This week it was time once again for the annual Language Fair. This spectacular language event was put on by the students in grades 6 – 8 and attended by their families and friends. Students demonstrated what they have learnt in their language classes. Audiences were entertained by performances in French, Spanish, Swedish and English. The theme of the fair this year was A Cultural Trip Around the World.  Of course this language fair also had another purpose, to raise money for the UNHCR. This organisation helps refugees in the EU.

During the introduction to the event, representatives presented the evening’s program in each of the languages. The students also talked about refugees and UNHCR and explained that you could contribute by placing money in the boxes in each of the rooms.

The English language students presented cities in the US, England and Australia. They made their presentation into a play, in which  tourists visited each city and a guide showed them around. Visitors could try scones and jam afterwards.

Swedish students presented a variety of aspects of Swedish culture.  These covered celebrities such the football star Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the composer Avicii. One group made a cultural journey through time visiting Old Town and Mid Summer celebrations. Another group explained Sweden for beginners. You could also try typical Swedish ‘fika’ (sweet snacks).

The French students sang beautiful songs and later performed a play in which madame and monsieur ordered food at a restaurant. There were also several short plays about various French mythologies. Another French group took at look at food in different regions of France by following the route of the Tour de France. This was all followed by a chance to taste some French delights.

Spanish students entertained audiences with a performance that involved visiting a travel agency and booking trips to Latin American countries. Another group focused on holidays in Spain and the third group had a fun game show. Naturally, visitors could try delicious foods such as tacos after the performances.

Overall it was clear that the students found it a challenge to speak in the target languages, but of course that is part of learning. The Quirky Quibbler asked a few of the students if they think that the language fair is a great way to practice a language and all of them answered yes!  Some students pointed out that you get to test your knowledge in front of people, rather than on paper and that this motivates you to learn. The vast majority agreed that the fair is a great deal of fun and gives them a chance to use their language outside of the classroom.

It was a great language fair, full of interesting plays and presentations, not only focusing on language learning, but also raising money for a great cause.