Language instruction at Monbulk College puts equal importance on intercultural awareness of communities and rigorous academic progression through the essential skill areas of Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking of the target language in preparation for the VCAA prescribed VCE Second Language courses.

Monbulk College believes that as the process of globalisation continues and the information revolution picks up speed, foreign language proficiency will become more, rather than less relevant for our future citizens.

The college is fully supportive of the promotion of its Japanese Language program and see the benefits of learning languages as:

• encouraging cultural awareness, tolerance and understanding
• enhancing literacy skills of ALL learners
• building confidence
• teaching students to be thinkers and problem-solvers
• enhancing future job opportunities as well as expanding life opportunities and experiences

Students experience the language and culture Japanese at Year 7-8, before following through to the senior years as an elective. Monbulk College students enjoy student exchange programs with Sister School, Ujiyamada Commercial High School in Japan. Each year a group of students travel to Japan to experience the language and culture first hand. Learning a second language allows students to develop intercultural and global communication skills.

By the end of Year 12, students should have developed an increased competence in communicating in Japanese. Objectives for the student are to understand oral interaction by a native speaker, to express ideas orally on topics within her/his experience, to read with comprehension and to write compositions. Students gain an appreciation and increased understanding of foreign cultures.

Parents can play a vital role in their child’s learning of a language. There are many ways to support and encourage students at home in order to further their progress. If any parent or guardian is looking for ideas or advice in this regard, please don’t hesitate to contact the Languages staff at the college