Foreign Language Courses
Language is the instrument giving us potential to connect to every other person’s understanding of the multi-lingual world in which we must all live. If we are to know other’s wisdom with respect to their experience and reflections upon the world, knowledge of their language is critical. To this end, Calais High School strives to offer exposure to multiple foreign languages, basic understanding of these languages, and insight into the culture they reflect. Our program focuses on communication and culture. Communication requires the student to know what to say (vocabulary), how to say it (grammar and syntax), when to say it (chronological comprehension), and to whom it must be said (situation comprehension). Culture requires a student to register a sensitivity and appropriate response to the similarities and differences between his-her own culture, and the culture of the studied language. Such skills are achieved through listening, reading, speaking, viewing, and writing the foreign language.
Spanish 1
Year / 1 Credit / Grades 9-12
This is an introduction to basic Spanish concepts. The focus will be on learning and building grammar and vocabulary skills. Some minor reading will also be done. The language will be used as much as possible. All activities are used to help facilitate the use of language through repetition.
Spanish 2
Year / 1 Credit / Grades 10-12
This is a continuation of the language with added emphasis on writing and reading skills. There is also a focus on more complex grammar concepts. The language will continue to be used as much as possible.
Expectations: Successful completion of Spanish 1
Spanish 3-4
Year / 1 Credit / Grades 11-12
Continuation of the Spanish language advances a student’s skills in reading, writing, and speaking.
Expectations: Successful completion of Spanish 2 or 3 or permission of instructor
French 1
Year / 1 Credit / Grades 9-12
This course is planned to develop ability in the five basic skills in French - listening, comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. The student gains an understanding of France, its people, and culture. When considering French as a foreign language choice, the students should appreciate the fact that one of the significant qualities of the language is the sound not found in the English language.
French 2
Year / 1 Credit / Grades 10-12
This course aims at strengthening reading and writing skills while maintaining listening comprehension and speaking skills. Also, a study of contemporary France and the French civilization is pursued.
Expectation: Successful completion of French 1.
French 3-4
Year / 1 Credit / Grades 11-12
Students will continue to improve and refine their reading, writing, comprehension, and speaking skills in French. Through their reading they will learn about French writers and cultures around the world. Conversational French will be emphasized.
Expectations: Successful completion of French 2 or permission of the instructor.