World Languages

The World Languages Department at Bronxville High School offers courses in French, Latin and Spanish.

The School encourages students to earn three or more units of credit in one world language. Students may also choose to begin a second world language in high school.

The study of a world language at the Bronxville school opens up opportunities for students to think critically and explore history and culture. Through the study of topics such as immigration, and the concept of home across cultures, students expand their cultural understanding to engage with the world around them. Additionally, the learning of another language develops risk taking skills that help students in profound ways beyond the content area and help them to develop their abilities to become innovators, critical thinkers, engaged citizens and leaders.

Proficiency in a world language facilitates the communication and the exchange of ideas and information in many areas. The department is committed to developing students' language competence and proficiency by helping them learn to understand, speak, read and write effectively in the target language..

Proficiency in another language also fosters greater awareness of cultural diversity among the peoples of the world. Individuals who have world language skills can appreciate more readily the perspectives and practices of cultures other than their own.

Additionally, through the study of culture, students explore the universality of the human experience. Students gain insight into the values, behavior and linguistic patterns of other cultures and develop a deeper understanding of, appreciation for, and sensitivity to cultures and communities around the world.

Courses include:

French I H 411 Latin I H 412 Spanish I H 410

French 9 H 416 Latin II H 422 Spanish 9 H 415

French II H 421 Latin III H 432 Spanish II H 420

French III H 431 Latin IV H 442 Spanish III H 430

French IV H 441 AP Latin 475 Spanish IV H 440

French CCC H 454 Latin V 485 Spanish V H 450

AP French Language 465 AP Spanish Language 455

French I H

FRENCH I H 411

Full year, 1 credit

Magnifique, fantastique...60% of the English language is said to come from French, so students already have a head start on the first day! The emphasis in this class is on oral comprehension and speaking skills as well as basic writing. French and francophone culture come alive through the textbook, movie selections, music videos (la musique de mercredi) and interactive projects. An appreciation for French cuisine is not required but definitely encouraged!

CourseCatalog_French1.mp4

French 9 H

FRENCH 9 H 416

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in French 8

Continuons! Students continue to strengthen and develop the language skills they honed in the Middle School. Listening exercises will accustom students to hearing native French speech. Students will be encouraged and guided to express themselves in French, both in speaking and in writing. Students will learn about daily life in the French-speaking world through the textbook, literature, movies and current videos. Supplementary material will be selected to keep pace with students' interests and ability. Skits, French songs, food tasting are features of this course.

CourseCatalog_French9_French2.mp4

French II H

FRENCH II H 421

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in French I H

CourseCatalog_French9_French2.mp4

French III H

FRENCH III H 431

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in French II H or French 9

Students have an opportunity to put previously acquired skills to work as they continue their study of French language and culture. The use of authentic materials and the acting-out of practical real-life situations are some of the methods used to develop proficiency. The theme-based curriculum is based on the themes adopted by the AP college board. We explore Beauty and Aesthetics by delving into the history of art and getting to know great French artists like Monet and Delacroix. Other themes like Global Challenges and Contemporary Life allow for debates about hot topics in current events such as immigration, racism and other social issues. Viewing and discussion of French films and video clips are an integral part of the French III curriculum. Students may take class trips in conjunction with themes covered, and will have the opportunity to participate in the High School exchange program in France.

CourseCatalog_French3.mp4

French IV H

FRENCH IV H 441

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in French III H

This course is designed for the French student who wishes to gain greater fluency in spoken and written French. The theme-based curriculum is based on the themes adopted by the AP college board. We explore Personal and Public Identities by following the tale of self-discovery and rite of passage in the classic novel, Le Petit Prince. We continue our adventures in self-discovery throughout the French-speaking world, looking at the world through the perspective of citizens of Quebec, countries in North and West Africa and the French islands in the Caribbean through film, poetry and current events. Concentration on oral proficiency will be the primary objective of the course while selected readings from French literature and contemporary French sources broaden knowledge and increase enjoyment. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in the High School exchange program in France.

CourseCatalog_French4.mp4

French Culture, Civilization & Cinema

FRENCH CULTURE, CIVILIZATION & CINEMA 454

(Formerly FRENCH V H)

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in French III H or IV H and recommendation of the World Language Teacher

This French class is for advanced students who wish to perfect their conversation skills without concentrating on the finer points of French grammar. Students learn to appreciate as well as analyse the “7ième art”: cinema. Through film, conversation and current events, students explore the past, present and future of the French-speaking world. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in the High School exchange program in France.

CourseCatalog_French CCC_French5.mp4

AP French Language

AP FRENCH LANGUAGE 465

Full year, 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in French IV H and recommendation of the World Language Teacher

The Advanced Placement Program in French is a college-level course for students who would like to develop their proficiency in French. Articulate speech and writing are stressed at all times. This course is the culmination of the skills begun at level 1 based around the six themes of the AP exam: Science/Technology, Contemporary Life, Family/Community, Global Challenges, Beauty/Aesthetics, and Personal/Public Identities. Together we explore the history and culture of France and the Francophone world through literature, cinema and current events to encourage fluent self-expression. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in the High School exchange program in France.

CourseCatalog_AP French.mp4

Latin I H

LATIN I H _________ 412

Full year, 1 credit

Ave atque vale! This course begins the study of a language which provides an excellent background for almost all European languages both in its grammar and vocabulary. Just as the Romans were excellent engineers, constructing bridges and aqueducts, the Latin language reflects this same precision. It provides more than 50% of English vocabulary. The primary goal of the course is to develop an ability to read and understand Latin through an engaging narrative about a Roman family. The secondary goal is to gain knowledge of Roman culture and its contributions to Western civilization.

Latin II H

LATIN II H ___________ 422

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Latin I H or Latin 8

Our study of the Roman family continues as we learn about their banquets, education, weddings, and funerals. After a thorough review of grammar, the remaining verb and noun forms are introduced. Units on culture are accompanied by films and documentaries about Roman civilization.

latin 2.mp4

Latin III

LATIN III _____________ 432

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Latin II H

Latin III is dedicated to the reading and analysis of primary sources from a variety of authors, including Eutropius, Caesar, Augustus, Cicero, and Pliny. Discussions and debates focus on the social and political problems that beset Rome and ultimately led to the end of the Republic. Attention is directed to the universal nature of Rome's problems and their relevance in contemporary society.

latin 3.mp4

Latin IV H

LATIN IV H ______ 442

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Latin III H

"Forsan et haec olim meminisse iuvabit." Latin IV, indeed, is a pleasure. Students concentrate on Vergil's Aeneid, one of the great masterpieces of Western literature. Selections of the Aeneid are read extensively in Latin. Techniques of literary analysis are developed and students learn the subtleties of poetic and historical expression. The Trojan cycle is studied in detail with attention given to Homer and the Greek tragedians.

Latin IV.mp4

Latin V H

LATIN V H ______ 485

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Latin IV and recommendation of the World Language Teacher

“Veni, vidi, vici!” In this course, students concentrate on a review of Vergil's Aeneid, one of the great masterpieces of Western literature and begin an in depth study of Caesar’s Gallic Wars. Students will read and analyze Latin selections of the Aeneid and the Gallic Wars. Techniques of literary analysis are developed and students learn the subtleties of poetic and historical expression.

AP Latin

AP LATIN 475

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in Latin IV and recommendation of the World Language Teacher

“Veni, vidi, vici!” In this course, students concentrate on a review of Vergil's Aeneid, one of the great masterpieces of Western literature and begin an in depth study of Caesar’s Gallic Wars. Students will read and analyze Latin selections of the Aeneid and the Gallic Wars in accordance with the syllabus set forth by the advanced placement program. Techniques of literary analysis are developed and students learn the subtleties of poetic and historical expression. The work is designed to prepare students for the AP exam at the end of the year.

AP Latin.mp4

Spanish I H

SPANISH I H 410

Full year, 1 credit

¡Vamos a hablar! Learn the most popular language other than English in the United States today. Active involvement is expected through daily conversations, collaborative activities, use of technology and projects that foster critical thinking. An understanding of and appreciation for the culture of Spanish-speaking peoples is encouraged. The basics of Spanish grammar and vocabulary are introduced through meaningful contexts. Some of the themes studied include leisure time activities, the family, home, holidays, health, personal identification and daily routine.

Spanish IH Course Catalog Video.webm

Spanish 9 H

SPANISH 9 H 415

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish 8

Students will continue to strengthen and develop the skills they developed in Spanish 7 and 8 through more advanced and varied subject matter, with emphasis on oral communication and critical thinking. Grammar will continue to be enhanced and expanded with special attention to the preterit and imperfect tenses as well as imperative. Students will speak and write on a variety of topics, expressing their needs and thoughts and recounting their activities in Spanish. Reading and supplementary authentic materials will be selected to keep pace with students' interests and ability. There will continue to be a focus on the cultures of Spanish speaking people as well.

Spanish 9H - Course Catalog .webm

Spanish II H

SPANISH II H 420

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish I H

Students will continue to strengthen and develop the skills they developed in Spanish I through more advanced and varied subject matter, with emphasis on oral communication and critical thinking. Grammar will continue to be enhanced and expanded with special attention to the preterit and imperfect tenses as well as imperative. Students will speak and write on a variety of topics, expressing their needs and thoughts and recounting their activities in Spanish. Reading and supplementary authentic materials will be selected to keep pace with students' interests and ability. There will continue to be a focus on the cultures of Spanish speaking people as well. Note: Although we will be covering the same material that will be covered in Spanish 9H, the pace of this course is a bit slower, in that students who enter it have come from only one previous year of Spanish study in the HS and did not have the full three year sequence of Spanish in Middle School.

Spanish IIH Course Catalog Video.webm

Spanish III H

SPANISH III H 430

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish II H or Spanish 9 H

¡Aquí se habla espanol! A study of culture, idioms, grammar and vocabulary will be stressed through speaking, listening, reading and writing exercises within the parameters of thematic context. Continued proficiency in the language is developed through the use of authentic materials, music, Spanish language movies and video clips and simulated practical situations. A variety of projects are introduced that are contextually and culturally relevant and that involve critical thinking.

Spanish IIIH Course Catalog Video.webm

Spanish IV H

SPANISH IV H 440

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish III H

This course is designed for the student of Spanish who has mastered the basics. Students will study the literature, art, music and culture of Spanish speaking people with a major emphasis on Latin American cultures. Poetry, prose, music, films, video clips and articles from Spanish magazines, newspapers and websites will be used and discussed. This upper level language course emphasizes developing fluency in the language through daily conversations, written exercises, essays, projects and simulations. The course is conducted in Spanish. A variety of projects are introduced that are contextually and culturally relevant and that involve critical thinking.

Spanish IVH - C - Google Slides.webm

Spanish V H

SPANISH V H 450

Full year, 1 credit

Recommended Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish IV H and recommendation of the World Language Teacher.

This advanced course is intended for those students who would like to continue their pursuit of Spanish, but feel that the curriculum of the Spanish AP course is too rigorous for them. In Spanish VH students will be encouraged to continue to enhance their proficiency in all skill areas (speaking, listening, reading, writing and culture) with special emphasis on conversation. Through a communicatively based text and coordinating video series, students will be presented a variety of meaningful contexts in which to learn. Topics include human nature, psychology, reality vs. fantasy, and art.

AP Spanish Language

AP SPANISH LANGUAGE 455

Full year, 1 credit

Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in Spanish IV H and and recommendation of the World Language Teacher

This course is intended for students who already have an advanced knowledge of the language and culture of Spanish speaking peoples and who have attained considerable proficiency in listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Emphasis is on the use of Spanish for active communication, and has the following objectives: a) Ability to comprehend formal and informal spoken Spanish in a variety of contexts; b) Acquisition of vocabulary and a grasp of structure to allow the accurate reading of newspaper and magazine articles as well as of modern Hispanic literature; c) Ability to express ideas orally and in writing with reasonable accuracy and fluency. The work is designed to prepare students for the AP exam at the end of the year.

AP Spanish Language and Culture Course - AP Central.webm

Mandarin Chinese

Mandarin Chinese I

MANDARIN CHINESE I 417

Full year, 1 credit

Mandarin Chinese I, offered in cooperation with Orange-Ulster BOCES, is an introductory level course in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese that aims to develop foundational understandings. Students will be introduced to a wide array of vocabulary, pronunciation skills, and conversational skills. An interactive and technology-rich approach will be used to build students’ confidence and skill in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will learn about topics including self-introduction, family members, hobbies, and activities. Students will also learn about the culture, history, and geography of China through their language-based studies.

Textbook: Wu, Wei-ling, and Hai-lan Tsai. Far East Chinese for Youth Level 1 Textbook. Revised Edition ed., The Far East Book Co., Ltd. ISBN: 978-9576124945

* For the school year 2022-23, Mandarin Chinese I and II at Bronxville High School will be taught in a multi-level setting.

Mandarin Chinese II

MANDARIN CHINESE II 423

Full year, 1 credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Mandarin I

Mandarin Chinese II, offered in cooperation with Orange-Ulster BOCES, is an introductory level course in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese that aims to develop broader understandings. Students will continue their advancement in their vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational skills. Students will deepen their understanding of Mandarin Chinese through discussions on various topics such as leisure/socializing, the neighborhood and transportation, as well as the physical environment. Students will also learn about the culture, history, and geography of China through their language-based studies.

Textbook: Wu, Wei-ling, and Hai-lan Tsai. Far East Chinese for Youth Level 1 Textbook. Revised Edition ed., The Far East Book Co., Ltd. ISBN: 978-9576124945

* For the school year 2022-23, Mandarin Chinese I and II at Bronxville High School will be taught in a multi-level setting.

Mandarin Chinese III

Mandarin Chinese III Course Description

Full year, 1 credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Mandarin II

Mandarin Chinese III, offered in cooperation with Orange-Ulster BOCES, is an intermediate level course in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese that aims to develop an increasingly broad and useful understanding of Mandarin Chinese. Students will continue to widen their array of vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational skills. Students will deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, history, and geography through project-based learning. This course is designed for students to continue their advancements in Mandarin Chinese language in social settings on topics such as shopping, dining and traveling.

Textbook: Wu, Wei-ling, and Hai-lan Tsai. Far East Chinese for Youth Level 2 Textbook. Revised Edition ed., The Far East Book Co., Ltd. ISBN: 978-9576127755

* For the school year 2022-23, Mandarin Chinese III and IV at Bronxville High School will be taught in a multi-level setting.

Mandarin Chinese IV

Mandarin Chinese IV Course Description

Full year, 1 credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Mandarin III

Mandarin Chinese IV, offered in cooperation with Orange-Ulster BOCES, is an intermediate level course that aims to enhance the student’s interpretive, interpersonal and presentation communication skills in Mandarin Chinese. Students will continue to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture through a wide variety of topics including food and travel. Students will continue to advance in their Mandarin Chinese language proficiency through a wide variety of task-based and project-based learning organized by themes.

Textbook: Wu, Wei-ling, and Hai-lan Tsai. Far East Chinese for Youth Level 2 Textbook. Revised Edition ed., The Far East Book Co., Ltd. ISBN: 978-9576127755

* For the school year 2022-23, Mandarin Chinese III and IV at Bronxville High School will be taught in a multi-level setting.

Philosophy

PHILOSOPHY

Semester, 0.5 Credit

Open to all Grades

I think, therefore I am! Plato, Aristotle, Confucius, Descarte - these are some of the great thinkers who have changed our world. This course will explore the contributions of some of the greatest minds through the centuries and how their innovative thoughts have revolutionized our understanding of the world and changed the course of history. In the course, students will also use these great thinkers as a models to design strategies to improve their own thinking. (This course will be taught in English)

Philosophy.mp4

Mythology

MYTHOLOGY

Semester, 0.5 Credit

Open to all Grades

This course features a literary tapestry of the most interesting tales of mythology. Students will explore how myths can be used as a way of interpreting life experiences across the span of time and across various cultures. In addition, students will examine the enduring relevance of these stories in music, art, and drama through the centuries. Students will produce projects that express their understanding and personal interpretations of the myths. These will include an original work of art inspired by the study of myth and a journal which chronicles the life of a myth throughout the centuries. (This course will be taught in English)

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