Foreign languages are imperative in developing students as global citizens to compete in the global job market. In addition to increasing employment prospects, studying a foreign language broadens a student’s perspective of the world, improves literacy skills, and develops an appreciation of other cultures.

All Year 7 students will study either French: Second Language or Japanese: Second Language for the year and will continue to study that language until the end of Year 8. From Year 9 the study of languages is optional. As both languages are offered as WACE ATAR Courses, students can pursue them through to Year 12. During that time, they will have the opportunity to take part in the bi-annual immersion tour to France or the exchange trip to Fukui, Japan.

The Western Australian Curriculum: Languages has been organised into two interrelated strands with a set of sub strands within.

Communicating: focuses on students using the language to communicate in different contexts.

Sub strands:

• Socialising
• Informing
• Creating
• Translating
• Reflecting 

Understanding: focuses on students analysing and understanding language and culture to interpret and shape meaning.

Sub strands:

• Systems of language
• Language variation and change
• The role of language and culture

Japanese: Second Language
Japanese is offered as a beginner course in Year 7 following the Year 7 to Year 10 Sequence. In Year 7 students will learn to communicate information about self, family and friends, and interests.

Assessment
Students will be assessed using a range of formative and summative assessments through which they will be given opportunities to communicate in and demonstrate their understanding of the language. Assessments typically comprise listening, reading and viewing, writing and speaking activities.