Radford welcomes Momoka Shibata
By Ms Michele Sharp, Head of Languages
Language Assistants are a fabulous resource for the languages department as they contextualise learning for students and support teachers in developing teaching materials in authentic language.
Their primary role is to enhance speaking activities in the classroom by providing access to native speakers. The language assistants live with Radford families during their stay, allowing them to improve their English and learn about everyday life in Australia. We are very grateful for the support of the three Year 8 Japanese students and their families who have volunteered to host Momoka this year.
Momoka is the third assistant we have employed from the Kansai University Japanese language department - a relationship that has developed after I studied there as part of the Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowship.
Welcome to Radford, Momoka!
In her own words
Hello! I’m Momoka, the Japanese language assistant this year. I came to Canberra on 29 April from Osaka, Japan. I have only spent five weeks here, but I’ve had many wonderful experiences. I’ll be here until the end of Term 4. If you see me, please call me Momoka!
One reason I came here is because I would like to be a Japanese language teacher after I go back to Japan, so I hope to learn Japanese education under the great Japanese teachers at Radford. Another reason is I want to improve my English because I love chatting. I very much appreciate having this special opportunity.
At Radford College, I participate in Japanese language classes as a Language Assistant and support their activities and games. Students are sometimes very nervous, but they have a strong interest for learning and ask me many questions. I participate in Japanese language classes as a Language Assistant and support their activities and games. The students are very kind and the teachers are very helpful. The students say “konnichiwa" (hello) to me outside of class and one student recommended a restaurant. The teachers taught me all about Radford. I really enjoy the school life as an assistant for teachers and students.
Since I came to Canberra and Radford, I am surprised every day. At first, I was moved by the scenery. In Osaka, my hometown, I don’t see such big skies because of buildings and mountains. Canberra has great nature. A few days ago, I saw a brilliant rainbow. And also, I was surprised at the difference between education in Japanese schools and Radford College. In Japan, we have 40 students in a class, so students memorise what the teacher teaches to improve their writing skills. But it is very difficult for teachers to plan speaking practise in the class. Having many students in a class makes for fun communication, but few students put their hands up and ask questions during classes. However, Radford College makes classes more active. Students always explain themselves and they have the opportunities to use the words they have learned. I don’t know which style of education is better, but I think it is ideal for students to enjoy classes.
At the moment, I am staying with my first host family. They are so kind. They teach me about the Canberra lifestyle. They give me opportunities to make Australian meals, watch TV shows, learn new English words and so on. I was so nervous because I’ve never been to Australia. Of course, I’m still nervous, but now I’m very happy and enjoy the life here.
I’m interested in Australian animals, landscapes, history and food. If you have recommendations, please tell me.
I appreciate all the people who have given me this wonderful opportunity, who are supporting me and teaching me everything!
I’m very much looking forward to new experiences.