Moving between countries, cultures
and languages has become more commonplace because of globalisation,
increased ease of travel and advanced information and communication
technologies. High quality education in languages enables students to
respond positively to the opportunities and challenges of their rapidly
changing world.
The study of languages provides opportunities for students to become
more accepting of diversity, more respectful of others and more aware of
their place in the international community.
Contemporary research and practice have established a clear link
between the learning of languages and improved literacy skills for both
background speakers and second language learners. Even limited
experience of the learning of languages is shown to increase
metalinguistic awareness and enhance general cognitive development
Course Content
In Junior Japanese, our course covers
the 4 core skills of language learning; listening, speaking, reading and
writing, as well as cultural components that as a whole should enable
students to become confident language learners. Lessons and activities
for each skill area are made as enjoyable and motivational as possible.
Students are encouraged to choose Japanese at Year 9 level to
support study at Year 10 level.
Our junior course is split over 1 semester in both year 7 and 8. We cover the following aspects and functions in Japanese language:
Year 7
Introduction to the 3 Japanese scripts both hand-written and digital,
numbers, dates, ages and birthdays. How to introduce / profile yourself
including cultural considerations. Spoken and written. Talking about
likes and dislikes, hobbies and favourite things. Introduction to
adjectives.
Year 8
Talking about families and introducing other people. Days of the week
and daily activities. Talking about food, restaurant roleplay, ordering
and responding.Seasons and festivals.
Year 9 Topics
- Self-introduction (review)
- Family
- Japanese homes
- Daily life
- School in Japan
- Japanese Celebrations
Special features
- Sushi Day- making and designing sushi in school
- Celebrating Japanese festivals
- Wearing Japanese kimono
- Japanese music, film and Anime
Careers
- Immigration Officer
- Flight Attendant
- Linguist
- Interpreter
- Journalist
- Travel Consultant
- Tour Guide
Having an additional language can make a huge difference to a
candidate when it comes to employability. For some roles, it is a
deal-breaker and without fluency in the required additional language,
you can’t even be considered. For other roles, an additional language
can give you a significant advantage over other applicants, particularly
if the company has international dealings or clients .Depending on the
role it can double your chances - if not more! Global organisations
always look favourably on candidates with a second language because
these individuals can be looked upon to be the link between regional
offices, and ensure a good flow of communication. This also means you
can get exposure to projects that you wouldn’t normally be involved in,
as you may be required to translate and then add further input!
Additionally, any companies with international clients will require
candidates with language skills to ensure their clients are given the
best possible service. International clients will report a far stronger
service if you can speak to them in their language. It really shows a
willingness to go the extra mile, and adds reliability.
Any roles where travel is involved will also lean towards candidates
with strong language capabilities. In short, having an additional
language can really elevate your career!