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World Languages > Program Philosophy
Program Philosophy
World language study should be available to all students since
it contributes to positive self-esteem, focuses on individual
strengths, and accommodates a variety of learning styles. In
addition, world language study enhances the integration of
basic skills with higher order thinking skills and creativity.
Students develop broader knowledge of and facility in their
native language and tend to increase their verbal performance.
The World Language program
promotes a synthesis of students’ educational experiences as an
interdisciplinary medium. Instructional activities connect a
broad range of academic and extracurricular areas in the liberal
arts, fine arts, practical arts, the social sciences, the
natural and physical sciences, mathematics, modern technology
and career awareness.
A primary emphasis in the
teaching of a world language is proficiency, a concept that
focuses on the development of functional ability in the
language. A proficiency approach implies that teachers help
students perceive and use the world language to accomplish a
specific communicative purpose. Thus, the aim of proficiency is
to develop what students can do in the language and to what
degree they can do it.
World language study develops the
qualities of humanity and friendship, which foster global
understanding. Increased multilingual communication among the
world communities is crucial for the socioeconomic and political
survival of all nations. In addition to the language skills,
culture is an integral part of the curriculum, heightening
students’ sensitivity and appreciation for diverse groups of
people, environments and customs. World language study
stimulates introspection, intellectual curiosity, and a joy of
learning.
The World Language program must
educate students to be equipped linguistically and culturally to
communicate in a pluralistic American society as well as abroad.
Students should become proficient in a minimum of one language
other than English by the end of the high school experience.
Contact:
Deborah Espitia, Coordinator of World Languages and ESOL
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