Spanish

Watch now: To find out more about this curriculum area, watch ‘Understanding the Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0, Spanish’ on the Resources page.

Rationale and Aims

Rationale

Communication is a human imperative. Communication in Spanish 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 Spanish 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 Spanish 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. 

Spanish is the official language of Spain and an official language in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay and Venezuela. It is also one of the official languages of the European Union and the United Nations. Spanish is widely spoken in communities throughout the world, including Andorra, Belize, Gibraltar and the United States. Usage of the Spanish language naturally varies across countries and communities; these regional differences make the language richer. 

The ongoing linguistic and cultural influence of Spanish-speaking communities can be seen globally in areas such as architecture, film, art, cuisine, dance, literature and music. This influence is evident in Australian society today. 

Spanish-speaking migrants have made a significant contribution to shaping multicultural Australia. Their patterns of migration have been influenced by a variety of factors, including economic and political circumstances, interest in tertiary education, and employment opportunities presented by trade agreements in sectors such as agriculture, mining and technology. The Spanish language has been taught in Victorian schools and universities since the 1970s. 

Learning Spanish enhances students’ understanding of their own language(s) and develops their appreciation of the language and cultures of Spanish-speaking communities. It also enriches travel experiences, increases employment opportunities and promotes understanding of diverse attitudes, beliefs and values. 

Learning Spanish provides opportunities for students to engage socially, culturally and economically in many domains, such as business, trade, science, law, education, tourism, diplomacy, international relations, health and communications.  

Aims 

The 4 interrelated aims of the Spanish language curriculum are to develop knowledge, understanding and skills to ensure students: 

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