World Languages
-
BackForwardPauseCaption -
world language
The World Language Department aims to prepare our students for the greater world through instruction of French and Spanish. Classes are both language instruction and a study of cultural practices and traditions in the Spanish speaking and Francophone countries. Starting as early as Prek-3 and continuing through their final 7th grade year, students will have the opportunity to learn phrases, vocabulary, and basic conversation, through songs, games, and activities. We hope to inspire a love of language and culture that will give them a greater understanding and curiosity about our world!
-
frenchOur French program helps students fall in love with learning a new language. The course teaches young learners the basics of French, and with a strong emphasis on oral participation, it builds self-confidence, which will benefit each student on their educational journey. The program also includes fun activities that introduce students to French culture, so they can understand and appreciate the world around them. By learning French, students are building a strong foundation for their future language skills.
Early Childhood: PK3-Kindergarten
Recognizing that our younger students are eager learners, the early childhood French program aims at creating enthusiasm in each student for speaking a new language. With participation strongly encouraged every week, the children develop a confidence that translates into a happy experience. During class, the students learn through different media such as traditional French songs, childhood literature, videos, and hands-on activities.
Lower school: 1st-3rd Grade
In lower school, students are introduced to the basics of the French language. They learn high frequency vocabulary and expressions. Older students begin making sentences, are encouraged to participate orally, and become confident sounding out words. To deepen students’ interest and tap into their natural curiosity, French culture is made an important component of the program. Students discover what makes France unique and also discover the many francophone countries of the world.
Middle School Elective
HNJ offers various electives to middle school students. Our French elective is a condensed, fast-paced class encompassing the acquisition of basic French vocabulary and expressions, while encouraging students to reflect on the richness of France’s history and the uniqueness of French culture. To facilitate this endeavor, students discover French cinematography and immerse themselves in gastronomy with hands-on cooking of select French delicacies.
-
Spanish
Spanish is offered from 4th to 7th grade, with classes every other day throughout the academic year. Instruction includes conversation, grammar, geography, and cultural traditions. Hispanic Heritage Month, Day of the Dead, and the winter holiday season are especially exciting times of the year.
4th-5th: Students study Spanish greetings and introductions, useful classroom phrases, and basic grammar. They spend time studying the 21 Spanish speaking countries with a look at some of their traditions and holidays. Students perform short dialogues, play games to practice vocab and grammar, and complete short projects.
6th-7th: Classes are designed to prepare students for high school Spanish with study of regular and irregular verbs, continued conversation practice, and more advanced grammar. Projects include building ofrendas for Day of the Dead, designing a food truck, and country histories.
