LOTE – Language Other Than English
Burnside Primary School celebrates learning through our French Programme which encourages students to speak the language and become familiar with Francophone culture. Our AIM (Accelerative Integrated Method) methodology uses a kinaesthetic play-based approach to the acquisition of vocabulary, enabling children to speak more easily and earlier than using traditional methods.
Each class participates a one hour lesson once a week which incorporates art, design, songs, internet clips, games and dance to enhance language and cultural learning.
Our annual French Week engages R-6 students with fun incursions and special class activities. Teachers and students dress up in French colours and outfits. Celebrations also include events such as:
Mardi Gras – Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day
La Fete Nationale – 14 juillet/Bastille Day
Paques – Easter
Tour de France
La Fete des Meres/Peres – Mother’s & Father’s Day
Noel
Why learn languages other than English?
Languages education is an investment in our global future. It enhances student’s social, cognitive and intellectual potential. Research has shown that bilingual students develop higher order problem solving skills and demonstrate greater flexibility of approach to ideas as well as a greater capacity for lateral thought.
Learning languages within the context of a culturally inclusive curriculum enables students to view the world form a broader perspective. It promotes social cohesion, cross cultural understanding and harmony and provides opportunities to develop positive attitudes to diversity. It widens students’ post-school options both in the domestic and global context. Australia’s multilingual society offers bilingual people opportunities working in areas such as law, medicine, finance, politics, science and the arts.
Why learn French?
French is a world language, spoken in 44 countries. It is a language of diplomacy in organisations such as the United Nations, International Red Cross and the Olympic Games. French opens the door to an exchange of knowledge and culture in the fields of science, technology, medicine, biotechnology, agriculture, viticulture, cosmetics fashion, gastronomy and the arts. Many French-speaking people from around the world have made their home in Australia. French companies operating in Australia now employ thousands of people. Travel to mainland France and closer French-speaking places such as New Caledonia is a real incentive for learning the language.
