Upper School Modern and Classical Languages
The Modern and Classical Languages Department prepares boys to be leaders and citizens in their local, national, and global communities, where a command of multiple languages is not simply beneficial, but necessary.
Our faculty engages students using traditional and modern methodologies rooted in the following interconnected principles:
Cross-cultural engagement and empathy: Learning a new language affords students the unique opportunity to gain perspective on cultures that differ in place and time. Simultaneously, understanding another language and culture encourages them to reflect on and better appreciate their own. Our collaborative program motivates boys to be open, inclusive, and empathetic.
Language acquisition: We aspire towards boys achieving proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in their respective languages while reaching the rigorous linguistic standards that we uphold. Our faculty fosters cross-cultural communication, inspires intellectual risk-taking, and instills confidence in students to navigate unfamiliar discourse.
Authentic experience: Our classes contextualize language study by incorporating meaningful and authentic resources. We value and intentionally provide immersive experiences that align with our curriculum and partner with the Global Studies program for students to connect with communities locally and abroad.
Students begin their language studies in Sixth grade with a trimester introduction to Chinese, Latin, and Spanish. They choose one of those languages to study in Form I and II before transitioning into the Upper School where they either continue studying the same language, switch to learning a new language, or add a second language. Almost all Haverford students study their language(s) through graduation.
Our faculty engages students using traditional and modern methodologies rooted in the following interconnected principles:
- Cross-cultural engagement and empathy: Learning a new language affords students the unique opportunity to gain perspective on cultures that differ in place and time. Simultaneously, understanding another language and culture encourages them to reflect on and better appreciate their own. Our collaborative program motivates boys to be open, inclusive, and empathetic.
- Language acquisition: We work alongside the boys, helping them to achieve proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in their respective languages while reaching the rigorous linguistic standards that we uphold. Our faculty fosters cross-cultural communication, inspires intellectual risk-taking, and instills confidence in students to navigate unfamiliar discourse.
- Authentic experience: Our classes contextualize language study by incorporating meaningful and authentic resources. We value and intentionally provide immersive experiences that align with our curriculum and partner with the Global Studies program for students to connect with communities locally and abroad and have various Travel-Study Programs.
Students begin their language studies in Sixth grade with a trimester introduction to Chinese, Latin, and Spanish. They choose one of those languages to study in Form I and II before transitioning into the Upper School where they either continue studying the same language, switch to learning a new language, or add a second language. Haverford students must complete two consecutive years of a language for graduation. Almost all Haverford students study their language(s) through graduation.
Programs
Chinese Program:
Communicative language skills are the foundation of our Chinese program. By emphasizing listening and speaking followed by reading and writing, students accumulate common words and phrases quickly at the introductory level. Thematic units that emphasize real-life situations, such as ordering food, traveling, or making plans with friends, help students develop skills they can use immediately, as well as build a foundation to continue their studies in college and beyond.
Latin Program:
The study of Latin at The Haverford School centers on the literature, history, and culture of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. After learning the key vocabulary and grammatical structures of Latin, students move on to experience a set of classical texts that have shaped Western culture, and continue to shape our world today
Spanish Program:
The humanity of past and present Spain and the Americas and the study of those cultures undergirds our Spanish program. The students’ acquisition of linguistic structures and new vocabulary builds the foundation for future immersion in the target language and growth into levelappropriate literature study, story creation, text analysis, and authentic oral dialogue.
What Modern and Classical Language courses are offered at The Haverford School?
Chinese Language Courses
Chinese I
This introductory course is offered to students with little or no prior experience in Mandarin Chinese. Basic background information of the language such as tones, pinyin, and characters will be introduced. Vocabulary, grammatical structures, and cultural references will be taught and discussed at an elementary level. Students will learn to read simple passages and write in simplified and/or traditional Chinese characters. Throughout the year students will engage in basic communicative tasks related to daily settings.
Chinese II
Prerequisite
This course helps students reinforce what they have acquired in Chinese I and continue to expand their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, by studying a variety of texts covering different aspects of daily life, simple academic subjects, cultural settings, and limited written expressions. After finishing the course, students are to be able to communicate more comfortably and confidently on simple daily and academic subjects and to have acquired a solid reading and writing knowledge to get ready for studying semi-authentic and authentic Chinese texts at advanced levels.
Chinese III
Prerequisite
This course continues to build on skills, comprehension, and proficiency developed previously in Chinese II. Students will participate collaboratively in guided conversations and presentations in both written and oral formats. The themes will be focused on daily-life topics throughout the year. They will develop strategies and language skills to talk about themselves and communicate with others on familiar topics in intercultural situations where Mandarin is used.
Chinese III*
Prerequisite
This Chinese III* class offers the same curriculum as the standard Chinese III class but is tailored for high-achieving students. The teachers design instruction and assessment with the expectation that students need little remediation in these areas. Students will be expected to communicate in greater depth.
Chinese IV
Prerequisite
This class is designed for students who have successfully completed Chinese III or III*. In addition to reviewing previously learned vocabulary and grammatical patterns, students will learn new ways to express themselves in Chinese. The main goal of the course is to improve students’ levels of communicative competence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in modern Chinese. By the end of the course, students will attain approximately the Intermediate-mid level on the ACTFL proficiency scale.
Chinese IV*
Prerequisite
This Chinese IV* class offers the same curriculum as the standard Chinese IV class but is tailored for high-achieving students. Teachers design instruction and assessment with the expectation that students need little remediation in these areas. Students will be expected to communicate in greater depth.
Chinese V
Prerequisite
This class is designed for students who have successfully completed Chinese IV. This advanced course helps students refine their Mandarin Chinese listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency. Students will use authentic materials such as short stories and modern media to develop their communicative competence. Classroom activities emphasize collaborative discussions, presentations, and writing assignments. Additionally, students engage in meaningful cultural exploration to deepen their understanding of Chinese-speaking communities, aligning with the program’s goals of fostering crosscultural empathy and global citizenship.
Chinese V*
Prerequisite
Chinese V* offers an intensive exploration of advanced Mandarin Chinese. This course is designed for highly motivated students seeking to elevate their listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency. Students will critically engage with themes through essays, discussions, debates, and multimedia projects. With an emphasis on intellectual risk-taking and nuanced communication, the course prepares students for advanced academic pursuits in Chinese. Honors students are held to a higher standard of performance and independence, progressing accelerated with a focus on cultural and linguistic fluency.
Latin Language Courses
Latin I
This class is designed to introduce students with little or no prior experience with Latin to the language and culture of the Roman world. Students learn the fundamentals of Latin grammar and syntax and begin to build their Latin vocabulary with emphasis on the words that English derives from Latin. Students also study the mythology, history, and culture of the classical world in order to broaden their appreciation of the foundations of Western civilization.
Latin II
Prerequisite
This course, offered to students who have completed Latin I in the Middle or Upper School, reviews the fundamentals of Latin I and introduces more sophisticated grammatical concepts requisite for success at the intermediate level. To introduce the art of translation, fables and mythological stories are read, as well as adapted selections from ancient literature. Emphasis is placed on precise analysis and expression in preparation for reading the original works of the Latin writers in Latin III.
Latin II*
Prerequisite
Students who choose this course should be especially eager to continue their study of Latin and classical literature. While including the elements described for Latin II, the pace and depth of the curriculum are aggressive and presume an avid enthusiasm for scholarship. Students will complete the fundamentals of Latin grammar while reading and translating a significant body of Latin literature. In addition, students will study the history and culture of ancient Rome in depth, using archaeological and epigraphic as well as literary sources.
Latin III
In this course, students bridge their study of Latin grammar and syntax with reading authentic Roman texts. Students examine ancient Roman history , mythology, and culture while continuing to build their Latin vocabulary and mastering sophisticated grammatical concepts. The semester will culminate in reading the works of Julius Caesar and examining their historical context.
Latin III*
Prerequisite
This course allows the student to apply his knowledge of Latin grammar, syntax and vocabulary to the reading, translating, analyzing and understanding of Latin literature from the late Republic. Particular emphasis will be placed on the works of Caesar and Cicero. In conjunction with our translations, students will study the literary, cultural, intellectual and historical contributions of the ancient Roman world. This course proceeds at an enhanced pace and depth.
Latin IV
Prerequisite
Students study the traditions of ancient epic by reading the Iliad, its ancient Latin translation, the Ilias Latina, and Vergil’s epic poem the Aeneid. They will read selections of the original Latin and examine and discuss the entire works in English. In addition to mastering Latin epic meter, students will become familiar with Latin poetic style and its place in the history of literature. Through extensive reading, translation, and textual analysis, students develop their confidence in reading at sight and, by writing short papers and giving oral reports on relevant topics, enhance their appreciation of poetic artistry.
Latin IV*
Prerequisite
Students study Vergil’s epic poem the Aeneid in its historical setting as well as in its place within the traditions of the epic genre. They read extensive selections in Latin, while examining and discussing the entire work in English. In addition to mastering Latin epic meter, students become familiar with figures of speech and Vergil’s unparalleled poetic style. Through extensive reading, translation and textual analysis, students develop their confidence in reading at sight and, by writing short papers and giving oral reports on relevant topics, enhance their appreciation of Vergil’s artistry. This course, in comparison with the Latin IV course, proceeds at a greatly enhanced pace and depth.
Latin V: Prose* (Fall)
Prerequisite
In this course students will have the opportunity to read and study a variety of Roman prose writings including history, political commentary, philosophy and letters. The works of authors such as Livy, Tacitus, Suetonius, Caesar, Cicero and/or Pliny will provide the basis for a more thorough understanding of the Roman Republic and Empire. The prose selections will enable students to improve both their reading fluency and literary analysis skills as they gain a better appreciation of Roman culture, history and literature.
Latin IV: Poetry* (Spring)
Prerequisite
In this course, students will have the opportunity to read and study a range of Roman poetry including epic, lyric and satire. The works of authors such as Ovid, Catullus, Martial and/or Juvenal will offer the student insights into Roman thinking about politics, love, everyday life, mythology and poetry. The poetry will enable students to improve both their reading fluency and literary analysis skills as they gain a better appreciation of Roman culture, history and literature.
Spanish Language Courses
Spanish I
Prerequisite
This course is designed for the student who has had little or no prior exposure to the Spanish language. It emphasizes the acquisition of fundamental practical vocabulary, a solid foundation in basic grammatical structures, a detailed study of the verb system and the development of sound pronunciation and speaking skills.
SPanish II
Prerequisite Students enrolled in this course have successfully completed Haverford’s first year of the language or an equivalent course of study. In Spanish II, students will continue to build a solid foundation in the fundamentals of grammar and in the acquisition of a practical, useful, contemporary vocabulary for oral and written communication in a variety of everyday situations. Furthermore, through various cultural explorations, students will continue to expand their knowledge of Hispanic cultures. Students participate in daily oral drills, complete translation exercises, read short passages and write one-page compositions. Throughout the year, the students continue to expand their vocabulary and strengthen their precision both in speaking and writing in the past, present, and future.
SPanish II*
Prerequisite
Students enrolled in this course have successfully completed Haverford’s first year of the language or an equivalent course of study, and are prepared for the significantly faster pace of this course. Students in this class will study the future, conditional, imperfect and perfect tenses of the indicative mood, and will also undertake a thorough study of the present subjunctive. The class will be conducted almost entirely in Spanish, and students will be expected to communicate primarily in the target language. Students will engage in oral drills, and translation exercises, and will create presentations and onepage compositions. The class will read and discuss short literary passages and current articles relevant to Hispanic culture.
Spanish III
Prerequisite
Students enrolled in this course have successfully completed Haverford’s Spanish II curriculum. Spanish III begins with a thorough review of grammar covered in the second year. Students will then continue their study of more complex grammatical structures and the Spanish verb system. They will begin to apply their skills to a variety of exercises designed to promote greater fluency in spoken and written Spanish.
SPanish III*
Prerequisite
This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Haverford’s Spanish II* curriculum. This third-year course begins with a review of second year skills and introduces appropriate new material to help students improve their command of grammatical structures, vocabulary, and comprehension of both literary and non-literary written Spanish. Short stories, films, and newspaper articles are incorporated into the curriculum, in order to foster greater understanding of Hispanic culture, and to help the student develop the skills necessary to express himself in spoken Spanish. Students in Spanish III* make the transition from sequential materials used at the previous levels of language instruction to the ability to express themselves creatively in oral and written Spanish.
SPanish IV
Prerequisite
The objective of this course is to help the students to convert the linguistic skills acquired during the three previous years into a coherent, clear, and useful means of communication. It prepares students to converse at length and handle everyday situations with confidence. Students view films in Spanish, and read literary works from worldrenowned Spanish and Latin American authors. They also use the authentic sources to read about current events in the Spanish speaking world. The films, literary readings and articles are the basis for classroom discussion and provide students with a general understanding and appreciation for the Hispanic culture. By the end of this course the student should have developed the self-assurance and confidence necessary for using the target language in informal conversations, or before a variety of audiences, ranging from a small circle of friends to a full class.
Spanish IV*
Prerequisite
This is an interactive course involving advanced vocabulary and grammatical structure, as well as intensive study and usage of the Spanish language. Students in Spanish IV * will discuss contemporary news, cultural topics, literary readings, and films in Spanish. The goal of this course is to help students achieve greater fluency, and, as such, it will enable students to communicate with greater confidence, giving them them tools they need to handle day-today situations in a contextualized setting.
SPanish V: Cine Del Mundo Hispano (F)
Prerequisite
This course addresses themes relevant to the 21st century in the Hispanic world, many of them polemic in nature. Topics include immigration, oppressive government regimes, global responsibility and regionalism versus globalization. Students learn the skill set necessary to watch, understand and interpret Hispanic film and ultimately enabling the students to view films critically and as empathetic global citizens. Advanced grammar and vocabulary will be reinforced through discussion and composition.
SPanish V: CONVERSACION Y CONTROVERSIA (S)
Prerequisite
In this semester-long course, students will explore global issues through the literature, art, history, politics, film, and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. Particular emphasis will be placed on developing speaking skills, but students will be required to complete nightly readings in order to participate effectively in class. Readings will be aimed at helping students develop cultural empathy and an understanding of current world events, and will include newspapers, blogs, and other internet sources, as well as literary works. In addition to daily class participation, students will be expected to work individually and in groups on diverse oral projects such as podcasts, presentations and debates. Additionally, several films will be chosen to complement the themes of the texts explored in class.
Spanish V: LATINOAMERICA EN EL SIGLO XX*
Prerequisite
This advanced class will use the literature, art and film of the last century to explore the role of political and economic events in the Spanish-speaking world, in particular the political changes, economic crises and social movements that have influenced and affected in the region. The content of this course will be tailored to student interest and current events. Students will be exposed to the unique voices of short story writers, journalists, poets, artists and filmmakers whose work was informed by these events. Students will also gain insight into the sociopolitical antecedents and repercussions of these critical events.
SPanish V: LITERATURA Y CULTURA LATINOAMERICA*
Prerequisite
In this course students will explore Latin American culture through literature. The short stories of such authors as Rulfo and Márquez will transform the reader’s understanding of the human experience. This advanced course is dedicated to reading and interpreting literature of the Spanish speaking world with particular emphasis on the short narrative. Immersed in the target language, students will participate actively in discussions and write reflections on literary and social justice topics. Students will explore the historical, cultural, and literary influence of various authors from all over Latin America and Spain through the 21st century.
What distinguishes the Modern and Classical Language Program at The Haverford School?
Haverford students consistently earn recognition at the regional and national levels, including honors from the Montgomery County Association of Teachers of Foreign Languages, the National Latin Exam, the Philadelphia Classical Society, the National Mythology Exam, and the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese. Students have earned top placements in oral proficiency, classical studies, and language competitions, reflecting the program's emphasis on authentic communication and cultural fluency.
The School also partners with schools around the world to offer language immersion opportunities and travel-study programs. In partnership with the School's Global Studies program, students extend classroom learning by living and learning in communities where their target language is spoken. Recent Travel-Study opportunities have included Taiwan for Chinese students; Italy and Greece for Latin students; and Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba, Spain, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica for Spanish students. These immersive experiences challenge students to communicate in authentic settings while deepening their understanding of history, culture, and global perspectives. Many programs include homestays, cultural excursions, and collaborative learning with local communities, allowing students to develop confidence, empathy, and intercultural competence. Upon returning to campus, participants share their experiences with the Haverford community, reinforcing the School's belief that language learning is a gateway to global citizenship. Approximately 40% of Haverford students participate in at least one Travel-Study program before graduation, underscoring the School's commitment to experiential learning and preparing students to engage thoughtfully in an interconnected world.
What are the outcomes of the Modern and Classical Language education at The Haverford School?
Interviews with Haverford alumni and recent stories from the School community reflect a consistent outcome of the Modern and Classical Languages program: graduates become confident communicators who approach the world with curiosity, empathy, and confidence. Alumni across industries—from technology and entrepreneurship to medicine and public service—frequently credit Haverford with teaching them to embrace new perspectives, communicate across differences, and pursue lifelong learning. Those habits are cultivated in the language classroom, where students develop proficiency through authentic conversation, cultural study, and immersive experiences, rather than memorization alone. Recent campus highlights also showcase students extending their learning beyond the classroom through language-focused travel to Italy, Mexico, and Taiwan, cultural celebrations, and oral proficiency competitions, reinforcing the department's belief that language is best learned by engaging with people and communities. By graduation, students have developed more than multilingual skills—they have gained the confidence to navigate unfamiliar environments, collaborate across cultures, and become thoughtful global citizens prepared to lead in an increasingly interconnected world.
What are people saying about the Modern and Classical Language program at The Haverford School?
Haverford’s Modern and Classical Languages program prepares students to communicate with confidence, embrace new perspectives, and engage meaningfully with the world. Alumni and students describe how language study has shaped their ability to connect across cultures and pursue global opportunities.
My best advice for students would be to find a teacher (or teachers) who really reaches and understands you. You should try to do the best you can in everything, but especially in those subjects that interest you the most. If there’s something (Spanish and music in my case) that you’re passionate about, don’t wait until college or later to immerse yourself in it.Darryl Clark '75, Spain-based translator and touring musician
The connections I made in Cuba opened my eyes to the similarities between people all over the world. It was interesting to talk to many artists in English and Spanish to learn about their works. My time in Cuba developed me as a global citizen.Jackson, then-Fourth Former, reflecting on the School's Cuba trip
Tainan First High hosted a welcome ceremony for our group, and {Haverford student] Hugh did an excellent job representing our school by delivering his introduction in Chinese. Since then, I’ve received several compliments from their teachers and principal, and multiple staff members shared how impressed they were with his confidence and sincerity.Yi Lee, Haverford School Chinese Language Faculty Member
Who teaches Modern and Classical Languages at The Haverford School?
The Modern and Classical Languages department faculty at The Haverford School includes teachers with advanced degrees in their field, professional experience, and internationally-recognized teaching. Our faculty regularly attend and present at conferences advancing boys' school education, such as those offered by the International Boys' Schools Coalition (IBSC).
Where do I go to learn more about the Modern and Classical Languages department at The Haverford School?
To learn more about the Modern and Classical Languages department at The Haverford School, read the Modern and Classical Languages department's philosophy here.
Explore the School's Global Studies program here.
To learn more about The Haverford School, reach out to our admissions team at admissions@haverford.org or submit an inquiry form to begin the admissions process.
To explore other aspects of our curriculum, browse our offerings here.
Last updated July 2026