Roman Alphabet Languages

Rationale and Aims

Rationale

The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority has developed a curriculum for languages that use the Roman alphabet. This curriculum will allow Victorian schools to offer programs in Roman alphabet languages for which there is no specific curriculum available. Please note, it is not possible to give examples that will illustrate every Roman alphabet language. Users should select the relevant language elements in the generic examples presented in the elaborations and tailor the learning for the target language.

Communication is a human imperative. Communication in a Roman alphabet language involves interaction to convey meaning, as well as imagination, creativity and a broad understanding of ourselves and others. Language learning provides the opportunity for students to engage with the linguistic and cultural diversity of the world and its peoples, and to reflect on their experience in various aspects of social life, including their own participation and ways of being in the world.

Learning a language in addition to English broadens students’ horizons in relation to the personal, social, cultural and employment opportunities that an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world can offer. The interdependence of countries and communities means people in all spheres of life are required to negotiate experiences and meanings across languages and cultures. A capability solely in English, despite its status as a world language, can limit global opportunities. A bilingual or plurilingual capability is the norm in many parts of the world.

Learning a language in addition to English develops learners’:

• communication skills
• literacy skills in their first and additional languages
• intercultural capabilities
• understanding of, and respect for, diversity and difference, and openness to different experiences and perspectives
• understanding and appreciation of how culture shapes worldviews, and extends their understanding of themselves, and their own heritage, values, culture and identity
• critical and creative thinking.

Learning a language in addition to English also provides opportunities for students to engage socially, culturally and economically in a variety of domains, which may include business, trade, technology, science, law, education, tourism, diplomacy, international relations, health and communications.

Aims

The 4 interrelated aims of the Roman Alphabet Languages curriculum are to develop knowledge, understanding and skills to ensure students:

• communicate in the target language
• understand the relationship between language and culture
• develop intercultural capabilities
• understand themselves as communicators.