LOTE

Welcome to our Auslan (Australian Sign Language) LOTE program at Montrose Primary School! Our program is designed for students from Foundation to Grade 6, providing a unique and enriching language learning experience that extends beyond spoken languages.

Why Auslan?

Auslan is the native language of the Australian Deaf community and is a visual-gestural language with its own grammar and syntax. Learning Auslan not only broadens students' communication skills but also fosters inclusivity, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the diverse ways people interact.

Program Highlights:

• Foundation to Grade 6 Curriculum: Our comprehensive curriculum is tailored to each year level, ensuring age-appropriate and engaging lessons that build on students' skills progressively.
• Interactive Learning: Students engage in a variety of hands-on activities, games, and visual aids to practice signing in a fun and interactive environment.
• Cultural Immersion: The program includes learning about Deaf culture, history, and the significance of Auslan in the Australian Deaf community, promoting cultural awareness and respect.
• Communication Skills: Through regular practice, students develop their ability to communicate effectively in Auslan, enhancing their non-verbal communication skills and cognitive abilities.
• Inclusivity and Empathy: Learning Auslan encourages students to appreciate and understand the experiences of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, fostering a more inclusive school community.

What Students Will Learn:

• Basic Vocabulary and Phrases: Introduction to common signs, everyday vocabulary, and simple phrases used in daily conversations.
• Finger Spelling: Practice finger spelling the alphabet and understanding how it integrates with Auslan communication.
• Grammar and Structure: Understanding the unique grammar and sentence structure of Auslan, which differs from English.
• Conversational Skills: Engaging in basic conversations, asking and answering questions, and expressing emotions and ideas in Auslan.
• Storytelling and Songs: Learning to sign stories and songs, enhancing both language skills and creative expression. Our students often perform a song they have learnt to sing/sign, at assemblies.

Program Benefits:

• Enhanced Communication: Students gain a new mode of communication that can be used with Deaf individuals and in various aspects of life.
• Cognitive Development: Learning a visual language like Auslan supports cognitive development, including spatial awareness and memory.
• Social Skills: The program encourages teamwork, collaboration, and social interaction among students.
• Cultural Awareness: Students develop an appreciation for linguistic and cultural diversity, which is essential in our multicultural society.

Join us at Montrose Primary School as we embark on this exciting journey of language learning through Auslan. Together, we will build bridges of communication and understanding, making our school community a more inclusive and connected place for everyone.