Curriculum
World language instruction is currently offered sequentially in the following languages; French, Italian, Latin, Mandarin and Spanish. Central students must successfully complete a minimum of two years of the same language while at Central and are encouraged to continue through a 3rd, 4th or 5th year. Most languages offer “honors” sections that require the permission of the department chair and the recommendation of previous language teachers.
A general placement test will be given to all entering students with previous experience in French, Spanish, and Chinese who wish to be assigned to Level 1B, Level 2, or higher. The test will be based on the instructional systems and courses of study used at Central. Students with experience in other languages will be tested in individual interviews at Central.
The World Language Program’s primary goal is to help students develop proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing the target language. Every effort is made to present the subject material in “real life” situations. Students also develop an appreciation of the diverse cultures for the countries whose languages they are learning. Various methods are used for assessment.
World Language 1
In level 1 classes, students learn to listen, speak, read and write the target language. They engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions. They interpret written and spoken language and write on a variety of topics. Students gain an understanding of the relationship between the practices and perspectives of the culture studied.
World Language 2
In level 2 classes, students continue to improve their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the world language. Level 2 assumes that the student has mastered all the skills and knowledge of level 1. Throughout the 2nd year of a language, students increase their vocabulary, learn advanced grammar, and develop the ability to respond in various ways to literary works on an appropriate reading level, and write in the target language with increasing accuracy. They continue to develop their knowledge and appreciation of the specific culture by studying the traditions and customs of the people.
World Language 3
In level 3, students become increasingly more able to communicate a variety of messages for more extended periods of time, and with greater accuracy. They are able to comprehend the language more readily when spoken to by a native speaker. Students continue to learn the vocabulary and more advanced grammatical structures necessary to express themselves clearly. They read various literary passages, articles pertaining to world issues, and other forms of written texts. They become more comfortable with reading unfamiliar material. They are expected to write with greater accuracy on a variety of topics. Students gain a more complete understanding of the culture.
World Language 4
This course is a continuation of level III emphasizing proficiency in speaking and writing at a more advanced level, while continuing skill development in listening and reading. It includes the study of syntax, vocabulary, idioms, style, grammatical structures, and culture. Grammar and themed vocabulary pertaining to cultural topics will enable the student to prepare and present reports, conversations, and projects of greater length and more advanced quality than in the previous course.
World Language 5
This course is a continuation of level IV. There is an emphasis on greater application of advanced skills in the listening, speaking, reading and writing of the world language. Selected examples of literature and other authentic readings are studied to increase awareness in vocabulary and grammar in context and to promote analytical skills in the world language.