World Languages Courses

FRENCH 1 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None

This college preparatory course for beginners introduces students to the fundamental communication skills of the French language. Students gradually acquire the following skills : 1) basic comprehension of the spoken language; 2) ability to respond orally to questions posed in French; 3) ability to ask questions in French and to carry on a conversation with comprehensible pronunciation; 4) ability to write with some precision what one has learned how to say; 5) ability to interpret readings about the peoples and cultures of the French-speaking world. Students learn to speak in the present and conversational future tenses about topics relating to everyday life: school, family, social life, sports, leisure and recreation, getting information, making purchases, ordering food and travel. The past tense is also introduced and practiced orally and in writing.



FRENCH 1 PLUS – 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
Prerequisite: Previous study of French at middle school level or level 1 at high school level

French 1 Plus will be an accelerated French 1 program for those students who have previously studied French yet have not mastered the material needed to enter French 2. Students will learn basic French vocabulary, grammar, culture and conversation and will practice speaking, writing, listening and reading skills. French 1 Plus will be supplemented with additional cultural activities, readings and enrichment activities that are not included in the French 1 Curriculum.


FRENCH 2 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 1

In this course, partially conducted in French, students continue to develop all five communication skills introduced in French 1. Students learn how to speak and write in the past tense. Students deepen their understanding of the structure of the French language and how native speakers express themselves idiomatically. The vocabulary and the topics for conversation and reading relate largely to the typical experiences of young people here and in French-speaking countries. Students strengthen their ability to express themselves with increasing precision, both orally and in writing, as they describe people, places, objects, thoughts and feelings, situations and experiences.
FRENCH 2 H — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 1 and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

This is an accelerated course intended for students who are highly skilled in previously introduced areas of communication in French and have demonstrated an ability to handle a greater workload. In this course, conducted almost entirely in French, students work toward mastery of all five of the communication skills introduced in French 1. Students work at an accelerated pace and acquire a more extensive and detailed knowledge of French language structure, vocabulary and idiomatic expression. In addition to conversational and written work in the present and future time frames, students strengthen their ability to speak and write in the past and imperfect tenses. The vocabulary and the topics for conversation relate largely to the typical experiences of young people here and in French-speaking countries. Students learn to express themselves with precision, both orally and in writing, as they describe people, places, objects, thoughts and feelings, situations and experiences.

FRENCH 3 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 2

This course, conducted in French, is intended to expand students' knowledge of French language structure and vocabulary, as well as to enhance their facility in all phases of communication in the target language. Students are introduced to some of the more advanced linguistic concepts that will be pursued in greater depth in French 4 and French 5. Reading, writing and speaking assignments relate to the geography, history and contemporary culture of the French-speaking world and enable students to draw comparisons with contemporary American culture.


FRENCH 3 H — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 2 H

This course, conducted in French, is designed for students who have proved to be highly skilled in previous course work, as well as highly motivated to handle a greater workload. It is intended to expand students' knowledge of French language structure and vocabulary and to enhance their facility in all phases of communication in the target language. Students receive an intensive introduction to many of the more advanced linguistic concepts that will be pursued in greater depth in French 4 H and French 5 H. Most reading, writing and speaking assignments relate to contemporary culture in the French-speaking world and allow for comparisons with contemporary American culture. In addition, students in this course receive an introduction to the study of French literature.


FRENCH 4 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 3

Students in this course pursue in greater depth the advanced linguistic concepts introduced in French 3. At the same time, they broaden their knowledge of practical vocabulary and idiomatic expression. The emphasis is on self-expression in speaking and in writing. Developing conversational facility and an acceptable standard of written expression are two key goals. Additional readings in the target language enhance awareness of French history and French-speaking cultures. This class is conducted in French.
FRENCH 4 H — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 3 H

Students pursue in greater depth the advanced linguistic concepts introduced in French 3 H, while at the same time expanding their knowledge of practical vocabulary and idiomatic usage. Two key goals of this course are to develop the students' conversational facility and to achieve a level of written expression to communicate thoughts easily and effectively with others who use standard French. Students continue their introduction to French literature by sampling a variety of works by a number of French authors.


AP FRENCH LANGUAGE 5 and 5 H — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: French 4, 4 H

This course comprises the definitive study of the advanced concepts of French language structure along with preparation and practice in advanced conversation. The goal is fluency in both writing and speaking, so that students will be able to go on to apply their skill and knowledge for further study and practical use. The goals of greater literary awareness, appreciation and understanding are pursued, as students read two complete works of French literature in the original language. This course also offers preparation for national tests, such as Advanced Placement.

FRENCH 6/6H – I Unit of credit – Students who have successfully completed French 5 with a “B” or above
Prerequisites: Previous study of the French language at Level 5 of 5H; grade of “B” or above, high school teacher recommendation, and Instructional Director recommendation

This course requires definitive study of the advanced concepts of the French language structure, along with preparation and practice in advanced conversation, grammar, writing and literature. The goal is fluency in these skills; so that students will be able to go on to apply their skills and knowledge for further study and practical use. A variety of literary selections in the target language are integrated into the course if study. The goals of greater literary and cultural awareness, as will as appreciation and understanding are pursued. French 6/6H gives students an individualized opportunity to develop writing skills in moiré depth through participation in a writing workshop. Students will also participate in a reading workshop and will be required to read one novel of play outside of class and prepare a presentation on the reading. Bi-monthly class discussions on a variety of topics allow students to continue to develop fluency in the spoken language. Film is used to enhance literary study and discussion. This course will be conducted in French and offers preparation for national tests such as Advanced Placement.


GERMAN

GERMAN 1 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None

This college preparatory course for beginners introduces the students to the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing German. Students are expected to communicate orally and in writing simple sentences about topics like greetings and introductions, time and dates, directions to and from places, the school day, young people and their activities. Cultural aspects of German speaking countries are continually interwoven. Grammatically, students are expected to know the present tense of verbs, subject and object cases of nouns and pronouns, cardinal and ordinal numbers, locational prepositions, modal auxiliaries and questions. This course is appropriate to all levels of students.


GERMAN 2 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: German 1

This course is a continuation of German 1. The essentials of grammatical constructions are extended to include the past tense of verbs, verb-end position and verb-second position, dative verbs, adjective endings, the indirect object case of nouns and pronouns, comparison, and introduction of subjective. Communications are more complex than in the previous course and students are expected to express ideas, give reasons, and discuss cause and effect, in writing and orally. Culture is an integral part of the course, and students are exposed to authentic material, in print, audio and video. This course is appropriate for any level student who fulfills the prerequisite.


GERMAN 3 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: German 2

This course continues to expand oral and written skills. The class is conducted in the target language. Students are expected to discuss issues and opinions. Reading selections are varied to include different genres of literature. In grammar, students study the passive voice, indirect discourse, dative and accusative prepositions, the genitive, relative clauses and specific prepositional uses. German culture continues to be woven into the material, especially because of the use of authentic materials. The course is appropriate for all levels of students who fulfill the prerequisite requirements.


GERMAN 4 — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: German 3

This course offers the student extensive opportunities to experience German literature, language, and grammar. A variety of literary selections in the form of plays, poetry, short stories, periodicals, and novels are integrated into the course of study. Students are expected to write essays or journal entries at least once a week and all communications are expected to demonstrate some fluency. Students are expected to report on events or readings at some length. Students also encounter the cultural components of the language via a multi-faceted approach, which includes the study of German art, film, music, media, and lifestyle.


AP GERMAN LANGUAGE 2H, 3H, 4H — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

Honors courses are designed for the student, who in previous years of study, has displayed extraordinary talent. This incorporates more sophisticated vocabulary in aural-oral skills as well as in written expression of grammatical structures and concepts.


LATIN

LATIN 1 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None

The Latin 1 course introduces the beginning student to the fundamentals of Latin grammar and syntax which provide the skills required for reading, understanding and appreciating Latin literature. The grammar content of the course includes the declensions of nouns, formation of adjectives, the tenses and uses of Latin verbs, a strong first-year vocabulary with emphasis on English derivatives and development of reading skills in the target language. The course also introduces the student to the culture and early history of the Romans and the basic themes and characters of Greek and Roman mythology. The relationship of the Greco-Roman world to the modern world is stressed throughout the course. The student will gain an expanded knowledge of English grammar and vocabulary and the development of reading and word-analysis skills. The complexity of language requires strong memorization and disciplined study skills. Since Latin is not a spoken language, this course may appeal to students who do not wish to pursue a modern language but still wish to take a language course.


LATIN 2 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Latin 1

After a review of the first year, the Latin 2 course builds upon the foundation laid in the introductory year by continuing the instruction of Latin grammar and syntax. Attention is given to building and solidifying the student’s basic vocabulary through additional exposure to English derivatives. Specific content includes the subjunctive mood and its use in subordinate clauses, participles, infinitives and the structure of complex sentences. The second year focuses specifically on strengthening reading and translation skills. Aspects of Roman daily life are developed more fully and the students will gain additional insight into the late Republic period.


LATIN 3 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Latin 2

Latin 3 begins with a thorough review of Latin grammar and syntax. Mastery of the basic language structures of Latin is expected and enhanced throughout the year through practical exercises and direct application in the reading material. This third year investigates the fall of the Republic and the rise of the Empire as found in readings from ancient authors such as Cicero, Eutropius, Asconius, Augustus, and Pliny.


LATIN 4 – 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Latin 3

This course works toward developing facile reading skills in the target language. Students will review essential points of grammar to solidify their understanding of the language. Readings in the course continue to explore authors that deal with significant historical periods in Roman history. Students will also gain some exposure to oral Latin via the Forum Romanum video series.


LATIN 2H, 3H, 4H — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

The Honors courses are designed for students who display extraordinary talent in the language. In addition to the descriptions listed above, the Honors designation requires additional exercises and translation work including more sophisticated vocabulary and syntactical structures. Though not officially designated Advanced Placement, the Honors course sequence in the fourth and fifth year reads the texts for the Latin Advanced Placement exams. Students who opt for the Honors credit should therefore complete their introductory years with this goal in mind.


AP LATIN LITERATURE 5 H — 1 Unit of credit Junior, Seniors
Prerequisite: Latin 4 or 4 H or teacher permission

This course will prepare successful students for the Advanced Placement Exam (either the Catullus-Ovid or the Vergil exam) through in-class readings as well as outside reading material. Additional readings may be selected from the writings of Cicero, Nepos, Tacitus, Martial, and Horace.


SPANISH

SPANISH 1 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None

This is a college preparatory course designed to introduce beginners to the fundamental skills of communication in Spanish. Students learn to communicate orally and in writing. Simple sentences deal with greetings, introductions, time, dates, the weather and youth’s daily activities. Students learn to correctly use such grammatical structures as the present indicative, object pronouns and other structures and vocabulary presented in the first year textbook. Cultural aspects are presented in each unit and are discussed to enhance cultural awareness of the students. Those who have successfully completed a first year course in Spanish are expected to enroll in second year.


SPANISH 1 PLUS – 1 Unit of credit Freshman
Prerequisites: Previous study of the Spanish language; middle school or high school teacher recommendation

This course is for the student who may have had 1 or more years of study in the Spanish language but who has not yet mastered the concepts needed in order to be successful at the Spanish 2 level. This course will be taught at a faster pace than that of Spanish 1. Grammar concepts to be mastered include: present tense verb conjugation, the present progressive tense, adjective agreement m comparatives/superlatives, reflexive verbs, subject pronouns, possessive pronouns, interrogatives and object pronouns. A wealth of practical vocabulary such as family, classroom, everyday expressions, hobbies/sports etc. will be mastered so as to build on oral and written proficiencies. Cultural topics will be integrated and there will be oral and written assessment. There is an emphasis on the application and synthesis of the concepts and material taught; and successful completion of the course satisfies the prerequisites for Spanish II.


SPANISH 2 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 1 with C or better and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

Initially the material covered in Spanish 1 is reviewed. Then the preterite and imperfect past tenses, the present subjunctive, present and past perfect and the present progressive structures and uses are studied. Communication is more complex because students are exposed to a variety of tenses and a wider vocabulary. The expanded vocabulary includes words and expressions a young person needs to talk about himself and others in everyday situations. Students narrate present and past experiences, talk about future hopes, describe, compare and contrast, give opinions and make judgments. This course stresses continued development of oral skills and listening comprehension. The class is frequently conducted in the target language. As the school year progresses, emphasis on reading and writing increases. Notetaking, class participation and daily preparation are required. Students who maintain a minimum of a C average are encouraged to continue to the third level of Spanish.


SPANISH 2 H — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 1 and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

This course is for students who are very talented language learners, i.e., those who learn new grammatical structures and vocabulary with ease and can assimilate them with facility. In addition, students must be able to handle a greater workload than in Spanish 2. A wider vocabulary and a more detailed study of grammar are included in the Honors level of second year Spanish and students are expected to come closer to mastering the content of the textbook than students in Spanish 2 regular. There is more reading and more writing in the Honors class. Spanish is used in conducting classes and students are expected to communicate in Spanish while in class.


SPANISH 3 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 2 and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

This course begins with a review of grammar introduced in Spanish 2. Grammar not studied during the first two years is introduced. Many worksheets and written exercises are used as well as using the language interactively. This is achieved in part through the use of creative writing assignments such as the preparation of dialogues. To help reinforce the grammar and vocabulary studied, short compositions are occasionally required. Videos and selected short readings stress cultural aspects of the Spanish speaking world. The class is conducted in Spanish.


SPANISH 3 H — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 2 H with C or Spanish 2 with current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

This course reviews and expands all grammar structures of Spanish 2 H and introduces new structures including correlation of tenses and modes. Classroom conversation is based, in part, on vocabulary units related to contemporary every-day situations. In addition, a variety of short readings as well as a full length play are used as a basis for employing the grammar in discussions and in the writing of essays. All selections are read and discussed in the target language. Vocabulary is enriched and grammar structures will be mastered in greater detail than at the regular level.


SPANISH 4 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 3 and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

During the first semester, emphasis is on the acquisition of more vocabulary as well as the study of the subjunctive mood and the passive voice. The third year textbook is used. Other elements of grammar are reviewed informally and selectively. Short readings and short stories are used as a basis for employing the grammar in discussions and in the writing of essays. Students are encouraged to begin expressing ideas and opinions in Spanish through the use of complex sentence structures. During the second semester, contemporary Hispanic literature will be read and discussed. Students are graded on their participation in discussions of this play as well as through the use of essay exams. Instruction, discussion and writing are done in Spanish.


SPANISH 4 H — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 3 H and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

This class works toward mastery of the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. This is accomplished through grammar review, vocabulary unit related to contemporary situations, and a survey of Spanish literature. Selections are read and discussed in their historical, artistic, and philosophical contexts, and students write essays relating to the topics suggested by these readings. The course is taught in the target language, and students are expected to discuss the material exclusively in Spanish.


SPANISH 5 — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 4 and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

This class is conducted in Spanish and includes a complete review of grammar using a textbook with explanations and exercises, readings from Spanish language magazines and contemporary Hispanic authors, periodic written exams and short compositions. The readings are used to build vocabulary, to increase awareness of things happening in the Hispanic world and to improve conversational skills.


AP SPANISH LANGUAGE 5 H — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Spanish 4 H and current teacher or Instructional Director recommendation

Short narratives written by contemporary Hispanic authors are discussed and short answer and essay exams are written about the works discussed in class. Articles from Spanish and Hispanic magazines and newspapers are read and discussed for the purposes of improvement of pronunciation, cultural awareness, building vocabulary and strengthening conversational skills. The most complicated grammatical structures are formally reviewed and other grammar is reviewed as the need is perceived by students and/or the instructor. By May, students may opt to take the Spanish Language Advanced Placement exam and special practice for this experience is given in the third quarter. All students are to use the target language throughout the year. Films shown in school and, when the opportunities arise, field trips to theaters and museums supplement the classroom work, adding more vivid cultural content to that gained from the required readings.


ACADEMICS