Korean Language
In NSW high schools, languages is a key learning area and an essential tool for life in the 21st Century. Learning languages provides the opportunity for students to engage with the linguistic and cultural diversity of the world and its peoples. Students broaden their horizons in relation to personal, social, cultural and employment opportunities in an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world.
At Wollumbin High School, Year 7 students undertake a mandatory 100 hours with the study of Korean language and culture. Korea is one of Australia’s significant Asian neighbours, and with the rapidly growing interest in Korean culture across the world, the number of people learning Korean is also increasing in many countries. Through learning the Korean language, students engage with modern Korea, including popular culture as well as the rich cultural tradition of this part of Asia.
To support our studies of Korean we have developed rich relationships between students and teachers connected to schools in various parts of South Korea. Our students are also provided with the opportunity of engaging in the weekly Korean club and video conferencing classroom experiences with Korea. These opportunities are particularly valuable in developing the language skills of our students.
Project based learning
During the year in Korean, students will use Project Based Learning. Contemporary research shows that this approach motivates students to gain knowledge which they remember for longer. Projects give students the chance to apply the skills they learn in school to personally relevant and real-world situations. The students also learn skills in project based learning such as how to think critically, solve problems, work in teams and make presentations. These skills will help students succeed in the future, both in school and in today’s work world.
The rich linguistic and cultural diversity of NSW, to which Korean-speaking communities contribute significantly, provides an educational environment where the study of languages and cultures is valued as a unique and integral part of the K–10 curriculum.
Below is the generic information about the study of languages as provided by the NSW Department of Education.
In NSW high schools, languages is a key learning area.
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.
The study of a language is compulsory for 100 hours in one continuous school year from Year 7 to Year 10, but preferably in Years 7 or 8.
In Years 11 and 12, NSW schools offer a wide variety of languages, catering for beginning students to background speakers.