Westfield's World Languages Department provides many ways for students to participate in a variety of foreign language clubs and honor societies. Opportunities to attend Governor's School for Foreign Language, Internships with the U.S. State Department, and senior scholarships are available. Also, students may interact with students from other language classes during such activities as the department's Winter Fest, National Foreign Language week, or the Bowling Championship.

Foreign language teachers using the Renaissance 2200 Learning System lab; Westfield High School is piloting the lab for the county.

American Sign Language (ASL) Levels I, II, III
French I,II, III, IV, V, AP French Language,AP French Literature
German I, II, III, IV, V, AP German Language
Japanese I, II, III, IV, V, Advanced Japanese, AP Japanese Language
Latin I, II, III, IV, AP Latin
Spanish I, II, III, IV, V, AP Spanish Language, AP Spanish Literature
Spanish for Fluent Speakers I,II, III

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AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL) 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: None

Students learn a basic vocabulary of 1000 signs and acquire knowledge of the manual alphabet. Students learn the language through lessons presented in context and through meaningful and experiential activities. Cultural awareness and cross-cultural adjustment skills are major components of the course. Students are introduced to Deaf culture, the history of American Sign Language, and the education of Deaf people. This course may be counted as a foreign language course in fulfilling requirements for graduation.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL) 2
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test

Students continue to increase their skills in American Sign Language. They will add to their vocabulary and increase proficiency in grammatical features and conversational skills. Knowledge of and sensitivity to the Deaf culture and the community of Deaf people will continue to be emphasized. This course may be counted as a foreign language course in fulfilling requirements for graduation.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL) 3
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 2 or equivalency test

Students add vocabulary and idiomatic expressions to preexisting vocabulary base. Language functions and increasingly difficult grammatical structures are learned in the context of everyday interactions and social relationships. While Levels 1 and 2 emphasized expression of concrete information, Level 3 progresses to expression of abstract concepts. Role-play situations which predict everyday deaf-hearing encounters are used for the development of cultural awareness and cross-cultural adjustment skills. Students also investigate career opportunities associated with American Sign Language and Deaf Culture.

Supplemental Information for American Sign Language 1, 2, and 3:

Describe a typical lesson in this class:

This is a hands-on learning class. We have many interactive activities and role plays. The majority of each class is taught in ASL. We use written English, pictures, and gestures to clarify and learn ASL. Spoken English is rarely used. Since ASL does not have a written form, written work is not common. Conversational use is highly emphasized. Visual and hands-on learners tend to do VERY well in this class. Students who are more auditory or have fine motor skill problems sometimes find this class a challenge.

What kind of homework is required?

Homework is given once or twice a week. Most of the time there is no homework over the weekend or on holidays. Types of homework include: creating sentences using recently learned vocab, practicing signing using a certain grammar principle, or reading cultural information. There is at least one project each quarter and time is given during class to work on it. Studying vocabulary is expected every night.
What kinds of materials are used in this course?

Pictures/Objects
Internet
Videos and DVD’s
Video Recorders/Webcam’s
Articles
Books
Handouts
How can this course help me in the future?

Deaf people live in all areas of the country and share the use of ASL. While taking ASL, students comment that they are able to communicate with the Deaf people they meet while at work or in the community. They are very proud they have a skill that most people do not. Other students have relatives that are Deaf and want to better communicate with them. Deafness will affect all of our lives in some capacity or another, but more importantly this course teaches FIRST HAND about diversity and minorities. This class approaches Deaf people as a unique cultural community, not as people with a disability. Students will see the world in a different light after participating in a course such as this. Knowing a second language is always a useful skill to be more competitive in the workplace and on college applications.

What extracurricular activities are associated with this class?

We have a growing ASL Club that meets monthly and plans events such as Silent Dinners and ASL Caroling. They also plan and host Deaf Awareness Week every year. Stone Middle School has an ASL club that juniors and seniors in ASL help lead and teach. There is also peer tutoring for those who are interested.

Anything else I should know?

While not all colleges offer ASL, but colleges do honor diplomas earned from Fairfax County from student who have taken ASL as a foreign language. Many colleges have programs that use ASL, such as: Deaf Education, Special Education, Interpreting, and Social Work.
Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Elizabeth Bush, ASL Teacher, Room H202
Elizabeth.Bush@fcps.edu

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FRENCH 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one

Students develop the ability to communicate about themselves and their immediate environment using simple sentences containing basic grammatical structures. The language learning process integrates basic aspects of the geography, customs, and culture(s) of the target language countries.

FRENCH 2
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on the ability to communicate orally. They learn to function in real-life situations using more complex sentences and grammatical structures. They read material based on familiar topics and write short, directed compositions. They learn about the family structure, school life and holidays of the target language countries.

FRENCH 3
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 2 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on consistent and sustained use of the languages orally using more complex grammatical structures. They discuss reading selections using structures of increased complexity. They recognize word relationships and associate them with proper meaning. They write reports, general correspondence, and simple compositions. They also study the influence of the target language culture(s) on American culture.

FRENCH 4
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 3 or equivalency test

Students develop more sophisticated communication skills and refine their reading and writing skills. Students hear reports in the target language and recognize subtle points and moods as conveyed by the speakers. Students describe, summarize, explain, and discuss practical subjects. They express ideas using complete sentences and broaden their understanding of the foreign culture.

Supplemental information for French 1-5:

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Students begin by learning the basic vocabulary and structures to be able to communicate in French, and build on these skills as they move on to levels 2,3 and 4. During each class session, students participate in activities that help them develop skills in speaking, understanding, reading and writing French. Students are also introduced to French culture around the world. Students often work in pairs, sometimes in groups or alone.

In French 2 and 3, students spend a good part of the time working on speaking skills and basic vocabulary needed for everyday life. Students will see French movies over the course of the year, and in level 3 they will be introduced to the reading of French stories and texts. In level 4, students practice expressing themselves in more complex structures used for listening, speaking, reading and writing French.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

Students have about 20 -25 minutes of homework in levels 1 and 2, and approximately 30 minutes of homework in levels 3 and 4 for each class attended.

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

Students use a workbook which accompanies the text. Videos and audio CDs are used as an integral part of each lesson. Interactive CD-Rom programs are also used occasionally in the lab.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

There is a French Club open to any student who is interested. Once students have reached third year French and have the appropriate qualifications, they will be eligible for the French Honor Society.

How can this class help me in the future?

More and more businesses are looking for employees who are bilingual or trilingual as business with other countries becomes more and more important.

Colleges and universities continue to favor students who have studied a foreign language, especially for three years or more.

Although it is no longer the first language of diplomats and business, French continues to be an important language in more than 35 countries around the world.

A lot or research and technology is done in French-speaking countries, especially in the fields of medicine, aerospace research, transportation and energy.

It will help you understand English grammar.

Anything else I should know?

Learning a foreign language can be a really interesting experience. It gives students insight into other cultures and, even more importantly, it gives them insight into their own culture. They begin to see that not everyone does exactly the same thing or lives exactly the same way. The ability to see and understand why is certainly an important part of becoming an adult.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Mrs. Catherine T. Pluchinsky, French Teacher, Room E208
Catherine.Pluchinsky@fcps.edu
Ms. Jan Hagedorn, French Teacher, Room E209
Jan.Hagedorn@fcps.edu

FRENCH 5
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 4 or equivalency test

Students strengthen listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through the study of literature, history, and current events. They participate in in-depth studies of major literary works and historical events and learn to recognize the various themes and conflicts involved

ADVANCED PLACEMENT FRENCH LANGUAGE
For more detailed information on the AP program and this course, click here
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Level 4 or equivalency test

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Language examination given each spring, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is obtained. Students study the use of language for active communication. Specifically, they understand the spoken target language in both formal and conversational situations. They express ideas accurately and resourcefully, both orally and in writing, with reasonable fluency, and they develop a vocabulary sufficiently ample for reading newspaper and magazine articles, contemporary literature, and other nontechnical writings. They receive extensive training in the organization and writing of compositions, review syntax, and study selected works by contemporary authors. Materials will include recordings, films, newspapers, and magazines. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Language exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT FRENCH LITERATURE (FCPS On-line Course)
Grade:11-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Level 4, or Advanced Placement Language, or equivalency test

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Literature Examination, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is achieved. Students increase their proficiency in the basic language skills and learn to analyze prose and verse passages designated in the College Board syllabus. (All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Literature exam.)

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GERMAN 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one

Students develop the ability to communicate about themselves and their immediate environment using simple sentences containing basic grammatical structures. The language learning process integrates basic aspects of the geography, customs, and culture(s) of the target language countries.

GERMAN 2
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on the ability to communicate orally. They learn to function in real-life situations using more complex sentences and grammatical structures. They read material based on familiar topics and write short, directed compositions. They learn about the family structure, school life and holidays of the target language countries.

GERMAN 3
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 2 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on consistent and sustained use of the languages orally using more complex grammatical structures. They discuss reading selections using structures of increased complexity. They recognize word relationships and associate them with proper meaning. They write reports, general correspondence, and simple compositions. They also study the influence of the target language culture(s) on American culture.

GERMAN 4
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 3 or equivalency test

Students develop more sophisticated communication skills and refine their reading and writing skills. Students hear reports in the target language and recognize subtle points and moods as conveyed by the speakers. Students describe, summarize, explain, and discuss practical subjects. They express ideas using complete sentences and broaden their understanding of the foreign culture.

GERMAN 5
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 4, or Advanced Placement Language, or equivalency test

Students strengthen listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through the study of literature, history, and current events. They participate in in-depth studies of major literary works and historical events and learn to recognize the various themes and conflicts involved.

Supplemental Info for German 1-5:

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Students are presented with a list of basic target vocabulary words for the unit as well as basic grammatical structures. Students are expected to expand those for their own use as needed according to their own individual needs. The students may practice speaking, reading, listening comprehension, and writing in every class period. Occasionally, students are expected to complete group work and/or projects to review and internalize the material in each unit. Students will also learn about the culture and geography of German-speaking countries.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

In levels 1-3, most students can achieve and learn German by spending about 30 minutes each day at home reviewing and practicing the material that is introduced in class. In levels 4, 5 and AP, 45 minutes is the average.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

We use teacher-made materials, which are designed around the FCPS Program of Studies as well as the FCPS PALS objectives for the various levels. Generally, each unit at each level incorporates either popular music or authentic poetry or prose, which correlate with the unit's theme. Occasionally other materials are used, such as textbooks, workbooks, videos, and computer software.
In German 4 and 5, there are a variety of materials available. The students will continue to read German texts and refine their grammar skills, while constantly increasing their vocabulary.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

We have an extremely active German Club, as well as the German Honor Society. .

How can this class help me in the future?

The German economy is the strongest economy in Europe. As a result of the unification of Germany in 1990, many U.S. businesses are investing in Germany, and there are many firms that hire employees with a knowledge of German. Some of these employees work in Germany as well. Additionally, because of German's similarity to English, it is sometimes seen as a springboard for English speakers to learn other languages.

Anything else I should know?

German and English are very closely related. The basic vocabulary of German is very similar to English, and the structure of English and German are also similar. In fact, approximately 65% of English came from German.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Herr Glenn Rife, Teacher of German, Room G211
Glenn.Rife@fcps.edu

ADVANCED PLACEMENT GERMAN LANGUAGE
For more detailed information on the AP program and this course, click here
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Level 4 or equivalency test

The purpose of these courses is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Language examination given each spring, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is obtained. Students study the use of language for active communication. Specifically, they understand the spoken target language in both formal and conversational situations. They express ideas accurately and resourcefully, both orally and in writing, with reasonable fluency, and they develop a vocabulary sufficiently ample for reading newspaper and magazine articles, contemporary literature, and other nontechnical writings. They receive extensive training in the organization and writing of compositions, review syntax, and study selected works by contemporary authors. Materials will include recordings, films, newspapers, and magazines. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Language exam.

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JAPANESE 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one

Students develop the ability to communicate about themselves and their immediate environment using simple sentences containing basic grammatical structures. The language learning process integrates basic aspects of the geography, customs, and culture(s) of the target language countries.

JAPANESE 2
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on the ability to communicate orally. They learn to function in real-life situations using more complex sentences and grammatical structures. They read material based on familiar topics and write short, directed compositions. They learn about the family structure, school life and holidays of the target language countries.

JAPANESE 3/Advanced Grade 10
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 2 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on consistent and sustained use of the languages orally using more complex grammatical structures. They discuss reading selections using structures of increased complexity. They recognize word relationships and associate them with proper meaning. They write reports, general correspondence, and simple compositions. They also study the influence of the target language culture(s) on American culture.

JAPANESE 4/Advanced Grade 11
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 3 or equivalency test

Students develop more sophisticated communication skills and refine their reading and writing skills. Students hear reports in the target language and recognize subtle points and moods as conveyed by the speakers. Students describe, summarize, explain, and discuss practical subjects. They express ideas using complete sentences and broaden their understanding of the foreign culture.

JAPANESE 5/Advanced Grade 12
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 4 or equivalency test

Students continue the study of the Japanese language by completing the study of basic grammar, by learning new vocabulary, and by preparing creative works in writing. They progress to use more complex sentences using abstract vocabulary. Reading selections of increased transitional and modern literature will be discussed. The students continue to write reports, business letters, and compose poems (haiku). In writing and reading the number of kan'ji is increased. Cultural topics include the study of the relationship of people with nature, the conduct of business, major historical events, and the ties with the United States.

ADVANCED JAPANESE
Advanced Japanese will be offered for all students from the Immersion Program.

Supplemental Information for the Japanese program:

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

The goal of all Japanese classes is to be able to communicate with native speakers. So classroom instruction will be given in Japanese. Spoken language is focused as well as written language and culture. We will do lots of pair work and group work to speak and write Japanese.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

Learning foreign language takes lots of practice and much of this practice needs to be done outside of class. So you will have homework almost every class periods. But most of homework, you can finish in 15 minutes.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Textbook
Variety of Handouts
Video (Japanese animation, Japanese culture, authentic video, etc.)
CD-Rom

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

We have a Japanese animation/culture club.
Also if you need help, it is available after school.

How can this class help me in this future?

Of course you will be able to communicate with Japanese people. Also you will gain a global mind through learning Japanese language and culture in this class.

Anything else I should know?

You can learn a totally different language from English and learn about Japanese culture. Also you will have opportunities to communicate with high school students in Japan via e-mail or letter. There is a program to spend summer vacation in Japan and experience the "real" Japan.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Kyoko Yada-Horner, Japanese teacher, Room G212
kyhorner@fcps.edu

AP Japanese Language
Grades 11-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Level 4 or equivalency test

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Language examination given each spring, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is obtained. Students study the use of language for active communication. Specifically, they understand the spoken target language in both formal and conversational situations. They express ideas accurately and resourcefully, both orally and in writing, with reasonable fluency, and they develop a vocabulary sufficiently ample for reading newspaper and magazine articles, contemporary literature, and other nontechnical writings. They receive extensive training in the organization and writing of compositions, review syntax, and study selected works by contemporary authors. Materials will include recordings, films, newspapers, and magazines. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Japanese Language exam.

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LATIN 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one

Students develop the ability to understand simple written Latin texts based on a variety of topics. The focus is on comprehending Latin through interpretation of texts. To support the development of reading skills, students learn to understand oral Latin. Students also learn about the perspectives, practices, and products of the ancient Romans as reflected in aspects of their daily lives. As students increase their understanding of the structures of Latin language and vocabulary, they increase their understanding of these same linguistic elements in the English language. As students develop an understanding of Greco-Roman culture, they are able to understand how the Roman civilization influences their own world.

In Latin I, students will learn the basic grammar structure for all noun declensions, the indicative and imperative moods for all verb conjugations, the basic forms of prepositional phrases, and personal and demonstrative pronouns. Students study the basic structure of a Roman family, the forms of Roman houses, basic Roman history, and a survey of mythology.

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LATIN 2
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test

Students learn additional vocabulary and new points of grammar and syntax in order to read more complex sentences and paragraphs in Latin. Students continue to explore Roman life and Rome’s contribution to our civilization.

In Latin II, students will continue to review nouns, and they will learn the passive voice for verbs. They will learn more sophisticated forms for nouns, prepositional phrases, and idioms. Students study the Roman governmental structure, with a more in-depth look at the history of the Roman Republic and early Empire. They continue their study of mythology.

Latin students in class

LATIN 3
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Latin 2 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop and refine their reading skills through the study of Latin literature. Additional vocabulary, more complex language structures and syntax are emphasized in order to be able to read the writings of prose authors. Through translation and interpretation, students gain a greater understanding of the foundation of Western government and civilization.

In Latin III, students will continue to review the basic grammar constructions and forms already covered in Latin I-II. They study the use of the gerund and gerundive, more complex uses of the subjunctive mood verb, and conditional uses. Students will read the original texts from a variety of Roman authors.

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LATIN 4
Grades: 11-12
Credit:
Prerequisite: Latin 3 or equivalency test

Students read selected Roman authors for comprehension and analyze the various passages for content, connotation of words, and author's style. Students study the life and times of these authors and their influence on other authors.

The JCL co-counsel explains her Saturnalia creation.

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ADVANCED PLACEMENT LATIN: CATULLUS/OVID
For more detailed information on the AP program and this course, go to the AP Latin Literature webpage.
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Latin 3, Latin 4, or equivalency test.

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement examination on Catullus and Ovid, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is achieved. Students study the literary techniques used by Roman authors and learn aspects of stylistic analysis, with emphasis on refining the student's ability to read and understand Latin poetry and on comprehending and interpreting the readings from Catullus and Ovid. Students also study the political, social, and cultural backgrounds of the works being read, as well as classical influences upon later literature. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Latin - Catullus/Ovid exam.

Supplemental Information for Latin 1, 2 and 3:

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

This is a 'hands-on' foreign language class. In each class, there are equal amounts of lecture, group-work, and hands-on cultural activity.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

In each level of Latin, there is an assignment every night that should take between 15 to 20 minutes to complete. As with any foreign language, students will be required to learn vocabulary. There are approximately 20 words a week. In Latin III, students will have translation homework in addition to grammar and cultural homework.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Standard academic supplies: notebook, paper, pen/pencil, textbook, workbook, and a Latin-English dictionary.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

Students may join the Westfield Junior Classical League (“JCL”), which meets once a month. Membership in JCL includes membership in the Virginia Junior Classical League and the National Junior Classical League. Westfield JCL students attend the Virginia Junior Classical League Latin Convention in Richmond, Virginia, in November and compete in local certamina, (competitions similar to "It's Academic") throughout the year. Students are also encouraged to attend the National Junior Classical League summer convention

All students are required to take the National Latin Exam in March, and students are encouraged to take the Medusa Mythology Exam in April. After five semesters of Latin, students are eligible for admission to the Latin Honor Society, which is a member of the National Junior Classical League Latin Honor Society.


Winners of the Saturnalia party's "Make a Roman house out of graham crackers and marshmallow fluff" contest!

How can this class help me in the future?

• Increased SAT scores: Comparisons of SAT scores shows that taking at least two years of Latin will increase verbal SAT scores on average by 100 points. Latin students do this year after year because Latin words and prefixes show up today in over sixty percent of the English that we speak daily!

• Success in other classes - Our language, system of thought, political system, and much of our culture is based on the classical tradition. Information learned in Latin will be found in almost every other discipline.

• It looks good on transcripts - As the competition for college admission gets heavier and heavier each year, colleges are looking for that extra “something” on students’ applications. Students also have the opportunity to add National Latin Exam and Medusa Mythology Exam awards; both exams are standardized and are recognized by admission officers. Students who participate at state and national conventions have the opportunity to earn awards in academic contests, creative contests, and certamina.

• Preparation for a multitude of careers - The benefits of Latin in preparing students for a future in the legal profession, the medical field, and in writing are well documented, but did you know that employers in Silicon Valley, who must train their employees on the job, are now looking for college graduates who have proved their worth in school with a Classical education?

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Ms. Donna Winstanley
G-210
Donna.Winstanley@fcps.edu

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SPANISH 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one

Students develop the ability to communicate about themselves and their immediate environment using simple sentences containing basic grammatical structures. The language learning process integrates basic aspects of the geography, customs, and culture(s) of the target language countries.

SPANISH 2
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on the ability to communicate orally. They learn to function in real-life situations using more complex sentences and grammatical structures. They read material based on familiar topics and write short, directed compositions. They learn about the family structure, school life and holidays of the target language countries.

SPANISH 3
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 2 or equivalency test

Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on consistent and sustained use of the languages orally using more complex grammatical structures. They discuss reading selections using structures of increased complexity. They recognize word relationships and associate them with proper meaning. They write reports, general correspondence, and simple compositions. They also study the influence of the target language culture(s) on American culture.

SPANISH 4
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 3 or equivalency test

Students develop more sophisticated communication skills and refine their reading and writing skills. Students hear reports in the target language and recognize subtle points and moods as conveyed by the speakers. Students describe, summarize, explain, and discuss practical subjects. They express ideas using complete sentences and broaden their understanding of the foreign culture.

SPANISH 5
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Level 3 with teacher recommendation, Level 4, or Advanced Placement Language, or equivalency test

Students strengthen listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through the study of literature, history, and current events. They participate in in-depth studies of major literary works and historical events and learn to recognize the various themes and conflicts involved.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

The goal in the beginning levels of Spanish is to introduce students to Hispanic cultures and develop proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening to Spanish. Each day is unique, but each class will include all elements of foreign-language learning, i.e., speaking, reading, listening, and writing. These are taught in a variety of formats including pronouncing new vocabulary and taking notes about grammatical topics, group work, hands-on projects such as making and putting together a newspaper in Spanish, dialogue writing and presentation, etc. Students often work with partners or groups to have conversations using current vocabulary and grammar. Students also do frequent listening and reading activities. In the upper levels, all instruction is in Spanish, with the exception of grammatical explanations.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

Homework is given frequently; most teachers give homework every day. The homework is intended to help students practice vocabulary and grammar in the format of reading and writing. Homework may be activities from the textbook, workbook, or creative writing exercises. Students occasionally have to do creative projects using the language. The time necessary for the completion of an assignment varies but normally would require between 15 and 30 minutes.

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

We use a textbook, workbook, tapes/CD's, a computer program which is coordinated with the text, and a lot of hands-on material which are produced by the individual teachers. It is recommended that students have a good Spanish-English dictionary, and for advanced students, a cassette recorder for use at home.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

Teachers provide extra help on late-bus days after school. Students may join the Spanish club to enrich their knowledge of Hispanic cultures.
Also, the Spanish Honor Society is a nationally-recognized organization that promotes academic excellence, community service and a love of the Spanish language and culture. Spanish 3 students (second semester) and upper level students may apply for membership to Westfield's chapter. Contact Señora Wiley, sponsor, with any questions.

How can this class help me in the future?

In general, learning a foreign language helps students communicate with people of other cultures. Also, the admissions requirements for many colleges and universities include the study of a foreign language in high school. Students who study Spanish will find the language useful, since the Spanish-speaking population in the United States is growing quickly. Students who become proficient in Spanish often have expanded job and career opportunities.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT SPANISH LANGUAGE
For more detailed information on the AP program and this course, click here
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Level 3, 4 or equivalency test

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Language examination given each spring, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is obtained. Students study the use of language for active communication. Specifically, they understand the spoken target language in both formal and conversational situations. They express ideas accurately and resourcefully, both orally and in writing, with reasonable fluency, and they develop a vocabulary sufficiently ample for reading newspaper and magazine articles, contemporary literature, and other nontechnical writings. They receive extensive training in the organization and writing of compositions, review syntax, and study selected works by contemporary authors. Materials will include recordings, films, newspapers, and magazines. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Language exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT SPANISH LITERATURE
For more detailed information on the AP program and this course, click here
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one (weighted +.5)
Prerequisite: Level 4, or Advanced Placement Language, or equivalency test

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Literature Examination, for which placement and/or credit may be awarded at the college level if a qualifying score is achieved. Students increase their proficiency in the basic language skills and learn to analyze prose and verse passages designated in the College Board syllabus. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Literature exam.

Where do I go if I have more questions about these courses?

Sra. Barbara R. Wiley, M.A., World Languages Department Chair R203
Barbara.Wiley@fcps.edu

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SPANISH FOR FLUENT SPEAKERS 1
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Permission from instructor

This course offers fluent speakers of Spanish the opportunity to strengthen their basic skills in reading and writing Spanish. The students learn about the Hispanic contributions to the English language and American culture. The students also study the major historical figures and events of Spanish-speaking countries. The course is conducted in Spanish and counts toward fulfilling the foreign language requirement. Middle School: credit becomes a part of the high school transcript, is included in the determination of the high school grade point average (GPA), and counts toward fulfilling the foreign language requirements of the high school diplomas. It also counts toward the total number of credits required for graduation.

SPANISH FOR FLUENT SPEAKERS 2
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Spanish for Fluent Speakers 1 or permission from instructor

This course, designed for fluent speakers of Spanish, continues to emphasize the improvement of students' skills in speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish. Students read and critique contemporary short stories and make oral presentations. The writing and reading processes are emphasized to ensure growth in both skills. The students will also study various Hispanic personalities and historic events of Spanish-speaking countries. The course is conducted in Spanish and counts toward fulfilling the foreign language requirement

SPANISH FOR FLUENT SPEAKERS 3
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one
Prerequisite: Spanish for Fluent Speakers 2 or permission from instructor

This course, designed for speakers of Spanish, continues to emphasize the refinement of proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking Spanish. Students develop research skills through the reading and critiquing of literary works. The influence of Hispanic culture in contemporary American society is highlighted. The course is conducted in Spanish and counts toward fulfilling the foreign language requirement.

Supplemental Info for Spanish for Fluent Speakers 1-3:

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Each day begins with journal writing.

Students go to computer lab, find information on adopted country.

They put together children's book in Spanish with 6 pages, including pertinent information to learn about country and points of interest, with drawings or cutout to accompany text.

Then students read information to each other, and work together to make corrections.

Students revise work, put in book form and send to Dogwood Elem.
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What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

We have a workbook of activities, and we do poem writing, essays. 30 minutes per night

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

We use the text 'Tu mundo' and accompanying workbook, tapes, videos,and we go to the computer lab and library.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

Make up work is done after school on late bus days.
We are starting a 'Latin Dance Club"

How can this class help me in the future?

Betters writing skills, reading skills, communications skills in the target language for native speakers are the goals of this class.

Anything else I should know?

Students must be able to function orally in Spanish and have basic reading and writing skills as native speakers.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Sra. Iris Abbott, Spanish teacher R210
Iris.Abbott@fcps.edu