Scotch College

SCOTCH COLLEGE JUNIOR SCHOOL LOTE  PROGRAM

In 1921, the philosopher Wittgenstein said: “ The limits of my language are the limits of my world”. If he means by this that our understanding of the world is set by the limits of our language, then it is vital that we can expand our students’ language if we are interested in their learning and their growth as individuals.

Rationale
Learning another language broadens a student’s horizons. Understandings grow with regards to their relationships with the rest of the world. Students are exposed to new ways of thinking and discover new concepts and ideas as well as different cultures and histories. By providing opportunities to communicate with and about others, students are able to make links to define themselves, to understand and to use their own language better.

Methodology
The LOTE program at Scotch College is based around four main principles:
- Whole School Themes
- Rich Cultural Content
- Senior Primary leadership
- Highly motivational activities

Whole school themes, whilst taught at different levels give all students a common language base, which assist them to understand and enjoy presentations, performances or special activities and events.

As a language and culture can’t be separated each unit of work will integrate unique and authentic aspects to give students a positive feel for Germany and German speaking countries as well as spark interesting discussions and further research.

Older learners are provided with a real sense of ownership and a feeling of empowerment
as they are encouraged to take on leading roles, to be involved in competitions, performances and the planning of cultural events.

The merits of all activities are measured on the elements of fun and enjoyment, active involvement and success providing the students with the necessary experiences to practise and to want to use the language.

Whole School Theme
Spass mit Tierchen!

With the Café closed for renovations this year it is time to relax and have some fun. This 

term will be spent producing and playing games around the topic of animals and family pets. 
Younger students will undertake a detailed study of ‘Die drei kleinen Schweinchen’ (the three 
little pigs) and older students will produce a traditional card game to reinforce a large variety of 
animals as well as preparing to sustain a simple conversation about their family or dream pet.

Did you know?

*There are over 23 million pets in Germany. Most of them are allowed into shops, cafes
  and other public places.

*There is a dog tax in Germany, your dog must be micro-chipped and you must have
  valid insurance, including third party liability. Dogs must also be kept on a lead in parks
  and are not allowed in playgrounds or cemeteries.
     
*According to the American Kennel Club, the German shepherd breed of dog was first
  created in Germany in 1899. The breed was a mix of herding and farm dogs. The
  versatility of this Shepherd was soon obvious as it was used by the German army in
  World War I. The Alsatian was introduced into the U.S. and British Commonwealth by
  returning Allied soldiers. This Shepherd eventually became an outstanding guard dog,
  ‘Seeing Eye’ dog, police and military dog, search and rescue dog, bomb and narcotics
  detection dog, and, of course, family pet.

*In Germany there are over 250 zoo’s, animal and wildlife parks. One of the biggest is
   the ‘Berliner Zoo’ with 160 ha