Sixth Grade Exploratory Latin will serve as an introduction to the Latin language and as a bridge to further foreign language study. As an introduction to Latin grammar and syntax, the course will strengthen students’ ability to analyze and recognize similar structures in other languages. The course will survey elements of Greco-Roman vocabulary and the influence of these languages on English academic vocabulary. The course will also provide an introduction to classical mythology, Roman history, and the Western traditions passed on to us from Rome. One semester.
In Seventh Grade, students will enjoy Exploratory French, Chinese, and Spanish. Each exploratory language course is designed to give the student an introduction to the language and culture. Students learn proper pronunciation, basic vocabulary, and a few grammatical structures useful for written communication. There is also a brief introduction to the geography and culture of the respective countries. Three quarters.
In Eighth Grade, students begin their formal foreign language study enabling them to reach the Advanced Placement level in their senior year. They may elect French, Spanish or Latin or Chinese.
French I
The goal of this course is to give students the basics of the French language, as well as familiarize them with some aspects of French culture. This will be done through the use of web-based assignments including oral assignments, listening and streaming video. Additionally, written communication will be reinforced along with correct grammar and vocabulary usage. By the end of the year students should be able to ask and answer questions, describe pictures, talk about themselves, narrate in the present and, on a limited basis, in the past as well as participate in short conversations where the content involves everyday “survival” topics and courtesy requirements.
Spanish I
This first year course introduces new vocabulary within contexts related to the students’ interests and activities. Approximately sixty to eighty words or expressions per chapter are introduced and stressed. Vocabulary is applied and practiced within one to two grammatical concepts per chapter. Tapes, transparencies, and oral exercises promote comprehension and initiate speaking practice. Written practice is provided through textbook and workbook activities. Written and oral assignments supplement the cultural content that is introduced and discussed throughout the year.
Latin I
The first year of Latin emphasizes vocabulary, word families, translation of Latin into English, comparative grammar, and Classical mythology. By year’s end, the student will be able to translate Latin texts of reasonable complexity. Some Roman legends and basic Roman history of the Monarchy and the Republic will also be covered. Classical mythology units cover basic myths and mythic cycles of the Greeks and Romans. Cultural data will include clothing, food, housing, transportation, games, and pastimes, Roman geography, and the Western traditions passed to us from Rome.
Chinese I
This first-year course is designed to introduce students to the Mandarin language and Chinese customs and culture. Through the course of the year, students will develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities in Mandarin Chinese. A majority of class time will be devoted to listening and speaking while also providing time for students to practice writing radicals, the building blocks of Chinese characters, and the characters themselves.