Spanish 4

Spanish 4 Course Description: This course aims to help students acquire communications skills at the intermediate-mid level in both oral and written Spanish through the interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational modes. 

Unit 1: Sentir y vivir

Big Ideas: Course Objectives / Content Statement(s) 

The first unit titled "Sentir y Vivir" introduces students to the language and cultural nuances of emotions, relationships, and life experiences. This unit focuses on developing vocabulary related to feelings, states of mind, and interpersonal connections, alongside essential grammatical structures such as the present tense, reflexive verbs, and a review of the preterite and imperfect tenses. Through a combination of cultural readings, listening exercises, and speaking activities, students engage with real-life scenarios that reflect the complexities of relationships and emotional expression in Spanish-speaking cultures. The unit also emphasizes practical application through writing assignments, where students articulate personal experiences, emotions, and social interactions. "Sentir y Vivir" serves as a foundational exploration of how to express and navigate emotions and relationships in Spanish, preparing students for more nuanced communication in the target language.

Unit 2: Vivir en la ciudad

Big Ideas: Course Objectives / Content Statement(s)

The second unit titled "Vivir en la ciudad," delves into the complexities and dynamics of urban life in Spanish-speaking cultures. This unit explores various aspects of city living, including the challenges and opportunities that come with it. It examines the cultural, social, and economic factors that shape life in metropolitan areas, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of urban environments. Through authentic readings, dialogues, and multimedia content, the unit engages students in discussions about city planning, public transportation, and the diverse experiences of urban dwellers. Vocabulary and grammar lessons are integrated to support these themes, focusing on terms related to city life and advanced structures like subjunctive clauses and commands. The unit also emphasizes the importance of civic responsibility and community involvement in urban settings. By the end of this unit, students will have a deeper appreciation of how cities function and the role individuals play within them, all while enhancing their Spanish language skills in practical, real-world contexts.

Unit 3: La influencia de los medios de comunicación y la tecnología

Big Ideas: Course Objectives / Content Statement(s) 

Unit 3 titled Un mundo conectado, explores the theme of global connectivity in the modern world. It examines how technology and communication have transformed the ways people interact and share information across cultures and borders. The unit delves into the impact of social media, the internet, and other digital tools on personal relationships, global awareness, and cultural exchange. It also addresses issues related to digital privacy and the digital divide, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that come with living in a highly connected world. Through various activities and readings, students engage with topics such as the role of technology in shaping identities, the influence of global networks on local cultures, and the implications of being constantly connected in a digital age.

Unit 4: El medio ambiente y las riquezas naturales

Big Ideas: Course Objectives / Content Statement(s)

Unit 4, "Las riquezas naturales," explores the theme of natural resources and their significance. The unit delves into the various types of natural resources, including minerals, water, and forests, and discusses their roles in both the environment and human societies. It highlights the importance of sustainable management to prevent depletion and environmental degradation. Through a combination of readings, dialogues, and exercises, students examine the impact of resource exploitation on different ecosystems and communities. Additionally, the unit encourages reflection on the balance between economic development and environmental conservation, promoting awareness of global challenges related to natural resources.

Textbook:

• Online book Imagina, 5th edition Click here to access VHL Central: Student Guide

Required Materials:

• Charged Chromebook

• Headset (Headphones with microphones): Used to listen to videos, audios and recording oral responses.

• Folder/binder for handouts

• Pens and Highlighters

Grading Breakdown:

• Presentational Writing and Speaking: 30%

• Interpretive Listening and Reading: 30%

• Interpersonal Speaking (Pairs or Groups) and Writing (Letters, Postcards, Emails): 30%

• Homework, Classwork and class participation: 10%

Late Work Policy:

• A 10% penalty will be applied to each assignment submitted after the due date.

• Assignments turned in one week or more after the due date will be eligible for a maximum of half credit.

• No submissions will result in a score of 0.

• Communication is key: If you anticipate any issues meeting a deadline, please reach out to me as soon as possible.

Classroom Rules: DO's and DON'Ts

DO:

• Be seated in your assigned seat with all necessary materials when the bell rings.

• Show respect for everyone, as well as the equipment and furnishings in the classroom.

• Raise your hand to ask or answer questions in Spanish.

• Follow all rules outlined in the student handbook.

DON'T:

• Refrain from using your phone during class. (See page 20 of SHS Student handbook for consequences.)

📵 Phone-Free Zone 📵

To keep our class focused and distraction-free:

1️⃣ Place your phone in your assigned pocket at the start of class.
2️⃣ Keep it there for the entire period.
3️⃣ Pick it up at the end of class.

✅ Let’s protect our learning space and give each other our full attention!

Thank you for your cooperation!

• Avoid wearing earbuds or headphones unless they're needed for a specific activity.

• Do not play games on your Chromebook.

• Do not request to use the bathroom during teacher-led instruction unless it’s an emergency.

Rubrics used for grading: