The Foreign Language Department assumes “primary responsibility” for assisting students in achieving proficiency In Academic Expectations 1 (Writing), 2 (Reading), 3 (Speaking), and 4 (Listening). We also acknowledge our collaborative efforts in reinforcing and supporting all of the other academic expectations outlined on page vi of this Program of Studies. The goals and objectives of the course offerings listed below reflect the overall goals of the Foreign Language program 9-12. In the case where a specific course might concentrate on an additional academic expectation, the number of the expectation addressed is listed below the course title.
The Foreign Languages Department offers courses in American Sign Language, Chinese, English as a Second Language (ESL), French, German, Italian, Latin and Spanish. The department recommends that students pursue the study of at least one world language throughout their high school experience. Mastering a language is a difficult task: the longer one works at it, the more competent one will become.
In nearly all cases, it is extremely important that students follow the recommendations of their teachers when selecting courses and levels. Once a year has begun, it is often very difficult to move students from one level of instruction to another without a major schedule disruption. Final examinations comprise 20% of the year grade. The content of final examinations is the same for all sections of a given course. The study of a world language is sequential and requires continuity. Trying to resume a world language after a period of not taking any generally requires the repetition of a level previously taken and for which one cannot again receive credit.
NOTE:
The proficiency
stages for ASL, French, German, Italian, Latin,
Mandarin and Spanish are in accordance
with the Massachusetts Foreign Languages Curriculum Framework and
represent the level the student will strive to achieve by the end
of the course. For further information, please refer to the
Massachusetts Department of Education web site:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/
current.html
Foreign Languages Quick Reference:
American Sign Language
French
German
Italian
Latin
Mandarin
Spanish
490 Lv 1 American Sign Language I
This course provides an introduction to American Sign Language. Areas studied include the structure, usage and history of ASL. Classwork and homework assignments focus on ASL expressive and receptive skill development, utilizing interactive reinforcement drills, role plays, dialogues and ASL storytelling.
491 Lv 1 American Sign Language II
This course is a continuation of ASL I and it allows further opportunity for students to develop their basic ASL language skills. The course will reinforce and expand the vocabulary and grammar skills that were introduced in ASL I. Students will also learn to develop a personal "signing style" through increased emphasis on ASL conversational skills.
NOTE: The proficiency stages for French are in accordance with the Massachusetts Foreign Languages Curriculum Framework and represent the level the student will strive to achieve by the end of the course. For further information, please refer to the Massachusetts Department of Education web site: http://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/current.html
410 Lv 1 French I
(Proficiency Stage 1)
Prerequisite: none
This course is for students
who are beginning their study of French and for those coming into
the high school who would like to strengthen their basic skills.
Through hands-on activities, students will learn the four basic
language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Songs, presentations, skits and group activities will allow
students to express themselves in a variety of everyday
situations. Emphasis will be on role-playing in order to give
students confidence in their ability to communicate in French.
415 Hon French II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite:
A- or better in 410 or in Advanced French Grade 8 and teacher recommendation
This course is for students of proven linguistic ability who are able to continue the rapid acquisition of new vocabulary and structures. Written and oral precision will be emphasized. Using a wide variety of verb tenses including the subjunctive, students will learn to communicate more confidently and spontaneously. Students will read and discuss authentic French texts, including les Aventures de Tintin, Petit Nicolas, and la Belle et la Bête. Films and cultural topics will also be explored. This course is taught exclusively in French.
411 Lv I French II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: Teacher
recommendation or satisfactory completion of French I.
This course will reinforce basic language skills in action.
Students will learn to express themselves in a more sophisticated
way, creating complex sentences in the present, past and future
tenses. Students are encouraged to speak spontaneously in a
variety of skits, games and conversations. Written and oral
precision will be emphasized. Using songs, poems, comic strips
and humorous stories, students will develop strategies to help
them interpret authentic French materials. Francophone culture
will come alive via films, web sites, articles and discussions
with native speakers in class. This course is taught primarily in
French.
416 Hon French III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: B- or higher
in 415 and teacher recommendation.
This course is for very motivated students who are able to build
upon a strong foundation of structures and vocabulary. The rapid
acquisition of grammatical structures and idiomatic vocabulary is
emphasized. Students will learn to be more creative in their
expression and to use language independently to inform, narrate,
describe, question, persuade as well as express feelings and
attitudes. Listening skills will be developed systematically
through regular exposure to authentic, rapidly spoken French
articles on audio cassette. The study of literature will continue
with the reading of Saint-Exupéry’s
Le Petit Prince and Camus’ L’Hôte.
The course is taught exclusively in French.
412 Lv I French III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: C or better
in 411 or satisfactory completion of French II.
This course is for students
who are ready to appreciate the subtleties of real French speech
and culture. Through the in-depth study of amusing stories,
poems, songs and a popular French film, students will acquire
vocabulary and speech patterns that go beyond the average
textbook. Students will significantly improve their ability to
understand authentic spoken French while using the language to
learn about and discuss francophone cultures, history and other
topics of interest. On a structural level, students will use
compound tenses and the subjunctive mood to articulate emotions
and reactions in real-life situations, both orally and in
writing. This course is taught exclusively in French.
417 Hon French IV
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B- or better
in 416 and teacher recommendation
In this course, students will
read and discuss a variety of literary genres: essays, short
stories, plays and poetry as well as full-length unglossed
novels. Course work will include oral reports, written
compositions and explications de texte. Students will
begin to speak in paragraphs rather than in short sentences with
increased accuracy. This course helps prepare students for the
SAT II and is a prerequisite for the French V Advanced Placement
Language and French V Advanced Placement Literature courses. This
course is taught exclusively in French.
413 Lv I French IV
(Proficiency Stage 3-4)
Prerequisite: C or better in 412 and teacher recommendation.
In this course, students will
apply their linguistic skills to increasingly diverse and
culturally rich materials. New vocabulary and grammatical
structures will be drilled using visuals, enabling students to
pursue more open-ended and creative communication. Personal
presentations, poetry and Guignol skits provide variety.
Technical accuracy will be a priority. Reading comprehension will
be developed through a variety of excerpts from French
literature, including L'Evasion and the mystery stories of
Arsène Lupin. In-depth study of films will include La Rue
Cases-Nègres and Jean de Florette. This course is
taught exclusively
in French.
414 Lv 1 French V Literature, Film and Conversation
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: C or better in 413 and teacher recommendation.
The main goal of this course is to speak and interact as much as possible
in the target language; student participation counts for a very
large percentage of the overall grade. Rather than focusing on grammar
exercises, students will discuss numerous francophone films: their
themes, styles, perspectives and contexts. Students will also practice
their speaking skills by presenting films of their choice and creating
movies as part of their final project. French V is structured around key
themes presented in all types of francophone cinema, including modernity,
colonization, and personal responsibility towards others.
418 Advanced Placement French
Language
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B- or better in
417 and teacher recommendation.
The overall goal of this
course, as set forth by the College Board, is to prepare students
to perform at a high level of proficiency in the four basic
language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Upon
completing the course, students are expected to be able to
comprehend formal and informal French, to speak, read and write
with a high level of proficiency. The course thus challenges able
students while providing them a means of obtaining college credit
and/or placement. Students will be prepared to take the Advanced
Placement French Language Examination in the spring. This course
is taught exclusively in French.
419 Hon French V AP Literature
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B- or better in
417 and teacher recommendation.
This course offers an
in-depth study of French literature from different periods in the
original language. Students will learn to formulate and express
critical opinions and judgments in correct oral and written
French, as well as acquire the basic concepts and terminology of
textual analysis. The works read will be discussed thoroughly in
class, thus developing oral communication skills as well as
reading comprehension and vocabulary. This course challenges able
students while providing them a means of obtaining college credit
and/or placement. Students will be prepared to take the Advanced
Placement Examination in French Literature in the spring. The
current AP reading list is available at:
http://lhs.lexingtonma.org/Teachers/Girondel/aplit.html. This course is taught
exclusively in French.
492 French Exchange Seminar
Prerequisite: Selection to participate in the exchange program with France.
This seminar is intended solely for exchange program participants. The course will further
enhance the students' linguistic skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. It provides
students with French culture and history. Students are helped in developing oral presentations
and projects to given in the host school. Help with the necessary documentation for the trip
and travel preparations are provided.
401 Lv 1 German I
(Proficiency Stage 1)
Prerequisite: none
For beginning German students. All four language skills will be
taught: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Stress will be
on the development of practical language skills. Weekly language
laboratory sessions are required. The class will be conducted
progressively in German.
402 Lv 1 German II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite:C in 401
For students who, having developed elementary skills in
German, are ready to increase proficiency in oral comprehension
and in speaking, reading and writing skills. Basic structures and
vocabulary are studied with a view to practical communication.
Language laboratory recordings are part of this course.
403 Lv 1 German III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: C in 402
For students who, having successfully completed German II, are ready
to improve substantially their proficiency in listening, speaking, reading
and writing. This course provides an increased opportunity for
idiomatic usage and self-expression, both oral and written. A variety
of reading selections are introduced. Language laboratory listening
and taping are an integral part of this course. This class is conducted
exclusively in German.
404 Hon German IV
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B or better in 403
For students who, having successfully completed German III, are
ready to improve substantially in their proficiency in listening, speaking,
reading and writing. This course provides an increased opportunity
for idiomatic usage and self-expression, both oral and written. A
great variety of reading selections are introduced, such as children's
stories, Grimm fairytales, detective short stories and a novel. The
writing exercises range from paragraph writing of summaries to creating
a children's story or fairytale into opinion pieces in the format of
an essay. German films in the context of the discussions of modern
German life are also an integral part of this course. This class is conducted
exclusively in German.
420 Lv 1 Italian 1
(Proficiency Stage 1)
Prerequisite: none,
This course is for students who wish to begin the study of
Italian. The course provides a foundation in the basic skills of
reading, writing, listening and speaking. There is written and
oral practice with systematic repetition of words for vocabulary
building. Audiovisual materials, ancillary materials and realia
are utilized. There is weekly work in the language lab.
427 Hon Italian II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: B in 420 and teacher recommendation
This course is for students of proven linguistic ability who are able
to continue the rapid acquisition of new vocabulary and structures. It
continues the development of listening, speaking, reading and writing
skills. Most verb tenses and basic structures are covered. Students will
read and discuss authentic Italian texts. Readings are short episodes
emphasizing practical use of Italian with the goal of developing vocabulary
and fluency. There are weekly language laboratory sessions
including student recording. Films and cultural topics will also be
explored. This course is taught exclusively in Italian.
421 Lv 1 Italian II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: C in 420
For students who have successfully developed strong basic
skills in Italian I. Italian II expands reading, writing,
listening, speaking skills in Italian. Speaking and writing are
further emphasized. Much of the course will be conducted in
Italian. Regular language lab activities are an integral part of
this course.
428 Hon Italian III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: B in 427 and teacher recommendation
This course is for highly motivated students who are able to build
upon a strong foundation of structures and vocabulary. Students will
learn to be more creative in their expression and to use language
independently to inform, narrate, describe, ask questions, persuade
as well as express feelings and attitudes. The analysis of literary and
journalistic excerpts will increase students' vocabulary and ability
to comprehend written texts. Cultural topics and Italian films in the
context of modern Italian life are an integral part of this course. This
class is conducted exclusively in Italian.
422 Lv 1 Italian III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: C in 421
This course builds on previously learned skills of
understanding, speaking, reading and writing Italian. The
vocabulary which is reviewed and introduced will cover such
topics as the arts and drama, politics, the work force, driving,
the environment and multicultural society. Students will be
required to utilize these topics to write creative dialogues and
compositions. Grammatically, students will continue to express
themselves in past, present and future situations, using the
tenses learned in Italian I and Italian II. To express more
abstract situations, the subjunctive will be studied. Selections
from Italian literature will be studied. There will be weekly
work in the language lab.
429 Hon Italian IV:AP Language
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B or better in 422
The goals of this course, as set forth by the College Board, is to
prepare students to perform at a high level of proficiency in the four
basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The
guidelines meet the ACTFL proficiency standards for advanced students.
Upon completing the course, students are expected to be able to
comprehend formal and informal Italian; to speak, read and write with
a high level of proficiency. The course challenges able students while
providing them a means of obtaining college credit and/or placement.
Students will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Examination
in Italian in the spring.
425 Lvl 1 Italian IV
Prerequisite: C in 422 and teacher recommendation
This course builds on previously learned grammar and
vocabulary. Students will be able to express themselves in more
abstract situations as the subjunctive mood will continue to be
presented. Students will learn more about Italian literature as
there will be various readings from Italian novels, plays and
short stories. There will be quarterly projects that will expand
the students' speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills.
The course will be conducted in Italian.
489 Italian Exchange Seminar
Prerequisite: Selection to participate in the exchange program with Italy.
This seminar is intended solely for exchange program participants.
The course will further enhance the students' linguistic skills in listening,
speaking, reading and writing. It provides students with Italian
culture and history. Students are helped in developing oral presentations
and projects to given in the host school. Help with the necessary
documentation for the trip and travel preparations is provided.
NOTE: The proficiency stages for Latin are in accordance with the Massachusetts Foreign Languages Curriculum Framework and represent the level the student will strive to achieve by the end of the course. For further information, please refer to the Massachusetts Department of Education web site: http://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/current.html
440 Lv 1 Latin I
(Proficiency Stage 1)
(Academic Expectation: 1-Writing and 2-Reading)
Prerequisite: Success in English or a
previous foreign language
Latin I is a fast-paced
introduction to inflected language, requiring academic rigor and
attention to detail. Coursework will consist of the basic
grammatical structures of the Latin language (exclusive of the
subjunctive), with emphasis throughout on the language as a
reflection of the values and attitudes of its speakers. Readings
in Roman culture and some study of English vocabulary through its
Latin origins will be included.
441 Lv 1 Latin II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
(Academic Expectation: 1-Writing and 2-Reading)
Prerequisite: C in 440
A continuation of grammatical structures; selected readings in
prose from a variety of sources, with emphasis on placing these
readings within their cultural (historical, social, religious)
context.
442 Lv 1 Latin III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
(Academic Expectation: 1-Writing and 2-Reading, 6-Reasoning, 8-Understanding Context)
Prerequisite: C in 441
A study of Roman civilization through its literature with special
emphasis on the Aeneid of Vergil as a literary/religious
expression of Roman concerns about the Empire and its origins in
the age of Augustus. Supplementary readings from a number of
Roman authors will be included.
446 Hon Latin IV
(Proficiency Stage 4)
(Academic Expectation: 1-Writing and 2-Reading, 6-Reasoning,
8-Understanding Context)
Prerequisite: C in 442 or with consent
of instructor
Readings in Latin literature
444 Lv 1 Mythology
(Academic Expectations: 1-Writing, 2-Reading, 5-Data
Analysis, 8-Understanding Context)
This course will focus on myth as a system of thought, one which enables human beings to ask the important questions about themselves and their world and to answer them through the medium of symbols. The mythologies of three ‘cultures’ – Greek, Babylonian, and American Indian – will be examined in some detail. Topics will include creation myths, trickster stories, hero tales, the journey to the other world, and oral poetry. Open only to seniors.
NOTE: The proficiency stages for Mandarin are in accordance with the Massachusetts Foreign Languages Curriculum Framework and represent the level the student will strive to achieve by the end of the course. For further information, please refer to the Massachusetts Department of Education web site: http://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/current.html
477 Lv 1 Mandarin I
(Proficiency Stage 1)
Prerequisite: none
This course is for students who
wish to begin the study of Mandarin Chinese. Through student-centered
activities, students will learn the four basic language skills of listening,
speaking, reading and writing. The focus will be on the development of
conversational skills. Culture content is also incorporated into instruction.
In addition students will master the Pinyin system and begin the acquisition
of simplified characters as well as develop recognition of traditional
characters. This class will be conducted progressively in Chinese
478 Lv 1 Advanced Mandarin I
(Proficiency Stage 1)
Prerequisite: Some background in Mandarin Studies and teacher recommendation
This course is for students who had some background in Mandarin
prior to high school. Through student centered activities, students will
learn the four basic language skills of listening, speaking, reading
and writing. The focus will be on developing basic writing skills and
advanced conversational skills. Information about Chinese Culture is
also incorporated into the curriculum. In addition, students will master
the Pinyin system and writing simplified characters as well recognizing
traditional characters. For the most part class will be conducted in
Mandarin.
480 Hon Mandarin II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: B or better in 477 or teacher recommendation
This course is for students of proven linguistic ability who are able
to continue the rapid acquisition of new characters and structures.
Written and oral precision will be emphasized. Readings are real-life
dialogues emphasizing proper use of Mandarin Chinese with the goal
of developing vocabulary and fluency. Authentic materials will be
studied. Culture content is incorporated into instruction. Students can
choose to write in either traditional characters or simplified characters.
The majority of the class will be conducted in Mandarin.
479 Lv 1 Mandarin II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: C- in 477 or teacher recommendation
This course is for students who, having successfully developed strong
basic skills, are ready to increase proficiency in oral comprehension,
and, in the speaking, reading and writing skills of Mandarin Chinese.
Readings are real-life dialogues emphasizing proper use of Mandarin
Chinese with the goal of developing vocabulary and fluency. Authentic
materials will be studied. Culture content is incorporated into instruction.
Students can choose to write in either traditional characters or
simplified characters. The majority of the class will be conducted in
Mandarin.
482 Hon Mandarin III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: B or better in 480 or teacher recommendation
This course is for motivated students who are able to build upon a
strong foundation of structures and vocabulary. The rapid acquisition
of grammatical structures and idiomatic vocabulary is emphasized.
The ability to question, to present, to tell stories and to express their
opinions will be emphasized. A variety of authentic reading selections
as well as films will be introduced. Culture content is also incorporated
into instruction. Students can choose to write in either traditional
characters or simplified characters. This class will be conducted in
Mandarin
481 Lv 1 Mandarin III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: C- or better in 479 or teacher recommendation
This course builds on previously learned skills of understanding,
speaking, reading and writing Mandarin Chinese. There will be increased
opportunity for idiomatic usage and self-expression, both oral
and written. A variety of authentic reading selections as well as films
will be introduced. Culture content is also incorporated into instruction.
Students can choose to write in either traditional characters or
simplified characters. This class will be conducted in Mandarin.
484 Hon Mandarin IV
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B or better in 482 or teacher recommendation
This course is for very motivated students who are able to build upon
a strong foundation of structures and vocabulary. The rapid acquisition
of grammatical structures and idiomatic vocabulary is emphasized.
Students are expected to be independent learners. Students will read
and discuss a variety of authentic materials. Oral and written reports
will be an integral part of this course. This course is a prerequisite for
the Mandarin Advanced Placement Language course. Students can
choose to write in either traditional characters or simplified characters.
This class will be conducted in Mandarin.
486 Hon Mandarin V
Chinese AP Language and Culture
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B+ or better in 484 and teacher recommendation
The overall goal of this course, as set forth by the College Board, is
to deepen students' immersion into the language and culture of the
Chinese speaking world, providing students with ongoing and varied
opportunities to further develop their proficiencies across the full
range of language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
The course integrates cultural content knowledge and language skills,
developing proficiencies within the context of students' learning. The
course challenges advanced students while providing them a means to
obtain college credit and/or placement. Students will be prepared
to take the Advanced Placement Chinese Language and Culture in the
spring. Students can choose to write in either traditional characters or
simplified characters.The course is taught exclusively in Mandarin.
496 China Exchange Seminar
Prerequisite:
Selection to participate in the exchange program with China
This seminar is intended solely for exchange program participants.
The course will further enhance the students' linguistic skills in listening,
speaking, reading and writing. It provides students with Chinese
culture and history. Students are helped in developing oral presentations
and projects to be given in the host school. Help with the necessary
documentation for the trip and travel preparations are provided
NOTE: The proficiency stages for Spanish are in accordance with the Massachusetts Foreign Languages Curriculum Framework and represent the level the student will strive to achieve by the end of the course. For further information, please refer to the Massachusetts Department of Education web site: http://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/current.html
450 Lv 1 Spanish I
(Proficiency
Stage 1)
Prerequisite: none
This course is for students who wish to begin the study of
Spanish. All four language skills will be taught: listening,
speaking, reading, writing. Stress will be on the development of
practical language. The class will be conducted in Spanish much
of the time.
430 Lv 2 Spanish I Language and Culture
(Proficiency Stage 1)
Prerequisite: none
This course links the learning of the Spanish language with the study
of the culture of Spanish-speaking regions of the world. The language
component of this course will give students a fundamental social vocabulary
and conversational ability, as well as exposure to topic-related
terminology in Spanish. Students will explore the history of Spain
and the colonial period in Latin America. Particular emphasis will be
placed on authentic linguistic and cultural experiences including an
appreciation for music, art, crafts, food, clothing and celebrations past
and present.
456 Hon Spanish II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: none
This course is conducted solely in Spanish and is for students of
proven linguistic ability. It continues the development of
listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Most verb tenses
and basic structures are covered. There are weekly language
laboratory sessions including student recording. Readings are
short episodes emphasizing practical use of Spanish with the goal
of developing vocabulary and fluency.
451 Lv 1 Spanish II
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: C in 450 or 8th-grade
Spanish and teacher recommendation
For students who, having successfully developed strong basic
skills, are ready to increase proficiency in oral comprehension,
and in speaking, reading and writing skills. Specific attention
is given to vocabulary acquisition. Regular language laboratory
activities are an integral part of this course.
431 Lv 2 Spanish II Language and Culture
(Proficiency Stage 2)
Prerequisite: C- in 430 and teacher recommendation
This course links the learning of the Spanish language with the study
of the culture of Spanish-speaking regions of the world. The language
component of this course will continue to develop social vocabulary
and conversational ability, as well as topic-related terminology in
Spanish. Students will explore the history and culture of Spain. Latin
American history and culture will be explored from the period of independence
to the present. Students will complete in-depth studies of
selected countries and regions where Spanish is spoken. Particular emphasis
will be placed on authentic linguistic and cultural experiences
including an appreciation for music, art, literature, food, clothing and
celebrations past and present.
457 Hon Spanish III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: B in 456
This class is conducted in Spanish. The basic structure of the
language is reviewed and refined. Oral work is stressed through
classroom participation and language lab activities. A variety of
reading material is presented, ranging from Hispanic short
stories to full-length novels. The four skills, listening,
speaking, reading and writing are extensively covered in this
class.
452 Lv 1 Spanish III
(Proficiency Stage 3)
Prerequisite: C in 451
This course builds on previously learned skills of understanding,
speaking, reading and writing Spanish. The grammar which is
reviewed and introduced derives from Spanish and Latin American
reading selections. All grammar points are reviewed and applied
in the writing of structured, individual compositions and oral
reports. Spanish will be used nearly exclusively.
458 - Hon - Spanish IV
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B in 457
This course is for students of proven linguistic ability who can
speak and write in Spanish with good control of basic
constructions and tenses. A variety of methods will be used such
as weekly use of the language laboratory, compositions, readings
from text and literary sources and student presentations. This
course helps prepare students for the SAT II exam and is taught
exclusively in Spanish.
453 Lv 1 Spanish IV
(Proficiency Stage 3-4)
Prerequisite: C in 452
Grammar topics are reviewed and used as the class is
conducted in Spanish. The aural/oral skills are also employed in
the language laboratory. A variety of readings is covered through
short stories, novels and plays. Students further develop
speaking and writing skills when discussing the themes in their
compositions. This course does not prepare students for the
Spanish Advanced Placement exam.
460 - Hon - Spanish AP Language
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B or better in 458 and teacher recommendation
Recommended for seniors only.
The principal goal of the course is to ensure that all students attain an
advanced level of proficiency in the areas of: reading, writing, listening,
and speaking. These skills are never taught in isolation but rather
in an integrative way. The Advanced Placement Spanish Language
Examination is not based on specific course content but instead attempts
to evaluate levels of performance in the use of the language,
both in understanding written and spoken Spanish and in writing
and speaking with ease in correct and idiomatic Spanish. Students
will regularly demonstrate proficiency using each of the three communicative
modes: interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational.
In addition, students will learn to synthesize information amassed
from authentic sources, both print and aural. This course is conducted
exclusively in Spanish and students are expected and encouraged to
use Spanish at all times with their peers and with their teacher. There
will be summer assignments for all students entering the AP Spanish
Language Course. Assignments will include: listening, reading, and
writing activities, journal writing, and a grammatical review. Students
will do an oral presentation the first week of the school year.
459 - Hon - Spanish V, Literature, Culture & Civilization
(Proficiency Stage 4)
Prerequisite: B or better in 458.
Recommended for seniors only.
In this year long course the students will improve their fluency in Spanish through the study of the
Culture, Civilization, and Spanish Literature from different time periods and countries in
the original language. This will include short stories, poetry, a novel and a play.
The works read will be thoroughly discussed in class to develop communication skills, reading
comprehension and vocabulary. This course is for students who want to bcontinue to be challenged
without having to prepare for the AP exam. Course work will include oral reports, written
compositions and text analysis. This course is taught exclusively in Spanish.
454 Lv 1 Spanish V
(Proficiency
Stage 4)
Prerequisite: C in 453
In this culminating course, students will improve their fluency in
Spanish through the use of authentic materials: unsubtitled movies,
short stories, songs, poems, and short plays. Course work will include
the use of the language lab, Internet, and newspapers. There will also
be a cursory review of grammar as necessary.
493 Spanish Exchange Seminar
Prerequisite: Selection to participate
in the exchange program with Spain.
This seminar is intended solely for exchange program
participants. The course will further enhance the students’
linguistic skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. It
provides students with Spanish culture and history. Students are
helped in developing oral presentations and projects to be given
in the host school. Help with the necessary documentation for the
trip and travel preparations are provided.
499 Independent Study
Prerequisite: Program approval by the language teacher and
Department Head
A student/teacher contract containing the goals and program
proposal must be submitted before entering. Time and credit
arrangements will then be made.
Posted Janary 29, 2008 by
Steve Ellis
Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved