Languages at Mac.Rob | Term 3 Update.
Japanese Language Model UN.
On July 22nd, twenty VCE and IB Japanese Language students had the opportunity to participate in a Japanese Model UN. We were tasked with researching, collaborating and speaking in Japanese about Hear Our Voice: Recognising the Rights of Indigenous Peoples for our delegate country.
At first, speaking Japanese in front of other schools seemed daunting, but after persevering through prepared and impromptu discussions, it turned out to be a truly rewarding experience for all of us involved.
As the day continued we presented our position statements, discussed and questioned amendments to the proposal, and voted on a final outcome. Personally, our highlight was the unmoderated caucus, where we were able to interact and further learn about other countries and their different perspectives on the issue. Moreover, being able to interact with new people was a refreshing way for us to grow as Japanese learners, and build connections with like-minded Japanese learners.
We are really fortunate to have been able to practise our Japanese vocabulary and grammar in a more dynamic and high stakes environment, and are looking forward to continuing our Japanese language journey through exciting opportunities in the future! We highly encourage future students to participate in this great opportunity if they get the chance.
We would also like to thank everyone involved - the students for their keen participation, Mori-sensei who took the time out of her day to accompany us, and everyone else who made this day possible. ありがとうございました!
Sakina K (11A) & Hridya KC (11E)
German Language Model UN: A Day of Debate and Diplomacy.
On July 24th, students from across Victoria came together at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership to participate in the German Language Model United Nations Conference. This unique event gave us the exciting chance to debate, negotiate, and pass resolutions entirely in German, an experience that truly challenged and expanded our language skills beyond the classroom.
This year’s focus was the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger. Representing the delegations of Germany, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Ukraine, we engaged in thoughtful discussions about the causes of and solutions to global food insecurity. Throughout the day, we developed important skills like public speaking, critical thinking, and diplomacy, all while navigating the complexities of using a second language.
The day began with the delivery of our carefully prepared position statements to fellow delegates and the Honourable General Secretary. Although initially nerve-wracking, this pushed us to improve our pronunciation, build confidence, and speak confidently in front of a large audience. Some of our students also had the exciting opportunity to speak to SBS German about their experience during the Model United Nations! By the end of the event, we had participated in meaningful debates, made new friends from other schools, and gained the valuable bonus of improved German language abilities.
Thank you to Frau Hohmann, the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership, and the United Nations Association Australia for making this event possible. We encourage students to take up VCE German to be able to partake in opportunities such as the Model UN German Conference!
Grace L (12D) & Aaliah N (12G)