Year 10 Italian Day Out

On Thursday 26th June, our Year 10 Italian students attended an excursion at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). 

The event encouraged students to continue studying the subject by immersing themselves in the Italian language and culture. The day was packed with engaging activities, motivational speeches, inspiring videos and captivating art.

The event began in the Clemenger Auditorium with videos showcasing the exciting career prospects in Italy in such areas as tourism, finance, retail, business and information technology. Valentina Biguzzi, the Education and Culture Attaché at the Embassy of Italy in Canberra, addressed the cohort via a video call highlighting how learning another language offers a multitude of cognitive, social, and personal benefits. She explained the subject enhances brain function, improves communication skills, fosters cultural awareness, and opens up new opportunities. In addition, students heard from current Year 12 students and young adults talk about how learning another language enriched their education and career opportunities. Students gained firsthand insight into how valuable studying Italian can help with their future prospects. 

Students from the various schools were then divided into groups and each group rotated through different activities. The ‘Art Workshop’ encouraged students to use Italian to describe The Garden of Love, a fifteenth century Venetian painting. The ‘Video Workshop’ featured a short clip in which students answered comprehension questions and through discussion predicted the ending. 

Students also participated in a ‘Speed Dating’ activity during this session. By asking and answering questions, participants learnt to communicate clearly to build fluency. The ‘NGV Workshop’ consisted of a guided tour of the art museum which allowed students the opportunity to learn more about various Renaissance paintings and their historical context. 

Najma (10H) shared her thoughts of the day’s events. The ‘Year 10 Italian Day Out’ excursion enriched our understanding and appreciation of the Italian language through art and culture. 

We were able to practise our Italian by engaging with students from other schools. It was a valuable learning experience which strengthened our language skills. Our year 10 Italian students had an opportunity to participate in fun activities which allowed them to collaborate with peers from other schools and showcase their language skills in a new environment. Let’s hope this unique and enriching experience highlighted the value of learning the Italian language in VCE.

Angela Kelsen Year 10 

Italian Teacher