Lote - 2nd Languages

There are two types of LOTE (Languages Other than English) courses:

LOTE first language (advanced/native speakers’) please see other page on the sidebar

LOTE second language (taught foreign language)

LOTE second language courses

The teaching of LOTE is a core element of the curriculum. The ideas of the improvement of communication skills and the propagation of greater understanding of other cultures are central to the aims of the UWC movement.

Language teaching has moved on from the traditional ideas of teaching grammar in isolation, now focusing on realistic language functions such as asking for tickets at a station or ordering a drink in a café. The grammatical notions of the language are presented in a meaningful context. The four skills of language (listening, speaking, reading and writing) are taught in an integrated way, so that grammatical concepts act as a reinforcement of vocabulary learnt. Cultural aspects are also taught so that students gain more understanding of the people who live where the languages are spoken.

Topics and notions covered in Middle School LOTE courses:

Beginners’ courses:

Introductions, family life, school, daily routine, descriptions, hobbies and clothes

Continuation courses:

Education, getting around, leisure, celebrations, health and communications using technology

For the continuation courses, students are expected to have basic knowledge of the language; this usually means at least one year’s previous study of the language is required.

In Chinese, students are expected to write a certain number of Chinese characters correctly. A more detailed list of the topics and grammatical notions covered is available from the Head of Subject. In French, German and Spanish, a variety of tenses are covered during Grade 8. A more detailed list of the topics covered is available from the relevant Head of Subject.

Second languages available in Grade 6

• Continuation and Beginners’ Chinese
• Continuation and Beginners’ French
• Continuation Spanish