Foreign Language

Spanish I-IV

Spanish I

This is a beginner’s course with special emphasis on listening and speaking skills. The students will develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing through an understanding of grammatical concepts, especially in the present and preterite verb tenses. The importance of the Spanish language in today’s society as well as an understanding of Spanish traditions will be learned through study and projects related to the culture of numerous Spanish-speaking countries. Basic grammar, present tense of ar, er, ir verbs, is taught. Students begin to read and write and formulate basic conversation in Spanish. Students learn about Spanish culture. An oral exam is required each semester. (1/2 credit per semester)

Spanish II

The study of the present tense continues with the addition of more irregular and stem-changing verbs. The near future is introduced. Units on travel, family, relationships, and personal care are presented. The preterite tense of regular and irregular verbs, time expressions with hace, direct and indirect object pronouns, numbers 100 – 1000, comparisons with mas and menos, demonstrative adjectives and demonstrative pronouns are taught. The imperfect tense, and a contrast of preterite and imperfect are included. These concepts are practiced extensively through the use of speaking, listening, reading and writing exercises. Students will be exposed to aspects of Spanish culture. An oral exam is required each semester. (1/2 credit per semester)

Spanish III

The student at this level knows how to speak and read well enough to begin to explore Spanish culture in greater depth. The subject matter of this course emphasizes the most advanced grammatical concepts of Spanish. Grammar is reviewed in an ongoing manner and the formation and use of the subjunctive, the passive voice, and the use of the infinitive. The students begin to delve into the culture of Spanish-speaking countries and will use this information to further their development of speaking, listening, reading and especially, writing skills. An oral exam is required each semester. At the teacher’s discretion a project will be required. (1/2 credit per semester)

Spanish IV

Spanish Four is designed to help the student refine the language skills previously developed. Special emphasis is placed upon a broadening of cultural knowledge, and the application of language skills. Students will, in an ongoing manner, review learned grammar and apply it to everyday situations. Special emphasis will be placed on oral and written communication and on the appreciation of Spanish and Latin American literary classics and modern writings. An historical element of either Spanish or Latin American culture will be included in this study. A project may replace the final exam. (1/2 credit per semester)