SPANISH COURSES

Spanish 1:  1 Credit, Ames/MHS
This is the beginning course in the 9-12 sequence which has as its aim the New York State Standards for World Languages: the ability to use a language other than English for communication and the development of cross-cultural skills and understanding. The first-year course consists of learning the fundamentals of grammar with an emphasis on speaking and listening. The ability to converse on various topics from the New York State checklist is stressed as well as the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. In order to earn academic credit at the end of 8th grade, a student must pass the Checkpoint A Spanish Assessment in June.

Spanish 2:  1 Credit, Ames/MHS
This course builds on the grammar rules and vocabulary acquired in Spanish I and continues on to more elaborate structures. Emphasis is on listening, speaking, reading and writing. The further study of Spanish-speaking countries enhances the students’ understanding of the language and of other cultures.

Spanish 2 Accelerated:  1 Credit, Ames
This course for ninth grade students represents the third phase of the 7-12 program begun in 7th grade. It emphasizes the speaking, reading, comprehension and writing skills through a grammar more advanced than Spanish 2 and through Advanced Placement units specially prepared for this level.

Spanish 3:  1 Credit, MHS
Students will increase their competency in the four functions of language. All students will take the Checkpoint B Spanish Assessment in June.

Spanish 3 Accelerated:  1 Credit, MHS
The fourth phase of the 7-12 program. It teaches the four language skills through Advanced Placement reading selections especially prepared for sophomores. All students will take the Checkpoint B Spanish Assessment in June.

Spanish 4:  1 Credit, MHS
This course is open to all students who have successfully completed Spanish 3. Students will continue to develop their language ability for college. Special emphasis will be given to the cultural and literary aspects of Spanish-speaking countries. Content will be assessed through projects and oral presentations.

Spanish 4 Accelerated:  1 Credit, MHS
The aim of this course is to begin preparation for the Advanced Placement Exam. It is conducted in the target language to further listening and speaking skills. There is an emphasis on advanced grammar. In addition to the textbook, various literary and cultural selections will be studied. This course will begin to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Spanish Exam that will be taken at the end of Spanish 13 AP. 

College Spanish:  1 Credit, MHS; 6 College Credits, St. John's University
This course is intended for students who have completed Spanish 4R with an average of B+ or higher. The syllabus is similar to an intermediate college language course. Upon successful completion of this two-semester course, the payment of all required college fees, and the meeting of all college registration deadlines, students will be granted college credit. Although transfer credits cannot be guaranteed in advance, all but a few colleges will accept the credits. Transfer credit policies vary from college to college. As a result, the student may be granted advanced standing, waiver of a requirement, elective credit or a combination of these. If a student has questions about credit, it is recommended to contact the college/university directly. Students are required to purchase the textbook (cost between $100-$150). 

AP Spanish Language & Culture:  1 Credit, MHS
This Advanced Placement language course is for students who have completed Spanish 4 Accelerated. This highly rigorous course focuses on enhancing the skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) needed for the Advanced Placement Spanish Language exam. All students will be required to take the AP exam in May. Students must complete a summer assignment. Failure to complete all course requirements, including participation in all AP exams, will result in the loss of AP course designation on a student’s transcript and AP weighting will NOT be applied.