Middle School World Language Courses
The overall goals of world language study are effective communication and cultural understanding. The World Language Department at Saint Thomas Academy has adopted the following long-range goals:
· To provide the students with skills which will enable them to communicate orally and in writing with speakers of another language and with people of other nationalities who have also learned the language.
· To bring the students to a greater understanding of people across national boundaries by giving them insight into the ways of life and ways of thinking of the people who speak the language they are learning.
· To increase the students' understanding of how language functions and to bring them, through the study of world languages, to a greater awareness of the functioning of their own language.
· To develop the students' intellectual powers through world language study, training in memory, and the application of logical processes.
· To increase cultural awareness by the study of the literature and philosophy of the target culture.
· To encourage the students to read the world language with comprehension so that they may keep up with modern writing, research, and information.
FRENCH
Introduction to French
This course is an introduction of the French language and culture. The student becomes aware of the French sound system and rhythm and intonation of the language. Functional studies focus on simple vocabulary that acts as a base for future French study. Does not count towards the high school three-year World Language requirement.
Prerequisite: Entrance exam score, instructor's approval
Grade Level: 7
Middle School French I
The study of topics involving weather, time, and seasons; family and friends; the home and neighborhood; and items found in everyday life are the core of this year’s curriculum. Through the use of the basic text and oral comprehension program, the student learns to express himself in the present tense. He also is introduced to the diversity of the French language and culture through carefully planned units that present the French-speaking countries around the world. Does not count towards the high school three-year World Language requirement.
Prerequisite: Instructor's approval
Grade Level: 8
SPANISH
Introduction to Spanish
This course introduces students to the alphabet, sound system, and intonation patterns in Spanish. In addition to developing communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, students also gain an appreciation and understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures. Does not count towards the high school three-year World Language requirement.
Prerequisite: Entrance exam score, instructor's approval
Grade Level: 7
Middle School Spanish I
This course continues to introduce students to the Spanish language and culture. This course allows students to continue their communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish in order to complete their Level 1 requirement. Does not count towards the high school three-year World Language requirement.
Prerequisite: Instructor's approval
Grade Level: 8
LATIN
Latin I
Students comprehend the Latin language through the study of vocabulary, syntax and practice in reading Latin. It is the intent of this course to give the student a facility in reading Latin, an appreciation of Roman history and Roman culture, and a better appreciation of the contribution Latin has made to English. The Latin readings introduce students to mythology and the everyday political and social history of Rome. Does not count towards the high school three-year World Language requirement.
Prerequisite: 2.5 GPA, space availability, instructor's approval
Grade Level: 8
