Class XI Modern Language Descriptions

FRENCH IV COMPREHENSIVE: In this course, students will work toward greater independence in the use of the language by expanding their vocabulary, studying complex grammatical structures, and analyzing a variety of cultural and literary sources, including a full-length work of literature. They will be introduced to Francophone poetry and will strengthen their speaking skills through discussion and debate.

FRENCH IV: While continuing to build their speaking and listening skills, students read and analyze classic and contemporary French and Francophone literature and culture. Students review grammar and read and analyze texts from a variety of sources, including theatrical works, poetry, and full-length novels. Students also learn about literary terminology and versification, how to construct an argument using primary and secondary sources in French, and discuss cultural history from a global perspective. Students will also study and discuss a range of audio-visual materials, including songs, news articles, radio interviews, and film clips from the Francophone world.

MANDARIN IV: In this course, students explore a range of genres, including an extensive reading of essays, stories, contemporary TV shows, and newspaper and magazine articles related to unit themes. They will engage in discussions on current events, research Chinese history and social issues, including influential Chinese Americans, and produce both analytical and creative writing.

SPANISH III COMPREHENSIVE-BEGINNER (For students who began in Class IX): Students will continue their studies, concentrating on essential grammar structures in the indicative and subjunctive moods. A variety of interactive media resources and authentic materials will be used to enhance their reading, writing, listening, and conversational skills while deepening their cultural understanding of the Spanish-speaking world.

SPANISH III COMPREHENSIVE-ADVANCED (For students who started in Class IX on the comprehensive-advanced track): Students will consolidate their command of advanced grammar structures, emphasizing the complete conjugation system, including the indicative, subjunctive, and imperative moods. Students will reinforce their oral and written communication skills by discussing relevant topics about cultural diversity in Spanish-speaking countries. Students end the course reading selected chapters from an adapted version of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quijote.

SPANISH IV (For students who began in Class V): Continued formal study of diverse materials, including short stories, poetry, and nonfiction about the history of Spanish-speaking countries. Students study a full-length play (La Casa de Bernarda Alba by Federico García Lorca), short stories, poems, nonfiction, films, and media critically. Advanced grammar and literary analysis are strengthened through writing and oral presentations.