Foreign Language
In Middle School we begin with the instruction of Spanish and Latin in the Prima Lingua class in sixth grade.Students then decide in seventh-grade whether to continue with Spanish or Latin.
Latin
Form I Latin examines the linguistic, cultural and historic traditions of the Greco-Roman civilizations as they complement, influence and contrast with others through time. Elements of language, grammar, tense and case formation, syntax and translation are the prime focus of study.Since Latin is a basic constituent of the English and other modern languages, there is an emphasis on Latin roots and their derivatives.The Latin curriculum includes aspects of Roman history, daily life, geography, literature, art, architecture, culture and mythology, giving context to the stories and passages presented for translation.Greek and Roman gods, mythical monsters and simple love myths are points of focus.Students learn to read Latin as the language and literature of a vibrant people and explore how it lives on through the ages, even in their world today.The Form I student should master the equivalent of a semester of a strong high school Latin I course. He uses a Latin I text which he will continue to use in Form II. Supplemental texts and materials provide practice and enrichment.
Spanish
During seventh and eighth grade, students receive a solid foundation in the structure of the Spanish language as well as an understanding of the cultural background of the many Spanish speaking countries.On the introductory level there is an emphasis on basic vocabulary and fundamental grammatical concepts.The students of Spanish should be able to engage in an easy conversation, speaking in complete and grammatically correct sentences.They are also able to read easy texts, summarize them in their own words and narrate a story in front of the class.We use BUEN VIAJE as a textbook to study all the grammatical concepts and to read easy passages.In addition we study some readers with stories and fables the boys are familiar with:The Dschungelbook, The turtle and the hare, Goldilocks etc.