As 2018 comes closer to the end, I reflect on the very busy year it has been for the Italian learning program. We commenced the year with a new Australian Curriculum for Languages and the introduction of compulsory second language learning for all students in Year 3. With a curriculum that outlines content to be taught over two hours per week and only 50 minutes per week to deliver it, it has been necessary to work at an extraordinary pace. I have been incredibly impressed by the resilience of children across all levels to cope with this demanding expectation. Each and every student has given of themselves to the very best of their ability, and as such, they should be extremely proud of their efforts.
Highlights for 2018 include:
The Australian/Italian E-Pals initiative
During a trip to Italy last year, I was able to establish a relationship with two primary schools within a network of schools in the North of Italy. Children from Rooms 17 and 12 have exchanged letters with students within Istituto Comprensivo, Baveno informing them of Christmas traditions, as well as describing a little about themselves. It is anticipated this initiative will expand in 2019 with more communication and hopefully including more classes in this wonderful opportunity.
The first Italian Assembly during my time at Wattle Grove in Term 3. Children from Year 1 to Year 6 show-cased a little of what they had been learning through music. Learning a language through music assists immensely with acquisition and retention of vocabulary and grammar patterns. All children sang with energy and passion and demonstrated the notion of acquiring a language through repeated exposure and specific context.
Children in the Mini Mac class were invited to enter a poster competition through the Italo-Australian Welfare and Cultural Centre. It was very exciting for Shreya, Joella, Daniel, Kayla and Anjelina who were all selected as finalists.
Earlier in Term 4, Italian was represented through the performance of the pantomime Cenerentola (see previous post) at the Arts Festival evening in Week 3. Several children were invited to perform alongside two very special (albeit not so attractive), guest teachers. The support and good humour of Mr. Sherlock and Mr. Eaves who dressed up as the Ugly Stepsisters was gratefully appreciated as they pranced around the stage in stunning (or should I write, ridiculous) frocks.
Personally, I feel very fortunate and excited to be travelling to Italy at the end of the year. During a 3 and a half week period, I will be extending my language skills through a two week program in Milan. As well, I aim to visit the two schools for which I made a connection with earlier in the year in the beautiful town of Baveno that lies on Lago Maggiore in the North of Italy. I encourage all my students to check the Italian Blog during January as I hope to be posting photographs and a brief travel log during my time. Until then...auguro a tutti voi e alle vostre famiglie una vacanza felice e sicura e un Natale tranquillo. I wish you all and your families a happy and safe holiday and a peaceful Christmas.
Signora Isaia
