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March Newsletter
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A message from the MLTAWA President
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It is with great pleasure and a sense of shared purpose that I welcome you to the latest edition of our newsletter. As we dive into the diverse array of articles, insights, and updates, I encourage you to explore the dynamic landscape of Languages Education in Western Australia.
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In this edition, we shed light on a significant development as TISC unveils changes to the Tertiary Entrance Aggregate Calculation. The decision to eliminate bonus points for Languages study has ignited passionate discussions within our community, prompting us to reflect on the impact on language education. We also delve into the MLTAWA's response to this decision, advocating for the importance of linguistic skills in an interconnected and multicultural society.
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Our journey continues with a glimpse into some recent SLA events, where collaboration and appreciation among language educators were showcased. These experiences serve as a testament to the vibrant and supportive network that defines our community.
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Excitement builds as we announce the upcoming MLTAWA 2024 Conference, themed "Advancing Languages Education - Bridging Cultures, Connecting Communities." This event promises to be a transformative experience, featuring distinguished keynote speakers who will enrich our understanding of language education's profound role in fostering cultural understanding.
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Additionally, we extend an invitation from Paula, a passionate Spanish teacher, to create a Spanish Teachers Network in WA. This initiative seeks to create a platform for collaboration and growth among Spanish language educators.
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I invite you to immerse yourself in the articles and updates presented in this newsletter, fostering a sense of community, shared knowledge, and a collective commitment to advancing Languages Education. Together, let us continue to bridge cultures and connect communities for a brighter and more harmonious future.
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TISC Update to the Tertiary Entrance Aggregate Calculation from 2026
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In a surprising move, TISC has decided to eliminate the bonus points previously awarded to students who studied Languages in their final year of high school. The decision, which will take effect in 2026, has sparked intense discussions within the Languages Education community.
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The bonus points were initially introduced to encourage the study of Languages and to recognise the importance of linguistic skills in an increasingly globalised world. However, TISC officials argue that the decision was made in response to a need for a more streamlined and equitable application process, aiming to ensure that all applicants are judged on a level playing field.
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The MLTAWA, as a prominent advocate for Languages Education in Western Australia, responded to TISC's decision. The association expressed deep concern over the removal of the bonus points and its potential impact on language study uptake. We argued that by removing the incentive for language study, TISC may inadvertently discourage students from pursuing valuable linguistic skills that are crucial in an interconnected and multicultural society. The Association is calling for a reconsideration of the bonus removal or, at the very least, a delay in its implementation. We encourage you to stay informed about these developments, as they have the potential to shape the educational landscape for years to come. MLTAWA invites you to write your own letter to TISC regarding this matter. You can have your voice heard by providing feedback to TISC directly via their website or contact details. The MLTAWA will continue to keep you updated on any further responses or developments.
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SLA Events
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On the 11th of February, as the MLTAWA President, I had the honour of attending the 2024 TAGWA Conference. It showcased a wonderful collaboration with the Goethe Institute in Melbourne. I enjoyed seeing the close collaboration amongst the German Teachers and appreciated the warm welcome. I enjoyed the mixture of sessions and practical activities showcased. Thanks, TAGWA for inviting me, I look forward to the next one.
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On the 22nd of February, as the MLTAWA President, I had the honour of attending the TAGWA Danke Event hosted by the Goethe Society WA at Anzac House in Perth. The event, held in collaboration with TAGWA, with prominent figures such as The Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany, Dr. Gabriele Maluga, Meredith Hammat MLA, and Dr. Dale Adams from UWA, was a celebration of appreciation and unity within the German language education community in Western Australia. German teachers attended in conjunction with the administration temas to show their support for the Languages programs.
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On the 9th of March, I had the honour of attending the 2024 JLTAWA Conference. Just like TAGWA, it was wonderful to see their collaboration with other entities, the Japan Foundation. If only I understood Japanese, I would have appreciated the session on new Japanese trends more, but some of the pictures of new Japanese inventions were certainly interesting. I was also asked to present a session on ChatGPT and enjoyed the feedback from delegates. It was wonderful to hear the teachers so freely sharing resources with each other. Thanks, JLTAWA for inviting me and for the delicious lunch.
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Conference 2024
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We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2024 Modern Language Teachers' Association of Western Australia (MLTAWA) Conference, where language educators, enthusiasts, and professionals will converge to explore, learn, and grow together. Mark your calendars for the enriching event taking place on August 2-3 at the lovely Novotel Perth Langley. At the heart of this year's conference is our theme: "Advancing Languages Education - Bridging Cultures, Connecting Communities." In an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of Languages Education goes beyond grammar and vocabulary. Our conference aims to delve into the profound role language plays in fostering cultural understanding and building bridges between communities.
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We are honoured to present an esteemed lineup of keynote speakers who will share their expertise and insights on the theme:
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· Emeritus Professor Joe Lo Bianco:
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A distinguished figure in the field of language education, Professor Lo Bianco will provide a thought-provoking perspective on the evolution and future of language education.
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· Dr. Libby Hammond and Sophia Mung (Purnululu Aboriginal Independent Community School):
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Dr. Hammond and Ms. Mung will offer a unique and vital perspective, shedding light on the intersection of language education, indigenous cultures, and community engagement.
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· Matthew Absalom (Melbourne University):
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Drawing on his extensive research, Mr. Absalom will explore innovative approaches to language education and how they contribute to cultural exchange and understanding.
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· Kate Xavier (Together for Humanity):
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Ms. Xavier will share her experiences in promoting diversity, inclusion, and understanding through language education, highlighting its role in fostering unity within communities.
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Registration Information:
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We understand your eagerness to be part of this enlightening event. Registrations for the MLTAWA 2024 Conference will open soon, tentatively on April 1. Stay tuned for further updates on our website and social media platforms.
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Prepare to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of languages, cultures, and educational insights at the MLTAWA 2024 Conference. Let's advance languages education together, bridging cultures and connecting communities for a brighter, more harmonious future.
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We look forward to welcoming you to this exceptional event!
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MLTAWA’s Nathan Harvey Memorial Event
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On Thursday 15 February, the Modern Language Teachers’ Association of Western Australia Inc. (MLTAWA) held a Memorial Event at The Left Bank in Fremantle for the late Nathan Harvey – long-term teacher, leader, and advocate of Languages Education. Known to all members of the MLTAWA and wider Languages Education community, both at a local, national and international level, Nathan’s sudden passing in September of 2023 left a reverberating sense of sadness to all who knew him.
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Call for Spanish Teachers' Network
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Buenos días. My name is Paula and I’m a qualified Spanish teacher from Medellin, Colombia. I have been in Perth since 2022. I have taught in three different countries: Colombia, United Kingdom, and Australia across primary and secondary schools. In 2022, I taught French at the International School of Western Australia and now, I’ve been working at HillSide Christian College as a Spanish teacher since 2023. I am creating the Spanish Language Programme from Year 1 to Year 10. I’d like to create and expand a network of Spanish Language Teachers in WA. If you are interested contact me at [email protected].
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We would love to hear from you!
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Do you have an article or news you would like to share with our members? We would love to hear from you at [email protected]
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Stay tuned for more news, updates, events and resources on Languages Education with our monthly Newsletter.
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Please note: This is an automatic newsletter with no replies monitored - if you wish to contact MLTAWA, please email [email protected] . If it is a membership related concern, please email [email protected] or for website access issues please email [email protected].
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