Languages

To have another language is to possess a second soul. – Charlemagne

The study of a language is a rewarding and enriching experience. The ability to communicate with others in their own language brings with it a satisfaction that extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, providing many opportunities for students to develop cross-cultural and international perspectives. The study of Languages can, in fact, be the springboard for numerous options in employment and training, education, travel, leisure, community and family involvements.

Students who study a language learn to communicate in their chosen target language in a variety of contexts, using modern, relevant texts and resources. The increasing use of technology means that students have more direct contact than ever before with the people and events in the countries where the chosen language is spoken.

Years 7 and 8 Languages are in accordance with the Australian Curriculum: Languages. Students will study four foreign  languages in Year 7 and up to two foreign languages in Year 8. The four languages offered at The Friends’ School are Chinese, French, German and Japanese.

In Year 7 in each semester students study one Asian and one European language, so that they have four half-semester ‘blocks’ of language study during the year. These courses, based on a communicative approach to language learning, are designed to provide an enjoyable introduction to the study of Languages.

After studying each of the languages in Year 7, students are asked to choose one or more languages for further study in Year 8. They may then continue their Languages studies by taking sequential programs in Years 9 and 10 respectively to complete the course.

In Year 8 students are progressively assessed  against the Australian Curriculum Achievement Standard and it focuses on ‘communicating’ and ‘understanding’. They build on key language skills (interactive, receptive and productive), which will help them understand how language works and will give them the capacity to communicate effectively in the target language. From learning songs to writing poetry to engaging in role-play scenarios, Year 8 students are provided with many opportunities to develop and use the acquired language skills. 

Year 8 students are advised to consider their language choices carefully. We do offer some flexibility in our Languages program so that students may be able to pick up a new language in Year 9 or Year 10. Such an arrangement must first be discussed with the Head of Languages. However, students should note that it is rarely possible to reach the standard required for study at pre-tertiary level unless the student has worked sequentially through all High School units of the language.

The four Languages’ Celebration Days (each including a Food Fair and a cultural activity), as well as the Year 7 Global Perspective Days, are annual highlights of the Year 7 and 8 Languages programs.

Successful completion of a Languages course in the High School prepares students for further study of the language in Year 11 and/or Year 12. Students should also note that a second language is a compulsory subject in the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which is offered in Years 11 and 12 as an alternative to the Tasmanian Certificate of Education.

The study of Languages is strongly encouraged as an essential part of a broad and balanced education for all students. Not only do students gain a greater awareness of the language and culture of others but their understanding of their own language and its place in the world is enhanced. Study of a language is also a valuable tool for the support of a student’s literacy skills.

In addition to the classroom Languages experience, the School has ‘sister-school’ and exchange relationships with schools in China, Japan and Germany. The school is in the process of establishing a new ‘sister-school’ relationship with a school in France. Students have many opportunities to engage with students from our respective sister schools and hosting opportunities also promote fantastic cultural interaction and cross-cultural understanding. Please note that international travel and exchanges are not currently planned for 2023 in light of travel restrictions and health advice.

Year 7 Languages and Year 8 Electives

Please see the descriptions of these subjects on the following pages: