Spanish Course Descriptions

Spanish I (Non-Spanish Speakers)

This course introduces students to Spanish vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, basic dialogues, and basic sentence patterns. Audio-lingual materials aid in the development of communication skills. Through various classroom activities, students observe and experience Spanish culture.  Skills and concepts in listening, speaking, reading, and writing are stressed; however, major emphasis is given to oral communication.

Spanish I (Heritage Speakers)

This course is based on the same criteria as Spanish I. Students will obtain, reinforce, and expand their literacy and cultural proficiency. Major emphasis is placed on written communication.

Spanish II

Emphasizing oral comprehension and reading skills, students expand their fluency in Spanish. Grammar, vocabulary, literature, and cultural studies are included. Skills in listening, speaking, and writing are also stressed; however, major emphasis is given to oral communication.

Spanish II (Heritage Speakers)

This course is a continuation of Spanish I- Heritage Speakers. It focuses on reading comprehension, cultural awareness, vocabulary, and written communication that is particular to native speakers.

Spanish III

This course is a continuation of Spanish  II. Students undertake grammer and vocabulary studies, enhance aural and oral communication, and explore Hispanic culture. Skills in speaking, reading, listening, and writing are emphasized. This course is not recommended for students intending to take AP Spanish IV.

Spanish III (Heritage Speakers)

This course is a continuation of Spanish II- Heritage Speakers. It encompasses literature by Hispanic authors. It focuses on reading comprehension, cultural awareness, vocabulary, and written communication that is particular to native speakers.

Spanish III (Pre-AP)

Students undertake grammar and vocabulary studies, enhance aural comprehension as well as oral and written proficiency, and explore Hispanic culture, particularly in the areas of art, music, history, and geography. Classic and contemporary literature are studied.

AP Spanish IV

This intensive course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Spanish Language Exam. This class will include a thorough grammar review; refine aural and oral proficiency; daily discussions of various cultural readings, literature, or current topics; weekly compositions; and research papers. Students are expected to take the AP exam.

AP Spanish V

This is an accelerated  course designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Spanish Literature Exam. Students will be introduced to the diverse literature written in Spanish and thus help them reflect on the many voices and and cultures included in the very rich literature of the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of genres and types of discourse and will be able to trace the history of Spanish prose from Don Juan Manuel to modern times. Students are expected to take the AP exam. Additional outside reading for this course will be required.