“We are already seeing growth in self-development, in terms of taking risks with expressing opinion, reflecting on learning & questioning current global issues.” Imma Buono, Primary Languages teacher, Northern Beaches Christian School Imma has been a Languages teacher for 14 years. She brings to this role many years of experience as a Primary and Early Childhood educator and, with her personal love of creative arts, she has always enriched her language program by integrating culture and the Arts. Over a coffee at the end of last year we discussed how she was thinking through a radically different approach. As she recalls: “I truly wanted it to be more than just language acquisition. I've now embarked on a journey with the students on what it means to be a global citizen.” In collaboration with classroom teachers at NBCS, Imma has developed a Global & Cultural Literacy program which aims to foster an attitude of empathy and understanding; knowing who our neighbours are and developing a deeper knowledge of the cultural groups represented. This innovative program incorporates the Arts, Geography and Languages and has so far been introduced in Years K-4. “Whether it is learning a new language, trying a new way of making art, moving our body to the music and rhythms of other cultures or seeing how some children around the world get to school each day, the Global & Cultural Literacy program has sparked curiosity and wonder in our students. As the year progresses that initial spark is being fanned into flame as they recognise their potential to contribute to our global community. The prayer flags (above and below) came out of our ‘head, heart, hand’ approach to this program. They are in response to a session about the global issue of refugees." “I'm hoping over time we will see in our students a growth in empathy, an awareness of other children’s realities around the world, a hunger for global cultural knowledge, intrinsically motivated to pursue language learning, with a genuine understanding that we can make a difference in this world- no matter what age we are.
As we grow the traits of global citizenship in our students we look to our role model Jesus and the Scripture: ‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbour as yourself.’ Matthew 22:36-40.” Libby Colla
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorHello, I'm Libby. Categories
All
Let's keep in touch.
Subscribe |