Seventh Grade Spanish: Course Description
Ms. Kim Allen

St. Luke’s School, Room 205, September, 2005

AN INTRODUCTION: This is the second year of beginning Spanish studies, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with you on a language that I love. Spanish is a beautiful idiom, and the cultures of the people who speak it are rich and fascinating. Although our concentration will be on helping you to prepare for more advanced studies in high school, I also hope to instill you with a love of these cultures and of the Spanish language. ¡Vamos a divertirnos!
We will begin with a review of the grammar and vocabulary you studied last year, and then we will continue in your textbook. There will be a number of small projects throughout the year as well.

SPECIAL FOCUS: Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. It’s also an important language in the United States. In the state of New York, over 15% of the population is of Hispanic or Latino background – and twice that in California. This year, you’ll be asked to pay special attention to the Spanish culture that is around you in New York City and in this country. We’ll attempt to get to know the “Latinos” that contribute to the richness of American culture.

DAILY HOMEWORK: ne of the most important things about studying a foreign language is daily practice. Not only should you pay attention in class and use the language as much as possible, you should also do your homework carefully. One thing builds upon another, and good homework habits will make a tremendous difference (it’s much like math class, in which learning a new skill depends on knowing the one from before).

MATERIALS:
1. Bring your textbook every day (please).
2. You may want to carry an English/Spanish dictionary with you (optional).
3. Recommended: index cards to make flash cards.
4. Put together a . . .SPANISH BINDER, a three-ring notebook, divided like this:
--- Notes and Homework (in order studied)
--- Vocabulary and Expressions
--- Tests, Quizzes, Projects (signed by parents)
It really makes a difference if you’re organized.

GRADES:

1. 40 % Tests 3. 20 % Homework
2. 20 % Quizzes 4. 20 % Projects and Participation in Daily Work

Try, Try, Try! Practice everything. Try. Do all your homework. Believe me: effort matters! Ask for explanations and moral support. Daily work is the key to success in language learning.

ASSIGNMENTS AND PARENT NOTIFICATION:
The same procedures will be followed as in social studies. Be sure to turn in your work on time. Feel free to see me for help. I really am on your team. ¡Trabajemos juntos!