Foreign language courses are an excellent choice for all students, especially those who are college-bound. Many colleges and universities have both entrance and graduation (exit) requirements that include the study of a single foreign language. Most recommend at least two levels of the same language in high school prior to admission, and depending on a student’s major, may require additional years of study at the college level. By completing Spanish Levels I–IV, students build a strong foundation that can help them meet or exceed these expectations.
The study of Spanish also plays a vital role in preparing students to become global citizens—individuals who are aware of and engaged with the world beyond their own communities. Learning another language promotes cultural understanding, empathy, and communication skills that are essential in today’s interconnected world.
Students also have the opportunity to earn the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy, an official recognition of proficiency in English and another language. Earning the Seal of Biliteracy is a valuable accomplishment that demonstrates a student’s dedication to language learning and can enhance college, scholarship, and career opportunities.
The Seal of Biliteracy honors students who’ve demonstrated proficiency in both English and another language. We’re proud of the Benton students who have worked hard, proven their Spanish skills, earned this recognition, and opened new doors for their future.
Check out the Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs) page to learn more about the
Credit Hours: 1
Grade Level: 9-12
Students in Spanish I will develop foundational skills in Spanish vocabulary, grammar, and conversation. The course emphasizes the four key areas of language learning—speaking, listening, reading, and writing—through a variety of engaging classroom activities such as text-based lessons, listening exercises with native speakers, role-playing, and both written and oral assessments. In addition to language acquisition, students will explore the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, examining both similarities and differences between Hispanic cultures and their own. Throughout the course, an emphasis is placed on fostering respect for cultural diversity within our school community and the global society.
Credit Hours: 1
Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: Spanish I
Spanish II continues the development of proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural understanding. Students will expand their vocabulary and learn more complex grammar skills, including positive and negative commands and later a form of the past tense in Spanish. Students will engage in creative projects, such as producing a cooking video that demonstrates the use of commands and food-related vocabulary. In addition, students will explore Hispanic culture through reading a Spanish-language novel that provides authentic cultural perspectives and real-world language use.
Credit Hours: 1
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: Spanish II
This class is a continuation of the Spanish I and Spanish II sequence of classes. In Spanish III, a higher level of proficiency in all aspects of the language is developed, with particular emphasis placed on oral fluency. More emphasis is placed on using the Spanish language in class. Students learn to discuss events that happened in the past—both recent experiences and childhood memories—and study vocabulary and structures related to natural disasters, accidents, and the human body. Cultural connections are explored through the reading of a Spanish novel that takes place in Ecuador or has roots in El Salvador.
Credit Hours: 1
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: Spanish III
Spanish IV continues the development of higher-level proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural understanding. Communication in Spanish whenever possible is strongly encouraged. Students will refine their use of complex grammatical structures, expand their vocabulary, and engage in meaningful discussions and presentations entirely in Spanish. In addition, students will read a Spanish-language novel that provides authentic cultural perspectives and real-world language use. The capstone experience of the course is the opportunity for students to earn the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy, demonstrating proficiency in both English and Spanish.
Credit Hours: .5
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Spanish IV
Spanish V is an independent, one-quarter course designed for students who wish to continue refining their Spanish skills in preparation for college-level study or the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy. Students will strengthen their proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through individualized projects, advanced readings, and authentic cultural materials. Emphasis is placed on maintaining and advancing fluency, accuracy, and confidence in real-world communication. Students must have teacher and administrator approval to take this course.