MAKASSAR — A new language is bringing a fresh and exciting learning experience to Sekolah Madania Makassar. This academic year, Korean has been introduced as a new subject for Junior High School students through the LOTE (Languages Other Than English) Korean class.

The introduction of Korean gives students an exciting opportunity to learn a new language while exploring a different culture. As one of the newest language options at the Junior High School level, the Korean class creates a fresh and engaging atmosphere in the classroom. Students are encouraged to learn, practice, and use Korean in simple and enjoyable ways.

The learning journey begins with the basics. Students are introduced to 한글 (Hangul), the Korean writing system, as well as common vocabulary, greetings, numbers, simple expressions, and everyday conversations. Students gradually become familiar with the unique sounds, writing system, and expressions used in everyday Korean communication.

As students become more familiar with the language, they are given opportunities to practice simple conversations and expressions. Rather than focusing only on memorizing vocabulary, the lessons encourage students to actively use what they have learned. This helps create a classroom environment where students can learn through practice, interaction, and participation.

The Korean LOTE class also goes beyond language itself. Students are introduced to the rich and diverse culture of Korea through various classroom activities. They can discover aspects of Korean traditions, daily life, food, celebrations, and social customs. Learning about the culture helps students understand that a language is closely connected to the people and communities who use it.Korean culture has also become increasingly familiar to young people around the world. The popularity of Korean music, dramas, movies, food, fashion, and other forms of entertainment has sparked curiosity about the Korean language. For Madania students, the Korean class provides an opportunity to turn that curiosity into meaningful learning.

The lessons are designed to make students feel comfortable and confident as they learn something new. Making mistakes is considered a natural part of the learning process. Students are encouraged to try pronouncing new words, practice short dialogues, and participate in classroom activities without being afraid of making errors. Through the LOTE Korean program, students are also developing skills that extend beyond language learning. Learning another language can encourage communication, curiosity, cultural understanding, and openness toward people from different backgrounds. These experiences support students in becoming more confident and globally minded learners.

For some students, the Korean class may be their first experience learning an Asian language other than their own. The unfamiliar alphabet and new sounds may initially feel challenging, but they also make the learning process exciting. Each new Korean word, Hangul character, and simple conversation becomes a small achievement in their language-learning journey. The presence of Korean as a new Junior High School subject reflects Sekolah Madania Makassar’s commitment to providing diverse and meaningful learning experiences. Through the LOTE program, students are given the chance to explore languages beyond English and discover new perspectives from different parts of the world.

The classroom atmosphere is filled with curiosity, enthusiasm, and the excitement of discovering something new. From learning the first Hangul characters to practicing simple conversations, every lesson brings students one step closer to understanding the Korean language and culture. Korean is not simply a new subject on the timetable. It is a new doorway to language, culture, communication, and a wider world, giving Madania students an opportunity to expand their horizons while enjoying the experience of learning something new.

감사합니다 ��

Penulis : Miss Nita (Eng)