World Languages
Philosophy: The World Language Department emphasizes proficiency in the four communicative skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as awareness of the differences between native and target cultures. In line with St. Paul’s mission to provide students with the most effective and innovative educational approaches, the World Language Department has implemented Rosetta Stone, which uses rich visual imagery to help students learn and think in a new language. The association of language and images is an integral part of the Dynamic Immersion method, ensuring a direct connection between words and their meaning. Currently, Rosetta Stone is used in French and Spanish classes in the Upper School to enhance those fundamental skills necessary to achieve fluency in a foreign language. Moreover, students in the Upper School strengthen proficiency skills through the formal study of vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. Advanced students expand their communicative skills to include reading comprehension of literary texts and writing exercises designed to encourage individual expression. Aspects of contemporary life in the target culture provide a thematic schema for this process. In the two-year Latin program, students learn to read Latin and to apply knowledge of vocabulary and grammar for understanding English today. Elements of Roman history and culture offer enrichment.
COURSES OF STUDY
SPANISH I
This course introduces the student to the concept of studying a foreign language and to basic Spanish grammar. Vocabulary drawn from everyday life is enhanced through idiomatic study in an effort to highlight cultural differences. All four communicative skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—receive equal attention. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills.
SPANISH II
This course continues the examination of the structure of the language begun in Spanish I. Emphasis is placed on the mastery of grammatical patterns, while continuing the emphasis on oral communication and cultural enrichment. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills.
SPANISH III
This course focuses on the mastery of the structure of the Spanish language. Proficiency skills in reading, writing, and speaking are developed through exposure to cultural and literary themes. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills.
HONORS SPANISH IV
Conducted primarily in the target language, Honors Spanish IV is designed to further student progress in the development of the four language skills. The course offers insight into various aspects of the cultures of Spain and other Hispanic countries through readings which focus on historical events, biographies, artistic expressions and topics of human interest. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills. Evaluation includes assessment of listening and reading comprehension, oral proficiency, writing, and grammar mastery.
FRENCH I
This course equips students with basic tools for second language acquisition. Daily practice in the primary skills of communication--listening, speaking, reading, and writing--fosters understanding of French vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. Cultural activities highlight the similarities and differences between French and American life. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills. Chapter tests assess listening, reading and writing skills.
FRENCH II
This course strengthens and expands communication skills introduced in French I. Increased emphasis is placed on oral proficiency and reading comprehension at the intermediate level. Cultural topics feature important aspects of daily life in France and in other French-speaking countries. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills. Chapter tests assess listening, reading and writing skills.
FRENCH III
Conducted primarily in the target language, this course prepares the student for advanced-level communicative proficiency, with emphasis on conversational skills, readings from literature, and advanced French grammar. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen those fundamental communication skills. The cultural focus extends to French literary and political history, the arts, and trends in contemporary French life. The testing program offers chapter tests, with quizzes on grammar and listening comprehension.
HONORS FRENCH IV
Conducted primarily in the target language, Honors French IV offers students an opportunity to synthesize all previous study for communicative proficiency. In addition to traditional methods and resources which are used by the teacher, Rosetta Stone gives students an invaluable tool to strengthen fundamental communication skills. In addition to chapter tests, evaluations include proficiency checks in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Students in this class have the opportunity to earn college credit through the dual enrollment program with U.S.A.
LATIN II
This course concentrates on extending the study of verbs, nouns, and grammar begun in Latin I. Grammar study expands to include thorough understanding of participles, infinitives, fourth and fifth declension nouns, personal, relative, and interrogative pronouns, and irregular and comparative adjectives, as well as basic subjunctive tenses and uses. Emphasis is placed on reading Latin passages taken from ancient authors. Study continues to focus on etymology of English words derived from Latin, and cultural themes include Roman history, art and civilization, and famous people from this period. The basic text is Wheelock’s Latin. The testing program differs from the format established in Latin I in that the text is composed of numerous short chapters. The students have a weekly vocabulary quiz and a weekly grammar quiz on each short chapter, with no major tests.