Auslan

What is Auslan?

Auslan is Australian Sign Language, the native language for the Australian Deaf Community, and is a visual, spatial language. Students studying Auslan learn to speak to others using their hands.  

At Nearnung primary School, the formal study of Auslan contributes to the overall intellectual and social enrichment of both first language and second language learners by providing:

• opportunities to develop intercultural capabilities, understanding and respect for others, appreciation of diversity and openness to different perspectives and experiences.
• Communicate with others by interpreting and responding using signed hand gestures and body language

The curriculum provides direction for an integrated, inclusive and meaningful approach to language education in Auslan for both first and second language learners.

Learning Auslan:

• broadens students’ understanding that each language is an integrated, evolving system for the framing and communication of meaning; and encourages understanding of the role of language as an expression of cultural and personal identity and a shaper of perspectives
• contributes to the overall curriculum intent by providing distinctive real-life and intellectual opportunities for students to expand their engagement with the wider world and to reflect on the cultural and social assumptions that underpin their own world view and language use. Such awareness of different perspectives is an integral part of effective communication
• contributes to the development of critical thinking and the ability to adapt to change and equips students with learning strategies and study habits that are the foundation not only for lifelong learning but also for any subsequent language learning.