World Language
The study of a world language is fundamental in the general
education of any student. The study of another language enriches
students’ lives and expands their perspective through the study of
culture and literature. There is a compelling and realistic reason
for all students to study a language. Knowing more than one
language is necessary for our economic survival and well being in an
increasingly global society. The implementation of the study of
world languages in the New Jersey Core Curriculum has validated for
many years what research had shown for a long time: the process of
learning another language sharpens students’ learning skills, helps
them score higher on standardized tests, and provides them with an
invaluable marketing tool.
Why study a world language?
The West New York School District believes that it is essential
for students to learn a language, other than English, in order to
compete in the global society of the 21st Century.
Research shows the advantages derived from studying another language
and understanding the practices of other cultures. Verbal and math
scores, in all types of standardized tests, climb higher with each
additional year of world language study. Therefore, we
enthusiastically implement a sequential study of a language
alongside, and integrating with, other major disciplines, from the
primary grades through high school.
What is the philosophy of the WL Program in WNY?
It is our philosophy that a world language cannot be taught
using a separate, isolated curriculum. Therefore, the West New York
World Language Program adheres closely to the students’ daily
classroom studies. The learning of a language will be
student-centered and will encompass interdisciplinary activities
promoting individual learning, critical and higher order thinking.
Through this interactive and progressive approach, supported by
appropriate use of technology, we are committed to providing
students with both the academic and personal advantage derived from
a world language study and, equally important, personal awareness
and appreciation of our diverse society.
What is the purpose of the WL Curriculum in WNY?
The purpose of the World Language Curriculum in West New York is
to introduce the study of another language and culture from the
first grade onward: research shows that children are most receptive
and more able to learn at a very young age. Instruction is provided
in all elementary grades to foster competency and interest in the
Spanish language and Hispanic culture.
What is the criterion used for the design of the program?
The study and acquisition of another language is progressively
and sequentially continue through the elementary levels and
culminates at the high school levels. The criterion is presently
reflected in the implementation of World Language instruction in our
school system starting in kindergarten and continuing through 8th
grade at the Middle School. At the 9th grade level,
students may continue receiving Spanish instruction or begin to
study French or Italian language and culture. These language
courses are taught using a comprehensive curriculum that is aligned
to the New Jersey World Language Curriculum Standard:
7.1
All students will be able to use a world language in addition to
English to engage in meaningful conversation, to understand and
interpret spoken and written language, and to present information,
concepts, and ideas, while also gaining an understanding of the
perspectives of other cultures. Through language study, they will
make connections with other content areas, compare the language and
culture studied with their own, and participate in home and global
communities.
Why was Spanish taught since the start of the program?
The West New York District has taught Spanish since its
introduction in 1998 at the elementary schools because this language
is the most widely spoken after English in the United States, and
the limited availability of qualified language instructors. The
study of Spanish allows our monolingual and bilingual students, who
speak another language other than Spanish, the opportunity to
practice and reinforce their new skills outside the classroom. At
the same time, our bilingual students (Spanish), who possess varied
levels of proficiency and competency in the language, are guided to
improve their speaking and writing skills.
What other language choices are offered by the WL Program?
Students at the high school level have the option to select
French, Italian, or Spanish for their world language instruction.
These courses are taught by native speakers in most cases, or
near-native language teachers who possess a vast knowledge of the
target language and culture. One of the vital aspects of our
program is the study of customs and practices of different peoples
in the world as well as in our community. Our program is designed
to increase students’ quest for knowledge, promote appreciation of
cultures, and, most importantly, create life-long learners.
Who is eligible for the World Language Program?
Every student from Kindergarten to 8th Grade is
provided with 40 minutes a week of Spanish instruction. At the
high school level, students are offered the choice of three
languages, French, Italian, or Spanish for 40 minutes 5 times a week
for two years (Level 1 and Level 2) in order to fulfill the current
college entrance requirement.
What if a student is interested in advance courses of a
language?
There is Level 3 and AP for each of the languages taught at the
high school for students who have successfully completed Level 1 and
Level 2 of the language. In addition, 7th Graders are
tested with Spanish Honors version of the 8th Grade
Placement test given in the spring. Those who receive a passing
grade are given the opportunity to take a pre-first class of Spanish
Honors as an 8th Grader and receive high school credit
upon a successful completion of the course.
How are students grouped in WL classes?
Non-Spanish speakers are usually placed in Spanish R classes in
Level 1, 2, or 3. For heritage speakers of Spanish, there are
additional courses depending on their fluency – beginners,
intermediate, or advanced – Spanish R, Spanish M, and Spanish S.
What will my child be taught?
Teachers focus on a variety of themes throughout the school
year, the basic vocabulary to deal with each theme, and reading and
writing selections to illustrate the topic of the lessons
discussed. The four basic skills are addressed: listening,
speaking, reading and writing. Each skill is introduced and
practiced throughout the school year in order to increase the
student’s proficiency and fluency in the language as well as to help
him/her meet the state WL academic standards.
How well prepared are WL teachers to teach French, Italian
and/or Spanish?
They are highly qualified teachers who hold elementary and/or
secondary education certificates as well as French, Italian and/or
Spanish certificates to teach the language K to 12 grades. In most
cases, they are native speakers or have reached near-native fluency
and possess a vast knowledge of the target culture(s).
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