
Students at Aranmore are offered the opportunity to study a Language Other Than English. Languages currently being taught at Aranmore are French and Italian. The classes are taught by experienced and well- travelled teachers who present a variety of methods to engage student’s interest and learning. Students have the opportunity to learn to effectively communicate in their chosen LOTE through a variety of experiences.
The principal focus areas of language learning are listening, speaking, reading and writing.
At Aranmore we embrace the Curriculum Framework’s philosophy and in Years Eight to Ten, offer programs that address students' interests through use of technology and relevant learning material. All students in Year Eight study French: many then choose to continue in subsequent years.
In Years Eleven and Twelve our programs are in line with the Curriculum Council’s syllabus. At Year Twelve level, students are able to converse quite confidently on a range of topics and are well prepared for their TEE exams. While most students will sit the LOTE TEE exams, some of our students complete their language study for relevant TAFE entry points. Students in Years Ten to Twelve participate in external National and State language examinations, namely the All Languages Certificates, the Alliance Francaise exam and the Dante Alighieri exam.
In the LOTE Department, trips to French-speaking Reunion Island are offered every year and to Italy in alternate years. All LOTE students from Years Ten and Eleven are encouraged to participate.
Language learning is not just about textbooks and repeating set vocabulary. It is also about experiencing a cultural awareness and love for that country. To enhance their interest and knowledge of the country where their LOTE is spoken, many activities are organised throughout the year for students including excursions that will develop their cultural awareness for their LOTE. LOTE WEEK is also organised every year by the LOTE staff to enhance and promote the learning of a language other than English.