Maria Downey
I began teaching Spanish at Ramsey High School in 2001, and over the years, have taught all levels from Level 1 to AP. I studied at Williams College, majoring in Spanish, and completed my Masterś in Teaching Spanish from Binghamton University. I am also qualified to teach Mindfulness using the Mindful Schools curriculum. I currently reside in Hawthorne with my husband and son.
Contact: mdowney@ramsey.k12.nj.us
Twitter: @clasedeap
Links:
- Ramsey School District
- Ramsey High School
- Schoology All assignments and resources will be on the class Schoology site.
Courses:
- Spanish IICPE:
Continuation of the mastery of communication in the target language is the aim of the second year of language study. Increased emphasis is placed on extended discourse, guided composition, reading skills, and the development of a broader vocabulary. General knowledge about the target cultures are provided in short cultural readings.
- Spanish AP:
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation + “B” in Language IV Honors, “B” on final exam Teacher Recommendation + “A” in Language IV (CPE), “B” on final exam - 1 year 5 credits Grade 12
As articulated by The College Board, the Level V Honors AP class, conducted entirely in the target language, takes a holistic approach to language proficiency and recognizes the complex interrelatedness of comprehension and comprehensibility, vocabulary usage, language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. Students learn language structures in context and use them to convey meaning. The course also develops students’ awareness of and appreciation of products, practices, and perspectives from the target cultures. Successful completion of this course prepares the student to take the AP examination.