About Foreign Language at St. Michael
St. Michael High School offers three different foreign languages: French, Latin, and Spanish. In this diverse world, the need for learning a second language is unquestionably important. Studying a foreign language will not only open up students to a better understanding of the world they live in, but the critical thinking involved will improve their minds as well. In addition, learning the structure and vocabulary of a second language will also help improve the students’ English skills. Knowing a second language can also assist students in their future education and career opportunities.
French I – CP
Level: College Prep
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Prerequisite: Department Placement Criteria for freshmen only.
Description: This course is designed to introduce the student to conversational French. Basic vocabulary and grammar are taught as listening, reading and writing skills in French are developed. Actual use of French in the classroom will increase as the year progresses.
French II – CP
Level: College Prep
Grade Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: French I
Description: French II is a continuation of French I. An in-depth study of French grammar and culture is explored. The student will acquire an extensive vocabulary in the language through daily use of all skills. Actual use of French in the classroom will increase as the year progresses.
French III – Honors
Level: Honors
Grade Level: 11 – 12
Prerequisite: French I and II; teacher recommendation
Description: This course offers further opportunities for understanding and speaking French, learning about the culture and history of France, and learning new words and structures. More stress is placed on reading French literature and on writing than in previous courses.
French IV – Honors
Level: Honors
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: French I, II and III; teacher recommendation.
Description: French IV is a continuation of French III. This course is designed to improve the student’s mastery of French. The emphasis is on French literature and composition. Emphasis will be on conversational French.
Latin I – CP
Level: College Prep
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Prerequisite: Department Placement Criteria for freshmen only.
Description: This course introduces students to the Latin language. Emphasis is placed on Latin and English grammar, Latin vocabulary for English vocabulary building, comprehension and writing skills. The course also provides an introduction to Roman culture with an emphasis on mythology and the daily life of the Romans.
Latin II
Level: College Prep
Grade Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Latin I
Description: This course continues the study of grammar begun in Latin I and builds on more complex concepts. More emphasis is placed on comprehension and writing skills. The study of Roman culture is continued with an introduction to Roman history.
Latin III – Honors
Level: Honors
Grade Level: 11 – 12
Prerequisite: Latin I, II, and teacher recommendation.
Description: This course continues the study of grammar begun in Latin I and II and builds on more complex concepts with the goal of reading the Latin prose of Cicero and Caesar. Latin texts provide students with an in-depth study of the Roman Republic.
Latin IV – Honors
Level: Honors
Grade Level: 11 – 12
Prerequisite: Latin I, II, III, and teacher recommendation.
Description: This course continues to build proficiency in the Latin language with a focus on reading and grammar skills. Students will increase their understanding of Latin vocabulary and grammar with the goal of reading several Roman authors of both prose and poetry. Latin texts provide students an in-depth study of the Roman Republic and Early Empire.
Spanish I – CP
Level: College Prep
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Prerequisite: Department Placement Criteria for freshmen only.
Description: Spanish I will serve as an introduction to the Spanish language and culture. Emphasis will be placed on vocabulary, grammar, reading, and writing. Special attention will be given to the development of pronunciation, speaking, and listening skills.
Spanish II – CP
Level: College Prep
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Prerequisite: Spanish I
Description: Spanish II will enhance and develop skills learned in Spanish I. The subject area will include advanced grammar, advanced vocabulary, and additional verb tenses, as well as increased conversation and composition skills.
Spanish III – Honors
Level: Honors
Grade Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Spanish I and II; teacher recommendation.
Description: Spanish III is an advanced course in which skills learned in earlier courses will be enhanced and further developed. Special emphasis will be placed on both written and oral communication, while advanced reading selections shall include novels, short stories, and periodicals.
Spanish IV – Honors
Level: Honors
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Spanish I, II and III; teacher recommendation.
Description: This course is a continuation of Spanish literature and composition. The main emphasis is on mastery of skills and vocabulary expansion.