught immediately and students will be able to read and write hiragana within a few months. Supplementary resources such as tapes, videos, computer programs, games and worksheets enhance the learning process.
Our students have a lot of fun trying out their language skills and making new friends. Students complete major cultural assignments using extensive library and computer resources. An understanding of Japan and Japanese culture is integral to the course. The courses ensure progressive development following a familiar pattern and provide a solid basis for higher studies. The study of Japanese in years 9 and 10 builds on the work completed in earlier years. The four semester units are sequential and students selecting Japanese are expected to study the language for a full year.
Excursions
Trips to New Caledonia, France and Japan are seen as an integral part of our language program. These trips give students an incentive to study because they can look forward to using the language in context at some stage whilst at Campbell High School.
