Languages - highlights from Term 2

Term 2 has been full of vibrant learning opportunities across our Languages classrooms, with students deepening their skills and cultural understanding through hands-on experiences and creative projects. 

In Year 7 German, students enjoyed a lively incursion with the Goethe-Institut on 19 June. They learned about the global PASCH network and practised their language skills by playing typical German board games—a fun and engaging way to explore culture through communication. If you're curious about what it means to be part of a PASCH school, find out more here. 

PASCH well-wishes

We wish Fatima A (10C) all the best for her fully-funded PASCH scholarship from the Goethe-Institut! She’ll leave soon for her three-week course in Germany. 

Queen Victoria Market excursion

Year 8 German students embarked on a culinary and cultural adventure to the Queen Victoria Market on 24 and 26 June. With a GooseChase scavenger hunt, they uncovered hidden German delicacies, sampled pretzels, bratwurst and jam donuts, and explored the market’s history. Their curiosity, respect and enthusiasm made us proud. 

Over in Year 7 Chinese, 7C students explored mythology by watching and recreating the Chinese creation myth of Pangu through writing and illustration. Using the story mountain, they practised narrative writing and visual expression. 

They also reflected on Dreamtime stories from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, drawing thoughtful connections between cultural storytelling traditions and their shared messages of caring for the world. It was a powerful experience in creativity, intercultural learning and literacy. 

Year 9 Chinese students explore language in action at Box Hill 

Our Year 9 Chinese language students recently spent a half day to take their learning beyond the classroom with a real-life experience in Box Hill.  

The visit began with a guided educational tour of Box Hill Town Hall, where students gained insight into the role of local government, public services, and the multiculturism makeup of our Whitehorse community. The tour provided meaningful context for understanding the importance of Chinese language and culture within the local area. Students also admired some Chinese artworks donated by local people.  

Following the educational tour, students headed to Box Hill Central, where they practiced their Chinese language in real life. This excursion gave Year 9 language students an opportunity to use the vocabulary and key sentence related to shopping and ordering food in Chinese. With a prepared script or cue cards, students successfully navigated the shops and restaurants by speaking Mandarin to interact with shopkeepers, waiters or waitresses. Meanwhile, they also tasted and even discovered some stories behind delicious Chinese food. For example, a group of students found out that rice noodles originated from a diligent wife cooking for her hard-working scholar husband. It is a dish full of love and care. 

“The highlight of the excursion was we can record our journey to create a Chinese speaking video,” said by Meigan T. 

Fiona N agreed. “It was good fun to consolidate our learning and showcase creativity. Thanks to our language teachers”.  

We look forward to seeing more engaging and creative projects from our talented Year 9 Chinese students in the future! 

Melbourne Chinatown excursion 

By Year 10 Chinese Teaching Team 

On Thursday 29 May, 60 Year 10 Chinese language students explored Melbourne’s iconic Chinatown to deepen their understanding of Chinese Australian history and culture. The day began with a fun and meaningful scavenger hunt, guiding students to allocate key Chinese landmarks such as the earliest Chinese church, a traditional herb medicine shop, and a Chinese garden.  

The highlight of the excursion was a truly moving visit to the Chinese Museum, where history came alive. Students stepped into a life-size replica of the ships that brought Chinese miners to Australia during the Gold Rush era. Our young minds were deeply touched as they saw and reflected on the immense challenges, sacrifices and courage of those who came seeking a better life. 

When walking through the displays of antique treasures, cultural artifacts and rare documents, our students witnessed the strength and perseverance of the Chinese community, particularly during the difficult years of the notorious Immigration Restriction Act (1901-1973). Despite the hardships, the community stood strong, preserving their culture, language and identity with unwavering strength. This is a journey inspired by hope, love and unity. As Han Y stated, “I learnt an invaluable lesson: we can shape a better future by working together with compassion and mutual respect”.  

The excursion ended with a delicious Chinese lunch, where students enjoyed dishes like dim sum and dumplings, and learnt the special stories and origins behind them, which enriched their appreciation of Chinese culinary heritage.  

This day was a meaningful experience filled with learning, reflection, and connection—one that will leave a lasting impact on their understanding of multicultural Australia.  As student Brad Z reflected, “All Chinese learners should experience this at least once.” 

What a term for Languages at BHHS!