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Middle School: Curriculum: Languages
Latin student studying LatinAll Latin sixth grade students are introduced to a formal study of language through an elementary study of Latin. By the end of the sixth grade year all students will have been exposed to Latin, French, Chinese, and Spanish and are able to make an informed choice when selecting a language to study for the remainder of Middle School as well as for Upper School. The exposure to Latin also complements language arts study in the Middle School.

Grade 6 - Latin: An Introduction to the Study of Language
A primary goal of the course is to provide students with a good understanding of the ideas and terminology of language study and the functions of words within a sentence. It also entails teaching concepts that are common among the English language and the four languages taught at the School: gender of nouns, agreement of adjectives, and verb conjugations.

Latin 7
This course builds on the foundations begun in grade six, including the study of Latin vocabulary and grammar and Roman history and culture. Latin vocabulary is still studied as an aid for English vocabulary as well as for its own sake.

Latin 8
Latin 8 continues the study of Latin vocabulary and grammar and Roman history and culture. The grammar studied deals with more complex sentences.

French 7
French 7 develops students’ skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The culture of the French-speaking world is also taught and discussed.

French 8
Students expand their knowledge of French grammar and vocabulary as well as develop their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills through a variety of activities.

Spanish 7
Spanish 7 develops students’ skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing through a variety of activities. The culture of Spanish-speaking countries is also studied.

Spanish 8
Students expand their knowledge of Spanish grammar and vocabulary as well as develop their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills through a variety of activities.

Chinese 7
Chinese 7 will develop student competency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing through oral and conversational practice and written exercises. Students will begin by learning the Pinyin system of reading and writing, and then progress to reading and writing Chinese characters. Chinese art, history, and culture also will be presented. A vocabulary list seventh grade students might memorize in Chinese class:

Chinese 8
This course expands upon the skills gained in Chinese 7 by continuing to develop competency in the four skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students are exposed to Chinese culture through readings in translation as well as simple articles in Chinese, class activities, and videos. Students also will continue to learn and be expected to recognize simple Chinese characters.