In NSW primary schools, the study of a language is optional.
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.
At Northbridge, all students from Kindergarten to Year 6 enjoy learning Japanese language and culture.
Our specialist Japanese teacher is a Japanese native speaker and has over 20 years’ teaching experience. We incorporate strategies such Childhood Language Acquisition, Immersion (using Japanese language as much as possible) and Differentiation (catering for the different needs of mainstream students and the needs of experienced students in Japanese).
Students enjoy cultural activities and celebrations including Origami, making sushi, Tanzaku wishes, Children's Day and Tanabata. Year 6 students visit the Nihongo Tanken Japansese Language Centre every year.
Tips for Bilingualism
‘Translanguaging is the practice of multilingual speakers moving easily back and forth across their entire linguistic repertoire to engage in interactive meaning-making processes.’ (Oliver et al. 2020)
Student wellbeing and educational outcomes improve when students have opportunities to use their home language and make connections with existing cultural knowledge. Students should be encouraged to continue to develop proficiency in their first language, as this will support their learning of the target language. Opportunities to make connections between their home language, the target language and Standard Australian English will enhance their language learning. (Resource: NESA PL / Modern Languages K-10 / EAL/D Students)
Click the below link to read "Modern Languages K-10 Parent and Carer Guide K-6" (by NSW Education Standards Authority):
modern-languages-k-10-2022-parent-and-carer-guide-k-6
