Foreign Languages

Spanish I (1 unit credit) Course 117. Major emphasis is placed on learning to speak and understand spoken Spanish, especially to ask questions and understand the answers. Students also learn to read and write in Spanish. Memorization of vocabulary is essential. Students encounter basic grammatical concepts. Class participation is stressed as the primary way to obtain language fluency. Testing is both oral and written. Students study the history, geography, and ways of life of Spanish speaking countries, also.

Spanish II (1 unit credit) Course 217. A continuation of Spanish I. All four language skills are stressed -- reading, writing, speaking, and listening. More complex grammatical structures are covered - especially verb tenses. The study of culture continues.

Spanish III (1 unit credit) Course 317. This is an opportunity to really USE all four language skills gained in Spanish I and II. Since most grammar has been covered in the first two years of study, emphasis is on gaining vocabulary and practicing the use of the language in everyday situations. There is some flexibility based on the interests of the students. Students will read a play or novel in Spanish at the end of the year.

Spanish IV (1 unit credit) Course 417. An independent reading program designed to keep the student using the skills gained in Spanish I and II. Since most grammar has been covered in the first two years of study, emphasis is on gaining vocabulary and practicing the use of the language in everyday situations. There is some flexibility based on the interests of the students. Students will read a play or novel in Spanish at the end of the year.

Spanish IV (1 unit credit) Course 417. An independent reading program designed to keep the student using the skills gained in the first three years of study and prepare him/her for college language courses or credit by examination. The student generally meets with the instructor only once each week. Students read novels, plays, and short stories in Spanish, answer comprehension questions, write summaries and opinions in Spanish, and then talk with the instructor about the work in Spanish. Thus they continually practice the four language skills - reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

French I (1 unit credit) Course 116. Students work on basic vocabulary and basic grammar. It is a fundamental course used to build a knowledge of French, and therefore, English grammar skills and French culture. There are taped, written and oral drills. There is an emphasis on written and spoken French, and memorization of details.

French II (1 unit credit) Course 216. In the second year, student spend more time on advanced vocabulary and verbs. A simple French book is read and discussed in class. Beginning in semester two, the class is primarily in French.

French III (1 unit credit) Course 316. A continuation of the grammar of French II. This class will increase from 20% spoken French at the beginning of the year to more than 80% by year's end. There will also be an emphasis on written French by using classic literature which could include "Les Miserables," "Le Petit Prince," and "Les Trois Mousquetaires." Prerequisite is at least a B average in French I & II or permission from the teacher.

French IV (1 unit credit) Course 416. This course is a continuation of French III, expanding the use of grammar in writing and reading. This is basically an independent study course if class time cannot be arranged. The course begins with a review of French III grammar. Next there is an emphasis on reading short pieces and writing comptes rendus du lecture. After that, the student will write compositions, research papers, and letters. To finish the year there is a review of pronunciation and the reading of two novels: "Le Fantome de l'Opera" and "Les Miserables" or "Les Trois Mousquetaires." (Prerequisite: French III)