At Woonona High School all Year 7 students study Japanese for 100 hours throughout the year. Japanese is offered to HSC level and other languages may be studied by distance education, where students are supervised and supported by the Language teacher.
The study of Japanese provides access to the language and culture of one of the global community's most technologically advanced societies and economies. It also introduces students to an important part of the rich cultural tradition of East Asia. Through experience of the Japanese language system and cultural history, students gain valuable perspectives on the art, music, customs, beliefs, and ways of thinking of Japanese people.
The use of online and internet resources is an integral part of the teaching and learning of languages. Students will develop communication skills and gain insights into the relationship between language and culture, leading to lifelong personal, educational and vocational benefits.
Japanese has been identified as one of the priority languages in the Asia-Pacific region to be taught in Australian schools, especially due to its global position. Students will develop the knowledge, understanding and the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills necessary for effective interaction in Japanese.
There are sister city agreements between the two governments, providing Australian students with opportunities to host Japanese students and to visit and study in Japan.
