GOAL:

The fundamentals of learning these languages are centered in four skill areas: Listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis is placed on mastering vocabulary and grammatical structures presented in a thematic approach, which enables the student to use the language in a meaningful context.

Study of the culture of the native countries is an integral part of the program as behavior, values, and attitudes are closely examined. Classes involve frequent testing, requiring continual and ongoing student effort, which is vital to progress and achievement.

Learning a foreign language is an important tool. It can be used not only to communicate, but also to better understand other cultures and peoples. Through the exploration of language we gain insight into the rich history, traditions and values of others. In addition, this learning process leads us to a closer examination of ourselves. Ideally, this process helps students to build tolerance, to erase stereotypes and to comprehend the nature of our global community.

CURRICULUM:

(Two years of study in the same language is required for graduation)

• ROMANCE LANGUAGES:
   

  • Spanish I

  • Spanish II

  • Spanish III

  • Honors/AP Spanish

  • Spanish Culture and Conversation

  • French I

  • French II

  • French III

  • AP French IV
     

• JAPANESE

• Japanese I

• Japanese II

The fundamentals of the Japanese language are presented in four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Emphasis is on basic vocabulary and grammatical structures presented in a thematic approach that enables the student to use the language in a meaningful context. Culture is an integral part of the program: the behavior, values, attitudes and experiences of young Japanese will be examined. The primary focus will be on enhancing oral production. Students will begin acquiring a working knowledge of kanji.