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.
In Years 11 and 12, NSW schools offer a wide variety of languages, catering for beginning students to background speakers.
Students in Year 9 and 10 may continue their studies of a foreign language in the following ways:
- they may continue in their present Language
- they may change to a different Language with teacher approval
- they may pick up another Language in addition to the one being studied with teacher approval
- they may start a Language for the first time
In the case of (b) or (c), ‘catch up' work will be required as Year 8 work will be revised only briefly at the beginning of the course.
Two languages other than English are offered at Pittwater High School, French and Japanese.
Course Description
This is the first year of an elective course, which will continue into Year 10. You will begin an audio visual course and learn to communicate in French through use of games, the internet, CDs, DVDs and role play. French culture will also be explored and experienced as an important aspect of learning the language.
Topics you will cover:
- personal identity – name, age, family, interests
- animals and pets
- weekend activities
- like/dislikes
- school
- food- breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
- where French is spoken in the world
- french culture, food and festivals
- fashion
- travel.
You will have the opportunity to participate in role plays, French breakfasts and Open Night. Student exchange to France, Belgium and Switzerland are possible at the end of Year 10 or 11 as opportunities to immerse yourself in the French language.
Assessment of Languages Studies
How is this subject assessed?
You will be assessed in the four skill areas: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Assessment tasks may take the form of dialogues, topic tests, reading and listening comprehension, writing tasks, interviews and culture-based assignments.
Language Studies in Senior School
Can you do this subject in the senior school?
French can be studied at 2 Unit Continuers Level in Year 11 and Year 12 if the student has studied French in Years 9 and Year 10.
French can be studied at 2 Unit Beginners Level in Year 11 and Year 12 if the student has not studied French in Years 8, 9 and 10.
