Course Directory
Our challenging standards-based curriculum emphasizes the development of essential skills, the understanding of important concepts, and the ability to apply learning to real-world problems.
Our curriculum includes courses of study for all students in English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, world languages, music, visual arts, physical education, and health. In addition, students take grade-specific trimester courses in technology, research, and study skills which are designed to support their integrated learning experience.
Grade 6
World Languages
Spanish classes are designed to promote language proficiency through creativity and play. The goal is for students to be exposed to large amounts of comprehensible Spanish so that they can train their ear and increase their language processing speed. Language is made comprehensible by using the TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling). In addition to acquiring a second language, students begin to recognize the cultural connection between language usage and identity. They learn that proficiency in a second language can enable them to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
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Spanish 6
In 6th grade, all material is presented in the present tense. The year’s vocabulary progresses and the development of new words and structures emerge during storytelling. Students are asked to retell and write summaries of teacher created stories and those that have been co-created during class. By the end of the year, students will have heard the question words in context during each class and are able to answer spontaneous questions and engage in basic conversations. They are working towards unique expression and will begin to write creative short stories using the target language. Movement and role-play enable students to act out the part of characters and to practice manipulating the language through dialogue.
Resources: Spanish Stories by Elizabeth Gossett. Somos 1, Martina Bex. Berto y sus Buenas Ideas, Blaine Ray. TPRS in a Year! Ben Slavic. PQA in a Wink, Susan Gross. New Mini-Stories for “Look, I Can Talk!”, Blaine Ray.