MS Foreign Language
The language program introduces 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to the formal process of language study. By focusing on communication, vocabulary, and grammar fundamentals, and by reading about and discussing other cultures, students are prepared for more intensive foreign language coursework in the Upper School. Foreign language study also reinforces grammar and vocabulary skills taught in the English classroom.
Most students who start in 6th grade explore all three languages in their first year before choosing a language to study throughout 7th and 8th. However, there is an Accelerated Spanish track available to incoming students who already have a solid foundation and know that they would like to continue their study of Spanish throughout middle school. Students interested in this opportunity must take a placement test to see if they are a good fit.
Students who are new to Severn starting in the 7th and 8th grade and who wish to study Spanish or French should also take a placement test to see which class would be the best fit for their experience level.
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This introductory French course is a nine-week sampler of the French language and culture. Students will be exposed to basic concepts such as verbs, numbers, and dates, as well as the culture and history of the French-speaking world. This is accomplished through a variety of learning experiences including games, projects, and communicative activities.
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This introductory Latin course is a nine-week sampler of the Latin language and Roman culture. Students will be exposed to basic vocabulary, verb conjugation, culture and traditions. This is accomplished through a variety of learning experiences including games, songs, projects, and online resources.
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This introductory Spanish course is a nine-week sampler of the Spanish language and culture. Students will be exposed to basic vocabulary, verb conjugation, culture and traditions. This is accomplished through a variety of learning experiences including games, songs, projects, and online resources.
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In this course, the students acquire a basic knowledge of French through listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. The geography and culture of the Francophone world is studied and researched. Grammar and vocabulary are introduced through dialogues and readings, and are explained and reinforced through oral and written work. Creative projects are integrated throughout the course.
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In this course, students continue to acquire and learn French vocabulary and grammar in a communicative and authentic manner. Class will include both interactive and independent activities that involve listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Throughout the year, students will learn about the cultures and histories of French-speaking communities, both in France and around the world.
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In this class, students learn about Roman culture and the Latin language. They begin a more in-depth exploration of Roman culture, geography, history, and philosophy and how the language and culture still affect the modern world. We cover topics such as verb conjugation, noun declensions, grammar, and vocabulary. Projects, movies, spoken language, debates, games, and active participation are all integral parts of the course. With ample review and new material to start the year, this course suits both new students to Severn and returning students.
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This course continues our exploration of Rome and the Latin language. We continue to stress grammar, vocabulary, geography, culture, diversity, and history through our text, readings, and other activities. Projects, videos, spoken language, debates, games, and active participation continue while students gain more independence as they demonstrate the depth of their knowledge.
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Students explore the fundamental elements of communication in Spanish. This includes written expression, reading comprehension, grammar, listening, and speaking skills, as well as an awareness of the geography and culture of Spanish-speaking countries. The curriculum integrates creative projects, songs, group work, independent work, and the development of research skills throughout the year. Students in this course are a mix of 7th grade students who selected Spanish at the end of 6th grade as well as 6th grade students who placed into the Accelerated Spanish track.
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Students build on the foundation of the previous year to increase their mastery of Spanish through listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. They also deepen and expand upon their understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures. Students work cooperatively and independently to hone their communication skills and develop the ability to express themselves authentically in the target language. This course is composed of 8th grade students as well as 7th grade students who placed into the Accelerated Spanish track.
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Students integrate their previously acquired knowledge with more advanced structures and multiple tenses. They continue to expand their knowledge of the Spanish language through readings, class conversations, projects, songs, grammar, and vocabulary work. Students take their self-expression to a higher level by crafting novel sentences and using evidence to elaborate on their ideas. They use these developing communication skills to gain a broader understanding of Spanish-speaking culture. This class is composed solely of 8th graders who placed into the Accelerated Spanish track.
Kelly TurcikChair, MS Foreign Language; MS Spanish; Seventh Grade Dean; Golf Coach
