The Year 2’s have been learning about how to greet someone at different times of the day. They learnt a ‘Buenas Tardes’ (Good Afternoon) song. They were ‘fantastico’ at their singing!
Please enjoy watching them ‘cantando’ (singing) the ‘cancion’ (song).
‘A multitude of research shows that learning a new language offers many rewards.’
Dr Michiko Weinmann and Dr Ruth Arber,
Deakin University
This week with the students we have been discussing the benefits of learning a second language. Students have been engaging in an inquiry looking at the positives of learning a second language and presenting their finds to the class.
Here are some of the information they presented:
There are many benefits to learning another language and being multilingual. The reality is that the majority of people worldwide speak and study several languages and it’s just a part of life. The data suggests there are more first language speakers of Chinese and Spanish than of English.
We are already globally connected in so many ways, linguistically, culturally and spatially through popular culture – think international films, manga comics, Latin dancing, travel, social media, and cuisine – to assume that someone only speaks one language or only has one culture is not representative of the globalised world we live in.
What are the benefits of learning a new language?
When your brain has to switch between speech, writing and structure, you become a better multi-tasker and improve your memory and attention span. You also become a better traveller – locals love it when you make the effort to have a conversation in their language.
Languages help you advance your career by making you stand out and giving you global mobility – opportunities open up for employment and an international career around the world. Employers today are looking for well-rounded employees who are global citizens and have an understanding of other cultures. Being able to speak another language certainly ticks those boxes.
When we learn languages it’s more than just words, we learn about people, cultures and history – and see the world through other people’s eyes. It’s never too late to start learning a language!
Languages are powerful and in demand, and can take you around the world volunteering and travelling. Let’s not forget the main benefit – learning a language is a lot of fun!
Expand your horizons and study a language today!
In 2018, the official Chinese and Vietnamese New Year celebrations will commence on the 16th Febrero, and continue through to 2 Marzo. Many festivals and events will take place throughout this time to mark the beginning of the Año del Perro, (Year of the Dog). Opening students to celebrations and traditions from around the world is a powerful way to build their cultural understanding and develop their respect for others.
Año del Perro 2018 – Year of the Dog 2018
Felicidades en el nuevo año lunar bajo el signo del perro
During Weeks 2 and 3, students have been examining the cultural traditions of Vietnamese and Chinese New Year with a Spanish twist.
The Receptions and Year 1’s have been investigating El Baile de el Dragon (The Dragon Dance). They discussed what they liked about the baile (dance) and their experiences at the assembly.
Nine Asian countries celebrate the Lunary New Year. As part of the celebrations the year 2’s had a lot of fun learning about Chinese and Vietnamese New Year. The Year 2’s really enjoyed making Dragon y Perro masks for Chinese and Vietnamese New Year.
Señora Opazo and Señora Nuñez welcome you back to Holy Family Catholic School, 2018, for another exciting year of Español – Spanish.
We are looking forward to seeing you all this year. Please do not hesitate to visit our rooms to view the amazing learning going on!
As you know Spanish is widely spoken throughout the global community.
For Harmony Day students in Year 2 performed a Flamenco Dance at the assembly. It was a great effort by all the students involved. We want to give a big “Gracias” (thank you) to Louisa who organised the choreography. Here are some photos of the children learning the flamenco.
The Year 2 Spanish students combined with the Music students to create a dance and song using Spanish words. It was a great effort by the students! Please enjoy their “hermosa presentacion”
El Dia de los Muertos — The Day of the Dead
On November 1st and 2nd The Day of the Dead – El Dia de los Muertos – is celebrated in Mexico and other parts of Latin America. During Spanish students have been learning about the traditional holiday where family and friends pray for and remember those close to them who have passed away. Students have participated in various activities to commemorate this special cultural event. It is a colourful and joyful occasion celebrated by more and more people around the world.
The Olympics are a great opportunity to celebrate the world around us. Over 200 countries will compete in the 2016 Rio Summer Olympic Games, providing an amazing display of culture and diversity. It is an occasion for global communities to unite and celebrate an amazing event. For children, it is an opportunity to experience the global event and foster an appreciation for the atmosphere of cultural diversity. In Spanish, we have been introducing our students in a wide array of cultural experiences.
Señora Opazo has been playing some “juegos de numeros” (number games) with the Year 3/4’s. It has been lots of excitement and fun!! Fantastico!!
