LOTE
Lavalla Catholic College offers Italian as its study of LOTE (Languages other than English). It is a compulsory subject in Years 7 and 8 and it becomes an elective from Year 9. As part of the course students may apply to attend a biennial trip to Italy.
Throughout the six years students are exposed to Italian culture and food, similarities and differences between Australia and Italy, and the geography and history of Italy. Food is probably the most popular aspect of the study and at different stages students are given the opportunity to taste their way through the unit. While LOTE is an academic subject focussing on grammar and reading, writing, listening and speaking, the course also has colour, fun, music and eating which in itself reflects the traditional Italian stereotype. The students are encouraged to reflect on their own language when studying Italian and many gain a better understanding of English as a result.