Did you know that French is spoken in more than 40 countries across the world? So many of our everyday words come from French like croissant, café, cul-de-sac and theatre. Learning a language can lead to more effective thinking skills. It also gives students an opportunity to examine their own language. French is a global language and is shared by many cultures. Consequently, students will have many opportunities to enhance their intercultural understanding.
We celebrate French Cultural Day in Term 3 each year. Students and staff have the opportunity to dress up as something French such as a famous person, a building, a food item or in the French colours.
Students in years 3-6 participate in the French program. All classes have one lesson per week.
Year 3
Year 3 students begin to engage with French language and culture. The focus is on listening and speaking activities such as singing songs, learning rhymes and playing games, as well as cultural activities. These activities are complemented with simple writing activities such as puzzles and labelling activities. Students will learn how to talk about themselves, their family and toys.
Year 4
In year 4, students build upon language acquired in year 3. The focus remains on listening and speaking activities, however, students start to write short sentences about their personal world, such as describing their bedrooms. They also start to compare aspects of their personal world, such as school, with those of children in French-speaking countries. They will also start to become aware that French is a global language.
Year 5
This year's year 5 classes started French in year 4. Students will continue to enhance their listening and speaking skills as well as prepare short presentations for the class. They will develop their intercultural understanding as they compare life in Australia with life in countries where French is spoken. Students will learn about school and celebrations.
Year 6
This year's year 6 classes started French in year 5. Year 6 students will participate in a variety of activities including interviewing each other, preparing simple food items, writing postcards and creating and describing an emoji. Students will continue to reflect upon their own culture and compare it with life in French-speaking countries.