Upper School World Languages
Specific goals of world language study are to develop language skills,
with an emphasis on communication in the modern languages, and cultural
awareness. Although only a two-year study of world language is required,
it is recommended that students pursue three or four years. Capable and
interested students may elect to study two world languages consecutively
or concurrently. All students are encouraged to consider study abroad
program for experiential learning.
Languages offered at MVS:
French I Full year
In this beginning French course, mastery of listening and speaking skills
and development of reading and writing ability complement each other.
Emphasis is placed on using the language for self-expression. Introduction
to elementary grammar, basic vocabulary, and French daily life and culture
are taught.
French II Full year
This course continues to develop the four basic linguistic skills of reading,
writing, listening, and speaking. Through a study of new vocabulary, verb
tenses, and grammar the student increases the range of fluency. An emphasis
of French culture is the francophone community.
French III Full year
Prerequisite: French II and departmental recommendation
This intermediate course provides the opportunity to make use of and build
on, in conversation and in writing, what has been learned in the first
two levels. Increased mastery of the language leads to improved self-expression.
There is a review of French grammar as well as study of more advanced
concepts. Reading of a literary work or extracts from several works takes
place. The study of civilization and culture includes a study of French
history and French artists.
Advanced French: IV Full year
Prerequisite: French III and departmental recommendation
This advanced course has a twofold purpose: first, to continue progress
with the student's linguistic skills in speaking, listening, writing and
reading; and, second, to develop the student's understanding and appreciation
of French culture as manifested in her literature, history and contemporary
culture. Literary works will be read, contemporary issues will be discussed,
and videos will be viewed as a context for language study.
Advanced French: V Fall, Winter & Spring Terms (Full year
recommended)
Prerequisite: French IV and departmental recommendation
A fifth year of French is offered to capable and interested students.
The course is designed to meet the needs of the particular group, including
study of literature, culture and advanced grammar review. Students may
elect to prepare and take the AP French Language exam, which requires
competency in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Latin - General info
Study in Latin has been proven to be effective in training the mind to
grasp patterns and logical reasoning skills, as well as aid in the study
of other languages as the students learn to feel language as a living,
growing, changing medium. Latin courses are offered whenever student enrollment
permits.
Latin I Full year
Throughout this first year of Latin study, students will encounter and
master the major concepts of the language of the Romans. A foundation
of the linguistic theories and grammar of English will support the concurrent
study of Latin. Roman history and culture will be covered, but grammar,
vocabulary and syntax will be the main focus. When appropriate, the students
will have a chance to translate authentic Roman authors' works (adapted),
and create their own works in Latin.
Latin II Full year
Students will continue to refine their translation skills during the second
year of study, adding on to the strong foundation from Latin I. The works
of Roman authors such as Pliny the Younger, Seneca, Cicero, Virgil and
others will become more commonplace as the class begins to use the authentic
sources to study the culture and history of the Romans. Each trimester
will contain a special project pertaining to a specific aspect of the
study of the Romans (warfare, politics, linguistics, etc.).
Latin III Full year
The third year of study will consist of finishing the text that will have been used since Latin I followed by the translation of ancient texts and discussions of the major Roman authors. Eloquence and expertise
in translation as well as writing will be cultivated and refined as the
finer points of Latin are mastered. Students will take on a more active
role in the class as they begin teaching each other through a series of
special projects.
Latin IV Full year
The fourth year of Latin study at MVS always begins with a focus on Virgil's Aeneid. The study of the work will be through prepared and site translations of key areas of the text with some time devoted to analyzing the societal context and meter of the piece. The remainder of the class will be organized to respond to the skills and interests of the students through further reading of ancient authors. When available and appropriate, teaching experiences will help to reinforce the students' skills and confidence. Though this course is not drawn to the AP curriculum, students will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the AP exam should they desire to.
Spanish I Full year
Students develop basic speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills
for the purpose of self-expression about daily activities. Grammar and
vocabulary are taught in a cultural context.
Spanish II Full year
In a review and continuation of content taught in Level I, students will
study additional vocabulary and grammar, in a cultural context, with the
goal of developing fluency.
Spanish III Full year
In Spanish III, students review and refine the basic skills of reading,
writing, speaking, and listening comprehension. Grammar is reviewed and
extended as are vocabulary and culture. Authentic examples of Hispanic
literature are read and discussed in Spanish. Building fluency is the
goal of this course.
Spanish IV Full year
Spanish IV is offered to all students who have completed Level III. It
is a culmination of the previous three levels, with great emphasis in
speaking, listening, reading, writing, and culture. Students will review
and refine language skills through grammatical practice. Reading skills
are enhanced through authentic literature, such as the short stories of
Spain and Latin America. Also, students will use a variety of media: newspapers,
magazines, essays, and videos, to explore life in Hispanic cultures.
Spanish V Full Year
Spanish V provides an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their
Spanish skills. This course is based on improving speaking skills through
dialogues, comprehension questions, patterns, and vocabulary expansion.
Students can build their Spanish skills through literary analysis, discussion,
and composition. Literature of Spain and Latin America will be discussed.
Students have an option to challenge themselves for AP Spanish.
Introduction to Mandarin - trimester
In this trimester course, students will be exposed to the sounds and tones of Mandarin. Basic vocabulary will be taught in a cultural context. Writing will be in Pinyin, the Romanized pronunciation system, and some Simplified Chinese characters will be learned as well. See more information on the Asian Studies program and the instructor.
Mandarin 1 Full Year
Mandarin is one of the most spoken languages in the world. In this course, new to MVS during the 2007-08 school year, you will explore the Mandarin language, literature and the culture of China. The four basic skills of language will be stressed: speaking and listening, with reading and writing first in Pinyin and then in Simplified Chinese characters. |
