Learning a foreign language should no longer be considered a luxury or enrichment, but a necessity in today’s world. Due to increased and changing technology, we are required to communicate with people of different backgrounds whether it be in the social, political, or economic realm. Students who begin a study of a foreign language in the elementary grades develop vocabulary and pronunciation skills, as well as an understanding for other cultures and their ways of thinking. Sullins Academy elementary students, upon completion of this language sequence are able to comprehend the spoken word, communicate in familiar situations, and demonstrate an open-minded attitude toward a different culture.  Students learn about and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Las Posadas, Day of the Dead, and Cinco de Mayo.  

PRIMARY SCHOOL

Spanish at the preschool and kindergarten level is done as a hands-on approach. It is lively and fun, and follows closely with the curriculum of the program and what the classroom teacher is teaching at a particular time. The focus of this course is to develop vocabulary and pronunciation skills and an understanding of the target cultures through hands on and culturally stimulating ways.  

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FIRST & SECOND GRADE

In first and second grade Spanish, students will continue to develop vocabulary and pronunciation skills and an understanding of the target cultures through hands-on and culturally stimulating ways. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition of a broad vocabulary. The students should develop awareness of Mexico, its location, people, and customs.

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THIRD & FOURTH GRADE

In the middle elementary years, Spanish classes continue to emphasize vocabulary and communication. A few basic grammar concepts are learned and applied. Reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills continue to be developed. Students work in groups to complete a number of projects that help reinforce their growing knowledge. The students should develop an awareness of Central and South American countries, their people, and customs.

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FIFTH GRADE

In upper elementary Spanish classes, the teacher seeks to develop students' vocabulary and pronunciation skills and an understanding of the target cultures. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition of a broad vocabulary and conversational skills. The formation of connections among words (words from the same root, cognates, etc.) is strongly encouraged. Grammar topics are reviewed and continue to be developed. The students should develop an awareness of Spain, its regions, people, and customs.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

In Middle School Spanish classes, students read a variety of short chapter books in Spanish. These books are designed for the beginning learner and help students strengthen their comprehension of written Spanish. Each book is accompanied by vocabulary and grammar lessons that strengthen knowledge of the language while reinforcing reading and listening skills. Culture lessons and speaking practice are also integrated into the lessons with each book. Students are prepared to take Spansih II in high school after completing this course.

An 8th grade section of Spanish II is offered for Honors students. This class continues to strengthen vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, and listening skills in Spanish through the reading of short chapter books. There is a heavier emphasis on grammar and writing in this course. Students who complete this course are well prepared for Spanish III in high school.  

Students in Middle School classes have a unique opportunity to enhance their knoweldge through teaching others in our Study Buddy program. In their 6th grade year, students participate in this program at Sullins by teaching mini lessons to our Junior Kindergarten students. In 7th grade, they have an opportunity to travel to the Creative Learning Center in Bristol to teach mini-lessons there.