Spanish I is a broad based course designed to introduce the student to all aspects of foreign language study. Grammar, reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills are included. Cultural information is provided and taught throughout the duration of the course. Students will do research on various cultural topics. This is achieved by groups, partners and individual practice dependent on the subject. Emphasis is placed on conversation, vocabulary and correct usage of the language. Correct pronunciation and oral proficiency are primary goals. This requires a daily emphasis on listening and speaking. The classroom experience will provide an appreciation and development of cultural awareness through various readings, media resources and authentic materials. 

Students who wish to earn high school credit must take the spring semester of this course as well. I will write and validate a credit letter for you to have on record. Please note that the fall semester is only fifteen weeks, but the spring semester is seventeen weeks. The cost is the same for each semester.

Course Objectives: 
Communication: Students will communicate in Spanish. a) Apply the use of verbs in the present, present progressive, and past. b) Students will compare and contrast. c) Students will give their viewpoints on a variety of every-day topics.

Cultures: Students will gain knowledge and understanding of Spanish culture. a) Students will investigate the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. b) Students will demonstrate an understanding of here and there. 

Connections: Students will connect with other disciplines and acquire information. a) Students will discuss the significant contributions of Hispanic people and cultures. b) Identify principal cities and geographical features of the Spanish-speaking world. 

Comparisons: Students will develop insight into the nature of language and culture. a) Students will compare and contrast various aspects of the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. b) Students will compare Spanish grammar to English grammar. 

Communities: Students will participate in multilingual communities at home and around the world. a) Students will communicate on a personal level with speakers of the language in the community such as restaurants, stores, community centers etc…