Spanish I

In this course, students begin to develop communicative competence in Spanish and expand their understanding of the culture(s) of Spanish-speaking countries.  Additionally, students learn to communicate in real-life contexts about topics that are meaningful to them.  An emphasis is placed on use of Spanish in the classroom and on use of authentic materials to learn about culture.  Grammar is integrated into instruction according to the vocabulary and structures needed in the various situations in which students are required to function.  Through this course, students will develop a greater understanding of the structure of their own language and the unique aspects of their own culture.  This course is open to RCHS students starting in grade 8.

Spanish II

Students continue to develop their communicative competence by interacting orally and in writing with other Spanish speakers, understanding oral and written messages in Spanish, and making oral and written presentations in Spanish.  Students will read material on familiar topics and write short, directed compositions.  Emphasis continues to be placed on use of Spanish in the classroom as well as on use of authentic materials to learn about Spanish-speaking cultures.

Spanish III

Through this course, students will continue to develop their communicative competence.  Students will communicate on a variety of topics using more complex structures in Spanish and moving from concrete to more abstract concepts.  They comprehend the main ideas of the authentic materials that they listen to and read and are able to identify significant details when the topics are familiar.  Students develop the ability to discuss in Spanish topics related to historical and contemporary events and issues.

Spanish IV

In Spanish IV, students continue to develop communicative competence: interacting with other Spanish speakers, understanding oral and written messages in Spanish, and making oral and written presentations in Spanish.  They are able to exchange and support opinions on a variety of topics, comprehend spoken and written texts from a variety of authentic sources, and use Spanish to access information in other subjects.