World Language
All MSMS graduates must have successfully completed two years of high school world language study, with both credits being in the same language. Those who choose to complete the requirement at MSMS can select from courses in five languages: French, German, Latin, Russian, and Spanish. World language courses offer a strong background in vocabulary, grammar, reading, translation, and pronunciation skills, which will enhance the success of college-bound students in university world language courses as well as lay the framework upon which students who travel abroad may sharpen their conversational skills. Emphasis is also placed on the understanding and appreciation of the culture of the target country.
Requirements for graduation
Students who have never earned credit in a World language course before entering MSMS, must earn 2 World language credits during the junior and senior years.
A majority of out-of-state universities require that the two credits of World language be in the same language. (example: Spanish I and II) In order for a student to enroll in two different languages concurrently approval must be obtained from the Academic Director.
Objectives
Within the study of World languages, the student will be equipped:
1. To understand and speak, at a beginning level, at least one World language;
2. Understand the differences between their own culture and that of others;
3. To have a heightened awareness and comprehension of their own native tongue; and
4. To realize the importance of the study of language and culture as they relate to their country’s needs in commerce, diplomacy, defense, and education.
Courses offered
This course introduces the student to the language and culture of the French speaking world. The language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing will be developed in simple French. Students will learn to communicate in situations involving greetings, describing people and relationships, school, basic purchasing and asking for help, and leisure activities. Students will learn to speak using present tense, past tense, and the near future.
This course continues the study of the basic structures of both the oral and written French language. It includes a continuing review of the important elements learned in French I, while introducing additional verb tenses and pronoun groups.
In Spanish I students learn the basics of Spanish grammar and begin their acquaintance with the history, geography and culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Lessons and activities focus on developing initial skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in simple situations involving friends, family, school and leisure.
Spanish II builds on skills acquired in Spanish I by adding new vocabulary, verb tenses and pronoun groups. Through exercises including situational dialogues and games of grammar, students expand their repertoire to communicate in scenarios such as traveling, seeking medical help, and shopping for clothes or food.
In this introductory course, students will acquire a basic Latin vocabulary and understanding of Latin grammar that will expand their English vocabulary, particularly in terms used in science, law, and SAT/ACT preparation, and improve students’ understanding of English grammar and writing ability. There will also be discussion of Roman culture and mythology, including individual projects where students are free to explore topics of interest.
Latin II students will continue with grammar and vocabulary, leading to a solid basis of knowledge in the language and translation of some basic original texts in Latin. Emphasis the second semester will be on the Latin roots of English words in math, science, and government. Students will also learn about Roman culture and history, its famous people and accomplishments.
This course introduces the student to the language and culture of German-speaking world. All the languages skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing will be developed in simple German. Students will learn to communicate in situations involving greetings, describing people and relationships, school, basic purchasing and asking for help, and leisure activities. Students will learn to speak using present tense and past tense.
This course continues the study of the basic structures of both the oral and written German language. It includes a continuing review of the important elements learned in German I, while introducing additional verb tenses, pronoun groups, and elements of the case structure. An emphasis is placed on understanding both written and spoken German.
This course introduces students to the Russian language and the history, geography and culture of the Slavic world. All language skills — listening, speaking, reading, and writing — will be developed to enable the student to communicate at a basic level in situations involving family, friends and school. Study of grammar and pronunciation is enhanced through memorization and performance of simple dialogues, songs and poetry.
This course continues the study of the basic structures of both oral and written Russian. It includes a continuing review of the important elements learned in Russian I, while introducing new vocabulary, additional elements of the case structure and additional verb forms. All language skills — listening, speaking, reading, and writing — will be developed. Textbook and conversational exercises will be supplemented with study of Russia’s splendid fairy tales, folk songs and poetry.