Foreign Language
Course Descriptions
The primary goal in the foreign language classroom is language proficiency or the ability to use the language for purposeful communication. Communicative proficiency requires a degree of proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking. The focus of proficiency in the Latin classroom is on reading and translating. Instruction in a proficiency-based program is organized around basic functions such as asking and answering questions, telling time, describing events that happened in the past, reading directions, etc. Grammar is taught in context to support these functions.
The teaching of culture is integrated into the curriculum with authentic representations from the target culture (art, music, history, advertisements, comics, films, live performances, etc.) Our foreign language curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts State Frameworks. This ensures that students are given the opportunity to meet both state and Federal foreign language standards for proficiency.
Suggested prerequisites: Students must have a willingness to speak in the foreign language; an interest in learning about world cultures; the ability to memorize vocabulary and grammar structures; good listening skills; good ability in spelling. It is strongly recommended that students earn a grade of 78 or better to advance to the next level of foreign language study.
This is a beginning course with an emphasis on conversational French and basic grammar. In this class various aspects of the French speaking world including the culture, customs, foods and daily life in France, Quebec, the Ivory Coast and Martinique are explored.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CT, SC
In this second level course students learn more advanced grammar while expanding their conversational, reading, and writing skills. By year’s end, students are able to express themselves in the past, present and future in a variety of topics including ordering in a café, shopping, making plans, exchanging personal information, discussing school and holidays. Cultural projects include an in-depth study of Paris and the Quebecois culture.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CT, PS, SC
In this course students complete learning all major grammar. Students use their previously acquired skills to explore a variety of Francophone cultures, customs, literature, short stories, food, art and music.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CR, CT, PS, SC
This year surveys various readings from literature to contemporary items. Literature is studied in an historical context to French history and works covered include Cyrano de Bergerac, Le Comte de Monte Cristo, Le Petit Prince, Le Petit Nicholas, Jean de Florette and Manon de la Source.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CR, CT, PS, SC
An introductory course, Latin I stresses vocabulary, grammar and translation. Students learn of Roman civilization through projects. They find evidence of Roman culture in their own civilization.
Student Expectations: CT, PS
Vocabulary and grammar skills increase and find use in translations as students pick up speed and accuracy. Translating The Twelve Labors of Hercules and Jason and the Argonauts prepares students for work on Caesar. They study Caesar in his time and the Roman army. They translate from his Commentaries on the Gallic Wars. Students also translate some adventures of Ulysses to conclude the year.
Student Expectations: CR
Students use Ecce Romani 3 and 4 for review of grammar and vocabulary and further exposure to Roman culture. They use Jenney's Third Year Latin and translate from Cicero, Sallust, Pliny, Ovid and some later Latin writers.
Student Expectations: CR, CT
Students use Ecce Romani 5 for grammar review. They learn of the transition from Republic to Empire and the turmoil of the politics of the time. They use Jenney's Fourth Year Latin and study Vergil and his time. They translate sections of the Aeneid and read the complete work in English translation. Some works of Ovid, Catullus, Horace, and Martial conclude the year.
Student Expectations: CR, CT
This is a beginning course with an introduction to conversation, reading, and writing. Extensive vocabulary will be stressed. Topics include talking about oneself, school, family, shopping, sports and travel.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, SC, Social
Oral and written use of the language increases. Several new tenses and more complex grammatical structures are introduced. Cultural topics include clothing, courtesy, customs, conquest of the New World, Latin American indigenous people, rainforests, currency and Hispanic customs and holidays.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CR, CT, PS, SC
Oral use of the language is emphasized. Students will learn the majority of the verb tenses. Composition and dialogues increase their writing skills. Selections of Spanish literature will be introduced. Cultural aspects will focus on fashion, transportation, commercials, Mexican and Spanish history, the ancient civilizations of the Americas, past times and Hispanic customs.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CR, CT, PS, SC, Social, Civic
Oral communication is emphasized. Verb tenses and grammar are reviewed extensively. Literature selections will include Don Quijote and modern Spanish prose. Students will study Spanish art and will focus on El Greco, Velazquez, Goya, Picasso, Dali, and Kahlo.
Student Expectations: AL, EC, CR, CT, PS, SC, Social, Civic