The World Language Department of Villa Maria recognizes the need for all students to be able to communicate with the global community and meet the challenges of the 21st century. Students must study at least 3 consecutive years of one language (French, Latin, or Spanish); although most students choose to continue their language studies beyond this requirement. The study of a second world language is also available as an elective.
Language Acquisition
The course of study provides the opportunity to meet all aspects of language learning, with an emphasis on communication: vocabulary development, grammatical structure, reading and listening comprehension, civilization and culture, literature, composition, and (for the modern world languages) oral proficiency in the target language. The learning environment encourages risk-taking and problem-solving skills.
Cultural Understanding
The culture-centered curriculum encourages an appreciation for diversity, and promotes empathy toward and an understanding of foreign peoples and cultures. Students gain perspective on other cultures so that they may better understand their own.
Authentic Experiences
Students are encouraged to apply their language skills in the classroom setting and beyond. Language is studied in context via authentic, real-life resources, and meaningful experiences so that students become better informed citizens of the world. Opportunities for students to travel and practice the language and culture are provided both locally and abroad.
Language Clubs
The French, Latin, and Spanish Language Clubs promote excellence in the study of world languages and cultivate an interest in and deeper understanding of the history and culture of countries around the world. Membership in each club is open to all interested students.
Language Honor Societies
Villa Maria offers a number of honor societies that recognize overall academic achievement in world languages.
- French Honor Society. The French Honor Society promotes excellence in the study of French, and cultivates interest in the history and culture of French-speaking countries.
- Latin Honor Society. The Latin Honor Society deepens the students’ understanding of the Latin Language and the Roman Civilization that is the foundation of our own.
- Spanish Honor Society. The Spanish Honor Society promotes excellence in the study of the Spanish language and encourages interest in the culture and history of Spain and Latin America.
World Language Department Faculty
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Mrs. Dianne Goddard
Chair
Ext. 1410
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Ms. Sarah Carroll
Ext. 1136
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Ms. Nicole Gargiulo
Ext. 1140
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Mrs. Cristina McLachlan
Ext. 1409
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Ms. Belen Medina-Mendoza
Ext. 1103
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Ms. Katlyn Yost
Ext. 1312
Course Sequence
| GRADE 9 | GRADE 10 | GRADE 11 | GRADE 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish 1 | Spanish 2 | Spanish 3 (CP, H) | Spanish 4 (CP, H) Spanish 5 (H) Ap Spanish Language |
| French 1 | French 2 | French 3 (CP, H) | French 4 (H) French 5 (H) Ap French Language & Culture |
| Latin 1 | Latin 2 | Latin 3 (H) | Latin 4 (H) Ap Latin Language |