Summary
The main objective of foreign language study is to make our students aware of the world in which they live and of the diverse cultures, which exist outside of their own. In the global community of the 21st century, students must be linguistically and culturally equipped to communicate successfully both in a pluralistic American society and abroad. One credit in foreign language is necessary to meet graduation requirements. Refer to Advanced Regents requirements here.
Please note that additional languages may be offered via Distance Learning.
Languages Other Than English Course Descriptions
Spanish I
Grades 8 – 12
1 credit
Students develop the four types of skills in a foreign language: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will practice basic speaking and writing skills through short dialogues and short paragraphs. Students will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of grammar and vocabulary through oral and written exercises in texts and workbooks. Students are questioned frequently to assure comprehension. Pronunciation is practiced daily during a conversation period. Culture is included throughout the year. Students will develop a good basic vocabulary, will correctly use verbs in the present tense, have daily strong pronunciation skills and will converse within these parameters.
Spanish II
Grades 9 – 12
1 credit
A review of Spanish I start off the year. Students will be involved in “situational” conversations communicating in Spanish. They will continue to develop their skills through oral and written work concentrating on proper grammar and vocabulary usage. Students will continue to reinforce language communication in present tense while learning to use past tense.
Spanish III
Grades 10 – 12
1 credit
Prerequisite: A passing grade of 70% in Spanish II
The third year of Spanish culminates with a locally developed examination. The listening comprehension and speaking skills are strengthened further as the comprehension and writing skills increase. Proper grammar and vocabulary usage will continue to be stressed.
Spanish IV
Grades 11 – 12
1 credit
Spanish IV includes a thorough review of vocabulary and grammar acquired during the first three years of study as well as exposure to additional listening and reading topics, including business and other academic content. Students will speak and write about varied topics and use technology to thoroughly investigate the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries and produce multi-media projects. Students use Spanish for communication in the classroom with directions and information delivered in Spanish. Students work individually, in pairs and in small groups daily.
Spanish 201
Grade 12
3 credits
Prerequisite: Spanish IV and/or instructor placement
Study of the language through a continuation of audio-lingual learning, with emphasis on review of basic grammatical patterns, improvement of reading and writing skills. Reading exercises offer insights into Spanish and Spanish-American culture.
Spanish 202
Grade 12
3 credits
Prerequisite: Spanish 201
Emphasis is given to advanced grammatical patterns, such as the subjunctive mood and the passive voice. Conversation based on everyday vocabulary is encouraged to help students develop further their listening and speaking abilities.