- WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS
Learning another language benefits students in several ways:
-They can communicate more effectively with native speakers in this country and other nations.
-They gain a better understanding of other cultures.
-Students who study at least two years of a language other than English score significantly higher on the SAT verbal and math test than students who do not complete two years of a world language.
-Most colleges and universities recommend or require the study of at least two years of a world language at the high school level.
-Students are better prepared for potential careers.
-Students who have studied at least two years of a language other than English often receive higher wages and more opportunities for career advancement than students who do not.
- COURSE DESCRIPTIONS/GOALS
SPANISH 1 (Grades 9-12 - no prerequisite): Spark initial interest, alphabet, numbers 1-1000, activities vocabulary, fruits/vegetables, places, family, movies/TV, basic verb conjugation, appreciation for Spanish-speaking cultures, basic conversation in present tense, limited conversation in past & future tenses. As much Spanish as possible, with frequent English translations.
SPANISH 2 (Grades 9-12 - SPANISH 1 prerequisite*): Reinforce initial interest, vocabulary for celebrations, extracurricular activities, clothing, childhood, school, personal possessions, directions, medicine, movies/TV, professions, basic conversation in multiple past, present & future tenses, comparisons, possessives, and special verbs. As much Spanish as possible, with limited English translations.
SPANISH 3 (Grades 10-12 - SPANISH 2 prerequisite): Continue honing the skills acquired in SPANISH 1 & 2. In class, students are expected to communicate primarily in Spanish. Accuracy in syntax and pronunciation is important. Students gain a deeper understanding of the mechanics of the Spanish language through personal expression and creativity in speech and writing. Students examine Spanish-speaking cultures through a variety of sources. A successful student will effectively communicate ideas and opinions in Spanish using a wide variety of words, expressions and grammatical elements. As much Spanish as possible, with few English translations.
- RECOMMENDATIONS
I also encourage my students to purchase a Spanish-English dictionary and/or to learn how to effectively use online translation sites.
Lastly, I am here for any student seeking help. Learning another language is rarely easy, so I expect my students to ask questions and to let me know if they're having trouble.