WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT
Learning a second language has many social and academic benefits. Modern world language skills are an academic and social necessity in order to succeed in our ever-shrinking world. As citizens of this world, our students will need to communicate, understand others and compete in a global environment. Second language learning also impacts current and future academic success. Educational research shows that language learning correlates with higher academic achievement in the following areas: standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT, the ability to hypothesize in science class, reading ability, memory skills, problem solving, understanding the English language. There is also direct correlation between high school language study and higher academic performance at the university level. Students entering Mercy with previous language background (and who request to take a level other than French 1 or Spanish 1) will be tested before placement is finalized.
For all language classes, students are required to use online practice exercises that accompany their textbook.
FRENCH 1
Course 411
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Recommendation
The four communication skills are introduced in French I - listening, speaking, reading and writing. Vocabulary acquisition, study of grammar, pronunciation, and listening and conversation activities are used. In addition, students are introduced to the various topics of Francophone culture through the textbook as well as authentic media materials and projects.
FRENCH 2
Course 412
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French 1
This course further develops the communication shells begun in French I. The past tense is introduced, as well as more specific vocabulary sets and the concepts of direct and indirect pronouns.
FRENCH 3
Course 413
Grades 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: An average of 85% in French 2 and Recommendation
Speaking and writing skills are honed and evaluated through the use of various project-based assessments. The course includes an in-depth study of a French novel, a review of grammar, and the introduction of advanced grammar constructions, such as the imperfect and the future tense. Digital story-telling is used as a means of reinforcing presentation skills in the target language.
FRENCH 4/5 AND [AP FRENCH PREPARATION]
Course: 414 - Advanced (2 weight)
Grades 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: French 3 and Recommendation
The focus of this course is to further refine listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Vocabulary acquisition and advanced grammar continue to be taught through authentic materials and various literary works. French is the primary language of the class and students are required to maintain an online blog in the target language. Students in French 4/5 are given the opportunityto receive dual credit (up to 12 credit hours) through Thomas More College.
SPANISH 1
Course 461
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: Recommendation
The goal of first-year Spanish is to provide the students with the fundamentals of the Spanish language through the study of vocabulary and grammatical structure. Emphasis is placed on proper pronunciation, oral communication and reading comprehension. An appreciation of Hispanic culture is cultivated through various projects and the use of authentic materials.
SPANISH 2
Course 462
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Spanish 1
The objectives of this course are to enlarge vocabulary, to continue development of aural-oral skills, to develop reading and writing skills and to encourage interest in the cultural background of the Spanish-speaking people.
SPANISH 3
Course 463
Grades 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: An average of 85% in Spanish 2 and Recommendation
More advanced grammar, short readings and the history and geography of Spain are blended in this course to appeal to students who have mastered the basics of the language. Vocabulary builders, compositions and conversation are blended to increase communication.
SPANISH 4/5
Course: 464 - Advanced (2 weight)
Grades 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: Spanish 3 and Recommendation
This course combines the geography and history of Latin America with an emphasis speaking. Reading selections chosen are authored by Latin American writers who represent all genres. Included are detailed questions on the readings, grammar and vocabulary drills and creative exercises to develop composition and discussion skills. Spanish is the primary language of the class. Students in Spanish 4/5 are given the opportunity to prepare and take the Advanced Placement Exam, as well as an opportunity to earn dual credit through the College of Mount St. Joseph.
LATIN 1 (On-line)
Course: 421C
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: None
This course, taught through the Mercy Learning On Line program, will be a full year, asynchronous on line learning experience. It may be taken for elective credit only – not World Language credit – and will be scheduled as two of the students’ maximum 16 semesters. The course will include dialogue (through Skype), reading, vocabulary, the structure of Latin, exercises in Latin, etymology, culture, architecture, food, and housing. An additional fee will be charged, final cost to be determined proportional to enrollment. Students must be prepared to be independent learners, willing to devote the same amount of time to this class as any traditional course in their schedule. Periodic meetings with a faculty advisor will be held.
LATIN 2 (On-line)
Course: 422C Grades 10, 11, 12 Elective Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites: Latin 1
A continuation of the reading, vocabulary, and culture studies presented on Latin 1. The same expectations and requirements apply. See your Guidance Counselor for more information.