Students at Prospect Sierra begin their study of world languages in fifth grade, selecting French or Spanish. Recognizing that language is social, classes meet in small groups and cooperative activities are an integral part of the curriculum. In learning a second language, students draw on their knowledge of the world around them and on skills developed in the language arts program.
In each grade, students learn in a safe environment in which, as often as possible, only the target language is spoken. Students learn about the cultures of many different French- and Spanish-speaking countries through art, history, geography, music, cinema, celebration of holidays, service learning activities, special projects, and the Internet as a means to reach out to the world. The cultural experience inherent in our world languages program supports the school’s commitment to developing positive attitudes toward cultural diversity.
Fifth Grade
In fifth grade, students meet three times per week to begin their study of either French or Spanish. Both language programs place emphasis on oral communication, with an introduction to reading and writing. Students learn through a wide variety of communication-based activities. Methods such as Total Physical Response, oral games, and songs support the understanding that language is social in nature. Students begin to focus on five objectives within the world languages curriculum: Communication, Culture, Connection, Comparison, and Community.
Sixth Grade
In sixth grade, world languages classes continue to meet three times per week. Students increase their communication skills through listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Our textbook facilitates the introduction to and the understanding of grammatical forms. Classes engage in reading exercises, grammar-based lessons, and communication activities in groups or pairs. Students study vocabulary, complete written exercises, and explore the cultures and geography of their target language.
Seventh Grade
In seventh grade, world languages classes meet four times per week. Teaching occurs predominantly in the target language and students learn a much wider range of grammatical structures and idioms. Students augment their ability to express themselves in oral and written contexts. They learn to use the present, past, and near future tenses in all communication forms. Students further their exploration and understanding of cultures through readings, teacher presentations, Internet research, videos, and recordings.
Eighth Grade
In eighth grade, world languages classes continue to meet four times per week. The courses cover a wide range of material, allowing students to review and expand their practical vocabulary and further explore the grammatical rules. Class is conducted primarily in their chosen language. Students continue to develop the ability to express themselves orally in the context of the classroom. Students write short stories, dialogues, journal entries, poems and other works on appropriate themes. Those who successfully complete the middle school curriculum will be prepared for an intermediate level course in high school.
