LOTE@HOME packs are about unconscious visual learning and allow you to build the foundations of your Language Other Than English (LOTE) during your every day family life. They have been developed to be easily integrated into the home and everyday family environment to assist in learning a second language.
They are not intended to replace formal LOTE lessons, however they are intended to build an "in country environment" in the home that will support the formal learning of a second language.
The layout in each component of the pack is the same. The LOTE word is in the largest purple font, the pronunciation is shown in brackets in a smaller (red font), then the English translation is shown underneath the pronunciation in a smaller purple font.
The pronunciation (provided by Connect Language Services, www.transl8.com.au) not only helps you get the pronunciation right but also shows you where to stress the accent by underlining the letter in the word. For example in the Italian Pack - CUCINA (koocheena) Kitchen.
Stick the Flash cards up around your home, use the Calendar to record appointments and daily events and the Conversation Cards to translate everyday phrases and conversations into your LOTE on a daily basis. Have some fun with the Body Parts Game and enjoy the delicious Traditional LOTE Recipes.
By using tools within these packs in everyday situations and converting some of your normal family phrases like, "Let's go to school" into say Italian "Andiamo a scuola" and "I love you" into "Ti amo", you are helping to begin to immerse you and your family into a new language.
Immersion in a language is the simplest and fastest way to learn a new language. Every day use of the language brings meaning and relevance to your children's LOTE classes. It encourages the use of language and tests the knowledge gained in class on a regular basis.
If you're not familiar with your child's LOTE you may find the pronunciation of some of the words challenging. Encourage discussion with your child / children on how to pronounce the words and if there is confusion suggest that they ask their LOTE Teacher for some guidance and then get them to teach you the correct way of pronouncing the words. This will help them to understand the word and give them a sense of pride in being able to teach you something too.
We would appreciate your feedback on these packs, any comments, ideas or suggestions for improvement can be sent back to us by email at .
We hope you and your family enjoy your LOTE@HOME Pack!