FOREIGN LANGUAGE COURSES

Students are required to take at least three years (levels) of the same foreign language throughout high school for graduation. Typically students enter the language sequence in 9 th grade at the level indicated by middle school instruction, placement testing and interviews, as well as the recommendation of the middle school teacher. Students must demonstrate a minimum satisfactory proficiency (C- or better) in order to advance to the next level course. The foreign language requirement is waived for ESL students. All foreign language courses are year-long courses.

FIRST YEAR FOREIGN LANGUAGE:

French or Spanish

Foundations 1:
The first year course provides an introduction to the basics of grammar and vocabulary with an emphasis on developing proficiency in speaking and listening as well as reading and writing. Activities include: simple conversations, compositions, games, puzzles, interviews, oral presentations and skits. Students develop cultural awareness through authentic materials, including videos, tape recordings, magazines and newspapers.

French 1
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

Spanish 1
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

SECOND YEAR FOREIGN LANGUAGE:

French or Spanish

Foundations 2:
The second level continues to expand upon grammatical concepts, build vocabulary and develop communicative skills via approaches similar to those used at the first level. The student should develop greater competence in listening and speaking skills through increased exposure to and involvement in everyday situations in the language. Additionally, students acquire increased proficiency in reading by the study of uncomplicated, but challenging texts. They also work on developing writing skills in the language by completion of various writing (and occasionally translation) assignments.

French 2
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

Spanish 2
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

THIRD YEAR FOREIGN LANGUAGE:

French or Spanish

Advanced Grammatical Concepts:
Level III combines a review of essential grammatical structures, especially verb tenses, with an introduction to the finer points of the language. Reading matter is more sophisticated and may include short stories, novellas, essays, and magazine articles. These provide the basis for class discussion and conversation in the target language. More fluent expression is encouraged through discussion, debate, assigned composition topics, and comparison of resulting texts.

French 3
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

Spanish 3
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

FOURTH YEAR FOREIGN LANGUAGE:

French or Spanish

History, Geography & Culture Survey:
This comprehensive course addresses the needs of those students who may, or may not, plan to pursue Advanced Placement programs by means of a literary systematic approach to history, philosophies, social behavior and political thought. Students are encouraged to explore, enjoy and discuss many works considered to be masterpieces of world literature in their original language. Literary genres presented include poetry, short stories, drama and essays. Selections are complemented with comprehension and grammar exercises, pertinent vocabulary, presentations, film studies and composition activities.

French 4
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

Spanish 4
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

ADVANCED PLACEMENT FOREIGN LANGUAGE:

French or Spanish

Language &/or Literature:
The basis of this course is preparation for the College Board’s national standard Advanced Placement exam taken in May each year, which students are expected to take. Preparation includes reading and discussion of contemporary and classic literature, as well as current events, in the target language. The examination of novels, essays, films, and newspaper articles form the foundation of critical classroom discussions and compositions. A review of grammar, with emphasis on the subtleties of advanced concepts, exercised orally, aurally, and via written exercises, as well as a heightening of thematic vocabulary, forms additional preparation for the advanced placement examination.

Advanced French Language
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

Advanced French Literature
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment

Advanced Spanish Language & Literature
Objectives, Sequence, Learning Approaches & Methods of Assessment