World Languages

Spanish -
Instructional Philosophy

Students will be given the opportunity (and are encouraged to) engage in fluent conversation in Spanish, focusing on both speaking and listening to enhance comprehension. Class activities will center around interactive discussions and real-world scenarios that promote authentic communication.

Students will practice grammar in context to support their fluency, viewing it as a tool for effective expression. They are welcome to bring in topics or materials that interest them, fostering a personal connection to the language.

A supportive environment will encourage students to practice speaking, make mistakes, and seek feedback, all aimed at developing their ability to communicate confidently and fluently in Spanish.

Spanish -
Course Goals

"Our primary goal is to develop students' fluency and comprehension in Spanish through immersive and interactive experiences. A testament to this approach is our student Olivia, who began her Spanish journey unable to say even basic greetings. Through dedicated practice and engagement, she has grown into a nearly fluent and confident speaker.

To foster this growth, we incorporate cultural cooking projects that not only teach Spanish vocabulary but also immerse students in the rich traditions of Spanish-speaking communities. These hands-on activities provide a tangible connection to the language, enhancing both comprehension and vocabulary.

Assignments often involve listening to Ms. Alvorado speak in Spanish and responding in real-time. For example, students might be asked to share what they did over vacation, allowing them to practice conversational skills in a supportive environment. This real-time interaction encourages quick thinking and reinforces their listening abilities, paving the way for greater fluency.

Overall, our course goals focus on cultivating confident communicators who can engage meaningfully in Spanish, just like Olivia.

Click the video below to see Olivia's work.

Olivia's Work

French-
Instructional Philosophy

Students progress through Learning Targets (LT), or Steps, of gradually increasing language complexity. Students move on to more challenging material as they acquire more language. At all levels, students are developing strategies to derive meaning from level-appropriate spoken and written material, as well as to convey a level-appropriate comprehensible message in speech and writing. Whenever possible, the arts are specifically connected to the instruction, often with cultural connections to the countries where the target language is spoken.

Graduation Requirements

2024 - 2025 Course Catalog

In all French language courses, students will develop essential conversational skills, including how to introduce themselves, discuss everyday topics like the weather, and engage in basic dialogue. The curriculum will provide a comprehensive foundation in French vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, while also exploring the rich cultural context of the language. In addition to traditional language instruction, students will gain insight into the diverse Francophone world by learning about the countries where French is spoken across the globe. To deepen their understanding and appreciation of the language, students will immerse themselves in a variety of engaging materials, such as music, film, and art, offering a dynamic and well-rounded approach to language acquisition.