Our Year 12 students in French, Italian and Japanese, in addition to some students that study a language externally to school, will soon undertake one of the most significant assessments in their language-learning journey: the VCE Oral Examination. They are now busy preparing in and out of class for these exams that are scheduled for the first week of Term 4.
This external assessment allows students to demonstrate their speaking skills, cultural understanding, and ability to communicate confidently in another language. The oral examination consists of two parts. In the first section, students participate in a general conversation with assessors. They discuss topics such as their family, interests, school experiences and future plans. This allows students to demonstrate their ability to communicate naturally and respond spontaneously in real-life situations.
The second section focuses on a detailed study that students have researched in class. Each student selects a topic connected to the language and culture they are studying and develops an in-depth understanding of the subject. In 2026, the French students focused on the topic ‘Feminism in France’, the Italian students on ‘Made in Italy’, and the Japanese students on ‘Ekiben’ (Japanese train lunch boxes). During the exam, they present their knowledge, discuss their findings and answer questions from assessors. This component enables students to showcase more sophisticated language skills while demonstrating independent learning and critical thinking.
Our students have participated in conversations and mock oral exams to build both fluency and confidence. In addition, each language area has a conversation tutor with whom they have weekly one-to-one sessions. In the coming weeks, they will continue practising their speaking skills, refining their detailed study responses and developing strategies to manage nerves and perform at their best.
The benefits of language learning extend well beyond the classroom. Studying a language helps students develop communication skills, cultural awareness and adaptability. It also encourages them to view the world from different perspectives and prepares them for opportunities in an increasingly interconnected global community.
The Languages team would like to wish our students all the best for not only the upcoming oral exams but also the written language exams later in November.
Bonne chance! In Bocca Al Lupo! Ganbatte!