Children learn language by using it to do things. Language is a medium to help understand other cultures. Learning a language other than English improves our understanding of the English language. Japanese is studied by all students from Years Four to Six. By Year Six, students can understand, read, write and speak some Japanese and have developed some understanding of the culture.
Department of Education, Training and Employment state that
“Skills in languages provide personal, social and employment benefits. For students, quality Languages education enhances understanding of their own language and culture and assists them to reflect on their identity and place in the world. It provides insights into the languages and cultures that shape their own and others’ beliefs, values and attitudes”.
Languages in Queensland State Schools. (n.d.). Studylib.net. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from https://studylib.net/doc/7348675/languages-in-queensland-state-schools
Learning languages has never been more important for Australia’s future. Japanese is the language most commonly taught in Queensland for both primary and secondary schools. At St Catherine’s, we deliver a quality Japanese lesson once a week, designed to achieve the expected Australian Curriculum standard. The curriculum includes basic conversation, Hiragana writing (Years 5 & 6) as well as Japanese culture. We introduce a variety of fun activities, such as song, dance, craft, Origami, food tasting, dressing up in kimonos and Japanese calligraphy, in order to maximise student’s learning in class.
LOTE (Japanese) - Years 4 to Year 6
One 40 minute lesson per week
© Brisbane Catholic Education, St Catherine's Catholic Primary School (2015)