MS World Languages
The formal study of world languages begins in grade 7 with level 1A classes in Chinese, French, Latin, or Spanish. The sequence is continued in the 8th grade 1B classes in the four languages, thus completing the first year of the language in two sections. For new 8th- or 9th-grade students, or for any students deciding to change languages, Chinese 1C, French 1C, Latin 1C, and Spanish 1C are offered, covering in one year the material taught in two years of Middle School study.
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The goal of this course is to give students a basic understanding of Chinese language and culture. In Chinese IA, students learn how to read and write 200 Chinese characters, as well as how to conduct daily conversations in Chinese Pinyin (Chinese phonological system). Strokes and radicals will be taught first, followed by common topics including self-introduction, family, dates and time, hobbies, asking directions, visiting friends, and shopping. Chinese culture and history will also be introduced as a supplementary part of this course.
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This course reinforces and furthers the language skills mastered in Chinese IA. The emphasis of the course will be on oral proficiency and reading skills. With more topics covered, students will be able to conduct elementary-level conversations. New characters and phrases will be introduced to strengthen the students’ reading skills; more time will be given to studying the writing system of Chinese. The methods of inputting Chinese on PC and Mac computers will be covered as well. Some authentic materials will be used to help students explore various aspects of Chinese culture.
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In the context of youth-oriented Francophone culture and customs, students build on basic vocabulary and communicative skills as they expand their knowledge of French grammar and begin to develop skills of comprehension and communication in the areas of writing, speaking, and listening. Active participation in class activities is required; students work in pairs and small groups to perform meaningful communicative activities. Before the end of the second trimester, students are expected to only speak in French in the classroom.
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This course continues the study of French language and culture begun in French 1A. Students expand their knowledge of La Francophonie and Francophone countries in West Africa. Students reinforce their communication and comprehension skills in the areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking as they build an extensive vocabulary and deepen their knowledge of grammatical structures. Students are expected to only speak in French throughout the year.
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An introduction to the Latin language and Roman culture, this course lays the foundation for the future study of Latin. Prominence is given to recognizing and replicating grammar structures and to accumulating vocabulary. These knowledge bases support development in comprehension and interpretation. Additional practice in composition and translation enriches a student’s command of the language. Students will learn geography of the ancient city, foundation myths, and early Roman history through reading Latin and English selections.
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Students continue strengthening their fundamentals introduced in Latin 1A. In addition, continued prominence is given to Latin’s presence in the sciences, English vocabulary, and everyday life in the 21st Century. Reading skills are further developed by engaging with increasingly complex grammatical concepts and applying them to Latin readings of increasing difficulty. Students engage with the legacy of Roman civilization through studying various aspects including Roman expansion, technological developments, and urban planning.
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In the context of youth-oriented Spanish and Latin American culture and customs, students build on basic vocabulary and communicative skills as they expand their knowledge of Spanish grammar and begin to develop skills of comprehension and communication in the areas of reading and writing. In addition, language study skills are stressed. The class is held primarily in Spanish, and active participation in class activities is expected. Students work in pairs and in small groups to perform meaningful communication activities.
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This course continues the study of Spanish language and culture begun in Spanish 1A. Students reinforce their communication and comprehension skills in the areas of reading, speaking, writing, and listening as they build an extensive vocabulary and deepen their knowledge of grammatical structures. Through multiple projects and activities, students develop communicative competence of the four language skills.
