Middle School Spanish

The Spanish Program at Gerstell Academy is designed to take students through the stages of language learning, focusing on the ability to communicate in all areas of the language (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).  It honors the natural progression of (first) language learners where infants have ample time to develop receptive skills (understanding) followed by oral expressive skills (talking), before being introduced to written communication.  Instruction is delivered almost always in Spanish to create an environment of linguistic and cultural immersion.  It is always embedded in a context of age appropriate activities and interests.  Students will become familiar with the cultures of Spanish speaking countries to cultivate an understanding of and appreciation for the Hispanic world.  Respectful and appropriate ways to communicate and interact with those whose first language is Spanish will be emphasized. In the middle school while continuing to emphasize oral communication and the acquisition of a broader vocabulary and complex syntax, students will be formally introduced to grammar, reading, and writing skills throughout the 7th and 8th grades. The 6th grade Spanish course will include special attention to those influential leaders and explorers from Spanish speaking countries.

Upon graduation from Upper School, students are expected to attain functional fluency.  Functional fluency is defined at Gerstell as the ability to find their way in a foreign country, meet their needs, inform themselves about their surroundings, and maintain a conversation with native speakers. The Gerstell Spanish Program adheres to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) National Guidelines for Foreign Languages in a Kindergarten through Grade 12 program and the recommendations set forth by the Modern Language Association.