The grammar and vocabulary content parallels that which is taught in the regular Spanish III class. Instruction is designed specifically to develop fluency in speaking Spanish and to enhance listening comprehension. It is understood, however, that reading and writing activities facilitate the acquisition of communicative competence. Students who successfully complete this course are expected to continue the sequence with Spanish IV Honors. The curriculum is designed to provide a thorough review of previously learned vocabulary and grammar and an in-depth study of complex sentence structure, paying particular attention to Spanish and English contrasts.
Emphasis is placed on reading unedited Spanish.
An important emphasis is placed on the culture and civilization of Spanish-speaking countries, including history, geography, and sociological and psychological differences between cultures and possible reasons for them. Spanish IV is a weighted course and students are accordingly expected to work at a more intense level. The Spanish V student has already attained an advanced level of linguistic skill. This student has studied the history of Spain and has been exposed to the cultural background of many Spanish-speaking countries in previous courses. Therefore, Spanish V is a literature class.