Languages Other Than English

The goal of the world languages program is to prepare students to be linguistically and culturally competent in languages other than English. The ability to communicate in a culturally appropriate manner with speakers of other languages is the key to success in the increasingly diverse global community of the 21st century. As students develop proficiency in world languages and an understanding of the underlying values and beliefs of other cultures, they gain the skills that are essential to meaningful communication. World language courses must be taken in sequential order. The prerequisite for all courses, except Level 1, is either successful completion of the preceding course or a local placement test.

Spanish/French Level 1

Students begin to learn to communicate orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about topics related to daily life. They interpret basic information when listening and reading.  Vocabulary and basic grammatical structures are taught within the context of these familiar topics.  Culture is embedded throughout the course.

Spanish/French Level 2

Students expand their ability to communicate orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about topics related to daily life.  They interpret information when listening and reading.  Vocabulary and grammatical structures are taught within the context of these topics. Culture is embedded throughout the course.

Spanish/French Level 3

Students continue to expand their ability to communicate orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about a variety of familiar topics.  They interpret detailed information when listening and reading.  Vocabulary and more complex grammatical structures are taught within the context of these topics. Culture is embedded throughout the course.

Spanish/French Level 4

Students continue to increase their proficiency in communicating orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about a broad range of topics.  They interpret complex information when listening and reading.  Vocabulary and a variety of complex linguistic structures are taught within the context of these topics. Culture is embedded throughout the course.

Hispanic Civilization and Culture

Students continue to increase their proficiency in oral and written communication about a broad range of topics as they study the history and culture of hispanic or francophone countries.  They interpret complex information when listening and reading.  Vocabulary and a variety of complex linguistic structures are taught within the context of these historical and cultural topics. 

French Civilization and Culture

The course is presented in a humanities-style approach and will feature the exploration of history, geography, art, architecture, and literature.  Students will be evaluated in terms of the four modalities (reading, writing, listening and speaking) as well as their understanding and analysis of historical and cultural topics. This course allows students to apply their French language skills in an authentic manner.

Advanced Placement World Languages

These courses are for world languages students interested in college-level work. The courses link language and culture while developing students' proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.  Students read, discuss, and react to a variety of texts orally and in writing in preparation for the Advanced Placement Examination.