18 May 2017
This year, one of our Year 7 language classes has embarked on a journey to become the first students ever to study Punjabi as part of the NSW Curriculum. Their teacher Mrs Kaur, who has been a mathematics teacher for the past 16 years at Sir Joseph Banks High School, has been very excited and motivated to teach her mother language of Punjabi to Year 7 students.
The class has found the study of the Punjabi language, culture, food, traditions and philosophies to be challenging and exciting. A highlight for the students was learning that all relationships have different names in Punjabi culture.
Mrs Kaur commented on her motivation behind teaching this class:
"The settling of Punjabis in Sydney and in particular Bankstown, inspired me to come up with the idea of teaching Punjabi. I feel that it is an ideal way of breaking the language barriers between cultures and also creating a better understanding of identity in order to create a more inclusive atmosphere for all groups of people throughout the community."
Year 7 language class with their teacher Mrs Kaur and principal Mr Kitteringham showing how they feel about being part of this fun new subject.
Mrs Kaur has worked hard to incorporate the vital aspects of learning Punjabi to fit into the NSW syllabus for 2017. The NSW syllabus outcome of ‘moving between cultures' brings awareness of cultural diversity and helps our students identify cultural practices in neighbouring Punjabi-speaking communities. Also, the syllabus outcome of ‘making linguistic connections' helps students recognise the diversity of language systems and explore ways in which meaning is conveyed in Punjabi.
Mr Kitteringham had some encouraging words for the students:
"I am extremely proud of the effort and enthusiasm which our young Year 7 students have brought to this subject. The way they have worked together has been in a fun, engaging and cooperative manner that really goes to show the excellence of our students here at school when challenged with unique opportunities."
Mrs Kaur (left) Mr Kitteringham (right) proud to be supporting the new, exciting subject of Punjabi.
Mrs Kaur has plans for a class excursion to a Sikh place of worship (a Gurudwara) to provide her Year 7 students with the opportunity to further immerse themselves in the subject and develop a better understanding of the religious aspect of Punjabi culture.