Historical events and cultural phenomena are discussed in the context of the works read. Students completing this sequence of courses by the end of their junior year may work with the faculty in designing a further level of advanced study, which may include the Advanced Placement Literature exam. These courses are conducted in French. The objective of these introductory courses is to help students attain a fundamental degree of proficiency in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Basic grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation are presented through a thematic approach designed to engage the students in communication.
Students also consider the representative cultures and how they relate to their own.
Class participation is emphasized through drills and exercises to strengthen students' understanding of and proficiency in fundamental Spanish. Spanish II continues the thematic approach of Spanish I and presents more complex structures while expanding the students' vocabulary. These courses are designed to improve the reading and speaking of Spanish. A variety of short stories and readings are introduced to enhance reading comprehension and vocabulary, while giving practice in writing and conversation. The more complex grammatical structures and vocabulary are reviewed, but the main objective is to enable students to use Spanish for communication and self-expression.