LOTE

LOTE (Language Other than English) Years Prep–Five

Indonesia today, with an estimated population of at least 280 million as at 2025, is set to be a fast-growing country in terms of culture and economy. A report by PwC states that Indonesia could grow to be the 5th largest economy by 2030 and 4th by 2050. This growth is driven by factors like a rising middle class, a large and youthful population, and increasing digitalization.

The study of LOTE is increasingly important in the way it improves the knowledge of one’s own language and expands one’s world view, limiting the barriers between people. Learning a foreign language leads to an appreciation of cultural diversity, and an interest and understanding of the different ways in which others live. A new and engaging LOTE Indonesian program helps students to understand and communicate in the language, seek future wider job opportunities, and build personal relationships with the rest of the world.

As our students transition through each year of learning Indonesian, they are exposed to new ways of thinking and have the opportunities to discover new concepts and ideas, as well as different cultures and histories. By providing opportunities to communicate with and about others, students can make links to themselves and their lifestyles and, in turn, learn to appreciate not only another language but a different way of life.

The Prep to Year 5 LOTE Indonesian program at Yarrawonga College P–12 is based around three main ideas:

• • Language skills
  • Cultural content
  • Highly motivational language activities

Language skills, whilst taught at different levels, give all students a common base in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These will assist students to enjoy presentations, sing Indonesian songs, view Indonesian films or performances, and participate in special activities and events.

As language and culture can’t be separated, each unit of work integrates both aspects to give students a positive feel for Indonesia and enable them to make connections between Indonesian and English, as well as spark interesting discussions and further research on Indonesian traditions, beliefs, and creative activities such as painting, music, cooking, sport, or games.

The merits of all activities are measured on the elements of fun and enjoyment, active involvement, and success. The LOTE Indonesian program provides students with the necessary experiences and knowledge to practise and attempt to use the language, as they move through our college.