St Edward’s College recognises the importance of language learning. The language offered in the curriculum is French, which is compulsory in Year 8 (100-hour course) and offered as an elective subject through Years 9 – 12.
There is also the opportunity for students to study other languages through NSW School of Languages. Students with a different cultural background may choose to study their family language in this way from Year 9 and this then becomes one of their elective subjects with the same time allocation at school.
The study of languages provides opportunities for students to become more accepting of diversity, more respectful of others and more aware of their place in the international community. High quality education in languages enables students to respond positively to the opportunities and challenges of this rapidly changing world. The study of languages also enhances a student’s comprehension of English and develops his cognitive and processing skills.
Courses
Stage 4 |
Stage 5 |
Stage 6 |
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Languages open the door to a bigger world
- Get an interesting job
- Enjoy new places and new cultures
- Find out more about other people and yourself
Students will:
- Learn to listen to, read, speak and write French
- Learn to communicate in French in real life and simulated situations
- Increase the mastery of the French grammatical system enabling them to express themselves verbally and in writing with precision and authenticity.
- Gain an understanding of cultural aspects of French-speaking communities by the study of topics through which language is acquired
- Enhance their skills in English by studying a foreign language.
Technology is used extensively in the French classroom, with interactive web-based programs, website creation, use of iPads and laptops in varied ways. Technology forms an integral part of French pedagogy and complements traditional methods. Students participate in group work but are also able to learn at their own pace and achieve at their own level.
Throughout Stage 5, students will participate in various food experiences, excursions to the Alliance Française, combined lessons with the French students from St Joseph’s, film viewing and interactive activites. There will also be the opportunity to travel to France on a school trip, to experience first-hand the French language and culture.
French Continuers
This course is designed for those students who have completed three years of French: Year 8 with the 100 hours mandatory course, plus two years of Elective French in Years 9 and 10.
The aims of the course are:
- To use French to communicate with others
- To understand and appreciate one’s own culture through the study of French culture.
- To understand language as a system
- To have the potential to apply French to further work, study, training or leisure.
It is recommended that a student who chooses this course would have achieved an A or B in the School Certificate French Course. French Continuers is academically demanding and is suited to those students who are motivated and really enjoy the challenge of learning another language.
This course does count towards your ATAR.
Assessment
Speaking, Listening and Responding, Reading and Responding, Writing in French.
