Year 11 Korean

Year 11 Korean 

Language learning at Year 11 will be a mana-enhancing experience that will allow you to access the language and culture of Korea, as well as developing your awareness and connections to others along the way. You will have opportunities to apply these skills with our sister schools in Korea through both virtual and physical exchanges. Learning a language will broaden your career horizons and allow you to work anywhere in the world with the skills you have developed through your language learning adventure at Westlake.

Common Q&A  

Q: I am Korean, but my Korean is not good and I want to take this subject to improve my Korean. Can I take this course?

A: No. 11KOR does not fit your purpose. Instead, you should take 13NKO (Year 13 Korean for Native Speakers) in Year 13 which is a course designed for background speakers and native speakers to help improve and maintain their Korean language and cultural competency. If you speak Korean but have little to no ability in reading or writing, you may select this course for now (pending Head of Department approval). The Head of Department will contact you to confirm your placement.

Q: I didn't take Korean in Year 10. Can I still take 11KOR?

A: Yes. 11KOR is an open entry course. You will be supported by the teacher to catch up on the Year 10 contents at the beginning of the year, but you will need to be committed to putting the extra hours outside of class to keep up with the lesson pace. If you want to select 11KOR as a beginner, the best option is to see Mrs Jeen in L block office to receive more information and resources to help you prepare.  

Q: What do the assessments look like for this course?

A: You have two in-class assessments and two formal exams. 

• Assessment 1 (in-class): Write short piece(s) of writing in Korean with resources. 
• Assessment 2 (formal exam): Listen / Read passages in Korean and answer the questions in English. 
• Assessment 3 (in-class): Have conversations using simple spoken Korean. 
• Assessment 4 (formal exam): Listen / Read passages in Korean and answer the questions in English. 

Q: What topics are covered in this course?

A:

• Ako - learning from each other 
• Turangawaewae - the place we stand and belong
• Hauora - well being 
• Whakanui - celebrations 
• Language and cultural exchange with sister schools in Korea through live zoom sessions, online and offline pen pals.
• Cultural workshops such as Korean traditional games, K-POP dance, Taekwondo, calligraphy, tea ceremony, etc. 

Q: Why should I take Korean? 

A: 

• Learn in a Fun, Social & Supportive Way

Korean class is interactive and varied—featuring games, videos, conversations, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re outgoing or more reserved, you’ll build confidence and friendships in a low-pressure, engaging environment.

• Unlock High-Paying Careers in NZ and Overseas

Language skills are a major asset in industries like tech, healthcare, education, defence, aviation, and international business—giving you a competitive edge and often leading to better pay.

• Stand Out in Uni, Apprenticeships & Job Applications

Being bilingual shows you're disciplined, globally aware, and adaptable—qualities that impress employers, scholarship panels, and selectors.

• Boost Your Brainpower & School Performance

Learning a language sharpens memory, focus, and problem-solving—helping you improve in other subjects like Maths, English, and Science.

• Access Scholarships, Travel & Global Opportunities

Languages open doors to fully funded exchanges, uni scholarships, and travel adventures—saving money and building unforgettable experiences.