Grammar Gazette- Issue 1, 2012

European languages

Bringing these ‘distant’ languages into the lives of our students involves a multi-dimensional approach. As with any language learning, words form only part of the story. Cultural elements play a key role in communication. This may include learning the French art of baguette making and the decoration of traditional German gingerbread houses in Year 8 and, in later years, appreciating contemporary music, film and television segments via the internet. Such segments reflect common issues across our cultures and provide contexts and language for discussion. Regular visits to and from our French and German affiliate schools personalise the language learning even further. The classical separation of languages and culture by distance is no longer relevant in a world in which communication and engagement have gone beyond geographical boundaries and in which leisure and employment play out in many forms. Therefore, the raison d’être for the School’s students to learn the languages of our European neighbours is as resonant today as it was in 1875. Culture is embedded in language and the Asian language curriculums are enriched with a diverse range of cultural activities which allow the girls to practise their language in authentic contexts. These learning experiences include accessing popular media and entertainment, communicating with other students using a variety of current technologies, observing important cultural festivals and annual events, cooking and food tasting, opportunities to dress in traditional clothing, visits to restaurants and temples, virtual tours, and interaction with students from our affiliate schools. Asian language students are invited to venture outside of their comfort zone and try new things, take risks and overcome challenges in their language learning. The inherent differences between Australian, Japanese and Chinese cultures mean that the girls are compelled to compare, question and come to appreciate an alternative way of living and viewing the world. The quest to understand others develops their ability to move between cultures as a global citizen. Tutors provide an authentic link with the language and culture within the classroom allowing for more informal discussions with students as to what it is to be Japanese, German, French or Chinese. For teachers, having an assistant language tutor provides the opportunity to keep abreast of the societal changes in the culture and its impact on the language itself. fine arts, mixed with the modern phenomena of manga, animation, ‘cute culture’ and cutting edge technologies.

When Brisbane Girls Grammar School opened its gates in 1875, French and German were among the earliest subject offerings. This made sense with the colonial settlement’s close links to Europe. But why in the twenty-first century do we continue to offer languages that are so far beyond of our geographical zone? As a nation settled largely by Europeans, this continues to be part of our heritage and it is also testament to the cultural and intellectual contributions of France and Germany. The early German settlers brought their vines, art and science, and the French, who missed raising their flag on our shores by just three days, brought film, literature, philosophy and art.

Asian languages

In the world of globalisation and new technologies, acquiring intercultural competence and skills in Asian languages has never been more relevant. China and Japan are Australia’s two leading economic trading partners. In more recent times, the relationships between our countries have strengthened and expanded beyond strong commercial links to other spheres such as culture, tourism and scientific cooperation. Japan and China are culturally rich countries which offer a fascinating combination of ancient traditions, modern technology and popular culture. Through studying these languages, our students are opened to a world of elaborate ceremonies, colourful festivals, exotic foods and ancient The School’s commitment to languages is supported with the provision of assistant language tutors in each of the languages classes. Language students in all year levels are able to have regular interaction with a native speaker assistant. These tutors provide an invaluable resource for both students and teachers alike. For students there is the opportunity to communicate in the language, practise and master the language structures and forms covered in class. Assistant language tutors

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