1. I am introvert! Can I still take a language?

• ABSOLUTELY! Keep in mind that speaking is crucial when learning a language, but you will rarely be asked to make long presentations in front of the whole class. You may at times be called on individually to share an answer or present with a partner/group.

2. Spanish 1 is a HS courses. How rigorous is it? 

• Spanish 1 is equivalent in pace and sequence to the courses offered at Vandegrift HS. At the middle school level, often times it is as rigorous or more rigorous than core courses. But...it is  also FUN! 

3. A friend or relative speaks the language. Can he/she help me?

• Friends or relatives may quiz you on vocab words or grammar topics, but they MAY NOT construct sentences for you. Please talk to your teacher before seeking help from any outside resource.

4. Do we learn a certain "type" of Spanish at CRMS?

• We learn neutral dialects that can be understood in any country. In Spanish, we do learn both "vosotros" and "ustedes" forms and discuss their differences.  

5. Will we learn grammar?

• We do still cover grammar and verb conjugations, and they may be included in some learning checks. HOWEVER...communication is our primary focus! During speaking and writing tasks, you will be graded holistically based on message, creative use of the language, and level of detail. You will be provided with district rubrics.

6. Is there assigned homework in this course?

• Under normal circumstances, there are homework assignments or study tasks a few nights a week for ~15 minutes. 

7. If I sign up a tutorial and miss it, what can I do?

• Email or send a Remind message to your teacher as soon as you learn that you will not be able to attend. You may reschedule the tutorial only one time. 

8. I would like a copy of a textbook. How can I get one?

• Although our curriculum follows the content of textbooks, we do not frequently use these textbooks during instruction. Instead, you will be hearing native speakers, reading authentic sources, and practicing the language through games, songs, and rhymes. If you would like a copy of the textbook, please let your teacher know so he can get one checked out to you. 

9. What happens after I complete level I?

• Next year, you may take On Level or Advanced Spanish II. The following year, you may complete On Level or Advanced Spanish III. Levels IV and V are AP or IB classes, and you have the opportunity to earn credit. Advanced, AP, and IB Spanish classes are weighted at the HS level. You need a minimum of 2 consecutive years of language study in order to graduate, but many students continue beyond level II. There may also language requirements at the university level.