Upper
School

Upper School Course Descriptions
French - Chinese - Spanish

In the required levels of a chosen language, all four language skills are equally stressed: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition of vocabulary, the fundamentals of grammar and on the development of cultural awareness, sensitivity and appreciation.

Classes are conducted in the target language; the use of English is kept to a minimum. The goal is to lead students to a level of proficiency that enables them to interact with linguistic and cultural accuracy with native speakers.

Classes are designed to provide optimal learning experiences for all students. Audio-visual materials (laser disks, videos, audio cassettes) are used frequently in the classroom throughout the program to strengthen students' language skills, to provide them with immersion experiences and to present culturally authentic material.

After students complete their requirement for graduation (through level III), they are encouraged to pursue their language studies through more advanced courses. Students may elect to study more than one language on either campus. Final decision about the placement of students is made by the department heads on both campuses.

CHINESE

Chinese I
In this introductory course students practice all four language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing; aural-oral skills are stressed early on  in the course, while Chinese basic grammar is presented progressively. The curriculum is based on Ni Hao I and  Ni Hao II (lessons 1—2).

Chinese IIA
Prerequisite: For linguistically strong students who have completed Chinese I with a grade of A- or above and who are recommended by the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly averages, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
In this accelerated section, students strengthen the skills that were introduced in Chinese I. The advanced material that is introduced covers a vast range of grammatical concepts as well as challenging readings. The speaking and listening skills continue to be stressed.  The curriculum is based on Ni Hao II and Ni Hao III.

Chinese II
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chinese I (C- or above) and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly averages, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
In this regular section, students strengthen the skills that were introduced in Chinese I. With the same format, new material is introduced, but the pace of instruction is less demanding than in the accelerated section. The curriculum is based on Ni Hao II.

Chinese IIIA
Prequisite: For linguistically strong students who have completed Chinese IIA with a grade of A- or above and who are recommended by the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly average, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student’s motivation.
In this accelerated section, students enter this course with prior experience in Chinese IIA and the teacher’s recommendation (or placement test). The curriculum is based on Nihao IV and a variety of supplemental materials. At the end of the course, students may choose to take the HSK test to earn a Certificate of Chinese Proficiency from China to qualify for college credit remission and for a scholarship to study in China, or chose to take Chinese AP (starting 2006).

Chinese III
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chinese II (C- or above) and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department,  which takes into consideration quarterly average, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student’s motivation.
This course expands and refines the students’ foundation in Chinese language and culture. With the same format, new materials are introduced, but the pace of instruction is less demanding than in the accelerated section. Students strengthen their language skills so as to be able to express themselves with greater independence and accuracy in Chinese. The curriculum is based on Nihao III.

Note: Courses beyond Level III, such as Chinese AP, will be offered starting in 2006.

FRENCH

French I
The course is based on French in Action, a multimedia program that combines video, audio, and printed materials. The course emphasizes aural-oral skills that are developed in the context of the story viewed in the video disks and read in the textbook. Students strengthens their reading and writing skills with the use of a French grammar book that covers all the traditional elements of a first-year course and stresses the mastery of verb tenses: present, past( passé immédiat, passé composé, and imparfait), and future (futur proche and futur simple).
French in Action I (Yale University Press): Lessons 2-13
French First Year (Amsco)

French IIA (Accelerated)
Prerequisite: A grade of A- or above in French I
This accelerated course continues in the same way as French I, only at a much fast-paced instruction. There are more episodes of French in Action with a rich array of new vocabulary and expressions. Students learn new grammar and syntax, which includes the conditional and subjunctive moods.
French in Action I-II (Yale University Press): Lessons 14-33
French Two Years (Amsco)

French II
Prerequisite: A grade of C- or above in French I
This course is similar to French IIA described above, only at a less fast-paced instruction. Students cover fewer episodes of French in Action and learn new grammar at a less advanced level than in the accelerated section.
French in Action I-II (Yale University Press): Lessons 14-28
French Two Years (Amsco)

French IIIA (Advanced)
Prerequisite: A grade of A- or above in French IIA
This advanced section completes the episodes of French in Action. Additional materials include movies, literary works, and press articles. Students continue their study of grammar, reviewing and refining the important points.
French in Action II (Yale University Press): Lessons 34-52
French Three Years (Amsco)

French III
Prerequisite: A grade of C- or above in French II
This course is similar to French IIIA described above, only at a less fast-paced instruction. Students cover fewer episodes of French in Action, and they complete their survey of grammar. Additional materials include movies, literary works, and press articles.
French in Action II (Yale University Press): Lessons 29-43
French Three Years (Amsco)

French IVH (Honors)
Prerequisite: A grade of A- or above in French IIIA
In this class, the finer points of French grammar are reviewed, strengthened and clarified. Students discuss examples of French literature through extracts and short stories (some on CD-ROM). Discussions and compositions based on current publications provide the students with opportunities for independent self-expression. Students develop their listening skills through the frequent use of taped activities. Students make recordings and do a wide variety of class exercises to improve their speaking ability. Laser disk programs and films on video enhance listening skills and culture study.

French IV
Prerequisite: A grade of C or above in French III
This is a French conversation and culture course. While the core curriculum concerning grammar review and expansion remains consistent for the full year, each semester may have a different focus.  Among the areas we explore are French literature, cultures of the French speaking world, fine art, and/or French society.  Videos, short stories, newspaper articles, and other documents provide the basis for vocabulary expansion and class discussions.  Practical use of the French language is emphasized, and students are given the opportunity to use their skills in paired activities, role plays, and oral presentations.  A key factor to success in this course is the student's commitment to active participation in all class activities.

French V-AP Language
Prerequisite: A grade of A- or above in French IVH
The goals of this course conform to the standards and expectations described in the CEEB curriculum for A.P. French Language. Equal emphasis is placed on perfecting all four language communication skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students review and refine their mastery of French grammar and strive to apply what they have learned with spontaneity in varied situations. They are expected to participate in French in all class activities and have frequent taped assignments to complete at home. Videos, stories and current articles are viewed and read to serve as a springboard for discussions, debates and compositions. Students also endeavor to broaden their active vocabulary and to become comfortable using a variety of tenses and idiomatic expressions both when writing and speaking. This course culminates in the Advanced Placement French Language Exam given in May, which must be taken by all students enrolled in this class.

French V
Prerequisite: A grade of C or above in French IV
The goal of this course is to provide students with more opportunities to further their speaking and writing skills, as well as their knowledge of the French speaking world.  Possible themes might include cinema, business French or short stories.  Vocabulary and grammar are introduced or reviewed based on the needs of the group.  Videos, short stories, newspaper articles, and other documents provide the basis for class discussions.  Practical use of the French language is emphasized, and students are given the opportunity to use their skills in paired activities, role plays, and oral presentations. A key factor to success in this course is the student's commitment to active participation in all class activities.

French VI-AP Literature
Prerequisite: Successful completion of A. P. French  Language (or equivalent proficiency) with a score of 5 on the exam and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly averages, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
This course is for students who love literature and are inclined to literary analysis. The reading list includes works by French writers from the 16^th to the 20^th centuries. Given the amount and difficulty of the readings, preparation for class is quite demanding and time-consuming (students should not overlook this aspect of the course). Students frequently write essays on subjects rising from the readings. Part of the preparation for the A. P. French Literature Exam, which students take in May, is a “real” 3-hour A. P. Examination given at mid-year.
     A. P. French Literature is for highly motivated, linguistically able students with a deep interest in literature.

SPANISH

Spanish I
This course is for those students who wish to begin their study of Spanish in the Upper School. Students make use of video and audio resources, as well as the textbook, to explore basic grammar and vocabulary. These first steps in the Spanish language  are supported by a variety of written and oral-aural exercises. Meaningful communication is the natural goal of the course, with strong emphasis on the mastery of basic grammar needed to progress in the language. Reading and writing is developed in contexts that provide students with insights into the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. The availability of this course is based upon sufficient enrollment.

Spanish IIA
Prequisite: For linguistically strong students who have completed Spanish I with a grade of A- or above and for native speakers of Spanish who wish to begin developing their reading and writing skills.
Spanish IIA is designed with the motivated language learner in mind. The course is structured as a fast-paced, comprehensive learning experience. The Vistas program used contains a multi-media approach to engage students with interactive CD-ROMs and DVDs. Chapter episodes are viewed on DVD and the individual concepts discussed in the chapter are broken down, explained and practiced with the interactive CD-ROMs, and in the text and workbooks. Spanish IIA emphasizes aural-oral skills that are developed over the course of the program. The instruction follows a tight schedule and students should be prepared for the rigorous pace required.

Spanish II
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish I (C- or above) and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly averages, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
Spanish II is a continuation of the Spanish I course. It is based on the Vistas program, a combined textbook and multimedia approach to learning that allows students to take advantage of a traditional approach (reading, writing, speaking) while refining their skills with the most up-to-date technology. With Vistas' CD-ROMS and other audio-visual components students see, hear, and review the textbook's vocabulary, verbs, and grammar from their laptop at home or at school.  Such repetition develops further proficiency in the language and is also a wonderfully refreshing and didactic approach to language learning. 

Spanish IIIA
Prerequisite: Entrance to this course requires successful completion of Spanish IIA with a grade of A- or better and the recommendation of the Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly and year-end averages and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
This course is designed to begin perfecting the language skills necessary for highly proficient oral and written communications. The finer points of grammar are reviewed, strengthened and clarified. Discussions and compositions are based on Hispanic Literature through extracts and short stories, which provide opportunities for self-expression. Students develop their listening skills through the frequent use of taped and recorded activities as well as through a wide variety of class exercises. Students broaden their cultural foundation through Internet projects and exploration.

Spanish III
Prerequisite: Entrance to this course requires successful completion of Spanish II (C- or above) and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly averages, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
This course completes the Vistas program, a multi-media program that combines interactive CD ROMs and DVDs. Chapter episodes are viewed on DVD and the individual concepts discussed in the chapter are broken down, explained and practiced with the interactive CD ROMs, and in the text and workbooks. While the course emphasizes aural-oral skills, reading and writing are also developed over the course of the program.

Spanish IV H
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish IIIA or equivalent with a grade of A- or better and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly and year-end averages and performance on exams, as well as the student’s motivation.
Advanced grammar and composition are two key elements of this course.  Topics for discussion and written essays are based on the literature representing the richness and variety of the Spanish-speaking world, as well as from periodicals.  Listening and speaking skills continue to be stressed and honed through class discussions, paired activities and group work.  Appropriate sites on the Internet, Spanish-language films on video and audio cassette programs are all incorporated into the course to give students ample exposure to and practice with Spanish spoken not only in Spain, but also in Central and South America.  This wide variety of media also enables the students to study in depth the cultures of the countries where Spanish is spoken.
This course is particularly suited to students who need an additional preparatory year to qualify for AP Spanish Language in their Senior year.

Spanish IV
Prerequisite: Entrance to this course requires successful completion of Spanish III with a C or higher and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly and year-end averages and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
In this course students work to develop greater proficiency while reviewing and broadening their foundation in grammar. Practical vocabulary needed to communicate in varied social situations is presented and practiced through paired activities and role-play. Videos, short stories, newspaper articles, and other documents provide topics for discussions and written activities, as well as insight into the culture of the Spanish-speaking world. A key factor to success in this class is the student's commitment to active participation in all class activities.
 

Spanish V-AP Language
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish IV Honors with a A- or better and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly and year-end averages and performance on exams, as well as the student’s motivation.  AP Spanish Language is for highly motivated, linguistically able students who are committed to perfecting their language communication skills.  Students with an A or above average in Spanish IIIA, in addition to exceptional linguistic skills, may be recommended for admission to the AP Spanish Language class.
This course conforms to the standards and expectations as described in the CEEB curriculum for A.P. Spanish language. Equal emphasis is placed on perfecting all four language communication skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students review and refine their mastery of Spanish grammar and strive to apply what they have learned with spontaneity in varied situations. They are expected to participate in all class activities, including numerous written and oral assignments to complete at home. Short stories and current articles are read and Spanish and Latin American films are viewed and read in order to serve as a springboard for discussions, debates and compositions. This course is conducted entirely in Spanish, and ends with the Advanced Placement Spanish Language exam given in May. All students enrolled in this course must take this exam.

Spanish V
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish IV with a C or higher and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into consideration quarterly averages, year-end average and performance on exams, as well as the student's motivation.
The goal of this course is to provide students with more opportunities to further their speaking and writing skills, as well as their knowledge of the Spanish speaking world.  This year-long course is taught by two teachers, one from Brunswick, one from Greenwich Academy, in different semesters, when scheduling permits.  Possible themes might include cinema, Spanish architecture, or short stories.  Vocabulary and grammar are introduced or reviewed based on the needs of the group.  Videos, short stories, newspaper articles, and other documents provide the basis for class discussions.  Practical use of the Spanish language is emphasized, and students are given the opportunity to use their skills in paired activities, role plays, and oral presentations.  A key factor to success in this course is the student's commitment to active participation in all class activities.

Spanish VI-AP Literature
Prerequisite: Successful completion of A. P. Spanish Language (or equivalent proficiency) with scores of 4 or 5 on the exam and the recommendation of the Foreign Language Department, which takes into account quarterly averages, year-end average, as well as the student’s motivation. A. P. Spanish Literature is for highly motivated, linguistically able students with a deep interest in literature.
Following the prescribed Advanced Placement syllabus, this course intends to offer the advanced Spanish student a remarkable overview of Spanish and Hispanic literature from medieval times through present day.  The list of approximately 60 works from more than 35 authors, containing poems, plays, short stories and novels, is demanding and students are required to write frequent essays and participate in active class discussions.  Part of the preparation for the A.P. Spanish Literature Exam, which students take in May, is a “real” 3-hour and 10 minute examination given at mid-year.

 Middle School Course Descriptions
French - Spanish
2003–2004

FRENCH

• Discovering French, Bleu (McDougal Littell): Textbook, Workbook, and Video
• French in Action (Annenberg/CPB & Yale University Press): Textbook and Video

French 105 (5th grade)
4Discovering French: Units 1 and 2.

French 106 (6th grade)
4Discovering French: Units 3–5.
4French in Action: Lessons 2 and 3.

French 107 (7th grade)
4Discovering French: Units 5–7½.
4French in Action: Lessons 4–6.

French 108 (8th grade)
4Discovering French: Units 7–9.
4French in Action: 6, 7, 9–12.
 

SPANISH

• DIME! UNO (D.C. Heath and Company): Text and Video

Spanish 105 (5th grade)
4DIME! UNO: Lección Preliminar & Unidad 1

Spanish 106 (6th grade)
4DIME! UNO: Unidad 2–3

Spanish 107 (7th grade)
4DIME! UNO: Unidad 3–5

Spanish 108 (8th grade)
4DIME! UNO: Unidad 5 (Lección 3)–8
4Alejandro