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.
Languages other than English (LOTE)
The study of languages contributes to the overall education of students, particularly in the areas of communication, intercultural understanding, literacy and general knowledge. It provides access to the culture of non-English speaking countries and communities. The study promotes understanding of different attitudes and values within the wider Australian community and beyond. This allows students the opportunity to be part of the global world and more adaptable within the 21st century workforce.
Bomaderry High School offers Japanese, Indonesian and German languages along with a minimal number of placements in other languages via the Open High School. The 120 mandatory hours of language study are taught in Year 7. Course content focuses on everyday life and tourist useful language. Research has shown that language studies improve memory, emotional intelligence and inter-cultural understanding as well as providing useful skills for employment in hospitality, tourism, ecotourism, political and business sectors.
In Year 7 students study 100 mandatory hours of Japanese or Indonesian. Main topics are the family, school, food, body and clothing. Incorporated in these topics are greetings, time, dates, transport, animals, housing and festivals. Japanese students also are exposed to the 3 Japanese scripts. Reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in the target language, enhance the study of culturally appropriate behaviour, cultural awareness and some traditional crafts.