Global Language

The Global Language Curriculum Mission

We envision a future in which students live, work and thrive as global citizens in an interdependent world. Students will embrace learning as a life-long endeavor, engage in self-reflection and cultivate respect for differing viewpoints. As informed individuals they will participate actively in local, national and global communities.

A Proficiency-Based Curriculum, The Upper Arlington’s nationally recognized program follows the proficiency model of the American Council of Teachers of Foreign Languages. A proficiency-based global language curriculum establishes specific performance levels of language achievement. Student assessment and placement are based on actual language proficiency. Students should aim to demonstrate proficiency in the three modes of communication: Interpersonal, Interpretive, Presentational. These modes incorporate the skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

For Students Enrolling in Global Language, Students enrolled in all global language courses should demonstrate proficiency in the three areas of communication at a minimum holistic score of “6” (on a scale from one to nine). Those who do not demonstrate proficiency will receive credit for their present language course as long as they receive a passing grade. However, because the proficiency score is a predictor of success in the next level, students who do not demonstrate proficiency will be recommended to not advance to the next level.

The Global Language Resource Center, The Global Languages Resource Center (GLRC) is staffed with teachers who serve as mentors to provide additional opportunities for students to practice the language. Teachers in GLRC help students:

• prepare for their performance demonstrations

• edit their written work

• research information

• develop and employ their media skills

• review for tests and quizzes

• improve their study skills

• complete assignments

• develop proficiency in the modes of communication

Novice, Level I ASL, French, German and Spanish

1 credit — Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

The foundation for language study begins in the 6th grade at which point students can opt to enroll in French, German or Spanish. They can continue with the same language for up to 7 years over the course of their 6-12 experience. Four Global Languages are offered at Upper Arlington High School: French, German, Spanish and American Sign Language.

At the Novice Level, emphasis is on learners becoming proficient in the three modes of communication at a basic level. Students are introduced to high-frequency vocabulary and grammatical structures and gradually build a foundation in understanding and communicating in the target language. Students begin to create with the language, communicate with other students about their personal interests and activities. Fundamental grammar concepts are introduced at this level to help students develop insight into the nature of language and to support effective communication. Students learn strategies to facilitate and enhance their language acquisition and help them become independent learners.

Novice German will be offered only in a blended format. The content for this course will be delivered both in person and in online modules. Three days a week students will meet as a class with the teacher; on the other two days students will be assigned to a study hall. Students will use this time in study hall to either work through part of the content online or to meet with the teacher to receive individualized help. The content and assessments are the same as in a traditional German classroom.

Beginning Intermediate, Level II - ASL, French, German and Spanish

1 credit — Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

(1 period per day for 1 year)

At the Intermediate Level, learners continue to develop proficiency in the three modes of communication. They communicate, create, and begin to problem - solve in the target language. Using a wide variety of materials, students deepen and broaden their treatment of personal and cultural topics. Interaction with increasingly sophisticated content requires learners to expand the range of their vocabulary as well as their knowledge of grammatical structures. At this level, learners improve their fluency and express themselves with more flexibility, detail and accuracy. Intermediate learners begin to think more critically about the world around them and develop greater insight into the practices, products, and perspectives of other cultures. As they continue to learn and refine strategies to facilitate and enhance their language acquisition, they become more independent learners.

Intermediate, Mid Level III - French, German and Spanish

1 credit — Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

(1 period per day for 1 year)

At the Intermediate Level, learners continue to develop proficiency in the three modes of communication. They communicate, create, and begin to problem solve in the target language. Using a wide variety of materials, students deepen and broaden their treatment of personal and cultural topics. Interaction with increasingly sophisticated content requires learners to expand the range of their vocabulary as well as their knowledge of grammatical structures. At this level, learners improve their fluency and express themselves with more flexibility, detail and accuracy. Intermediate learners begin to think more critically about the world around them and develop greater insight into the practices, products, and perspectives of other cultures. As they continue to learn and refine strategies to facilitate and enhance their language acquisition, they become more independent learners.

Intermediate High, Level IV - French, German and Spanish Honors/ UA IB-Yr 1 SL & HL/Pre-AP

French Fee: TBA

1 credit — Grades 11, 12

(1 period per day for 1 year)

Intermediate High learners use their language skills to gain access to new bodies of knowledge. Learners at this level deepen and expand their comprehension and refine their communication skills. An ever-widening vocabulary base and greater control over more complex structures enable students to engage critically with topics of global importance. As their cultural knowledge increases, they are able to respond and interact with a higher degree of social and cultural appropriateness. The learners interests, goals, and self-direction become increasingly important: They enhance the language experience and encourage independent life-long learning.

For those enrolled as IB Diploma Students

In addition, students learn specific strategies through specialized materials to pre-pare for the IB standard level and AP exams as well as other college placement tests. In these courses, the individual student’s motivation and dedication become essential in achieving success and making the transition to college level language study.

All students enrolled in IB Courses are required to take all IB Internal and External assessments. In October of the final year of the course, students will be required to pay IB fees which cover the cost of registration with the IBO, international curriculum and examination development, Internal and External assessments, and examination fees. For more on the cost of the IB program, see here.

ASL Special Topics

1/2 credit — Grades 11, 12

(1 period per day for 1 semester)

Prerequisites: ASL I and ASL II

This hands-on course will build off of student’s foundational skills in American Sign Language and give students an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the language by looking at it through the lens of linguistic analysis, conceptual understanding, and various discourse styles. Students will engage in project-based performances/presentations, with regards to ASL poetry, storytelling and visual communication.