Languages

Chinese

The Chinese department offers a two-track program, which includes Academic Track and Neo-Native Track. Students are placed in track programs appropriate to their language backgrounds and needs. We also offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Chinese courses. IB courses offered in the department include Language B (as a Foreign Language) offerings: Language Ab Initio; Language B – Standard and Higher Level; Language A2 – Standard and Higher Level; and Language A1 – Standard and Higher Level (as a Neo-Native language). The program design is intended to better serve the diverse needs of our students. Evaluation and assessment of the program is ongoing, and adjustments may be made as necessary. Students who enroll in the Chinese program late and consequently are behind the program, but wish to study IB Chinese in the future, must take extra study and a skip level test. This must be done on approval from a Chinese teacher and the Chinese Program Principal. Each year, the High School Chinese program also integrates China Studies cultural activities into our curriculum to enrich student exposure to aspects of Chinese Culture that are not taught in our regular program. Local experts present these lessons with assistance from Chinese teachers. Lessons may include: Chinese kite making, brush painting, ethnic dance, erhu, cross talk, opera singing, etc. The Academic Track is designed for students to learn the skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening in the Chinese language. The Neo-Native Track is designed for students with a strong background in Chinese language and culture. The focus of this track is on reading and writing while listening and speaking skills are enhanced. Chinese IB courses are offered to students who choose to enroll in the IB program for certificate or for full diploma. Course offering is subject to student enrollment.

French

The French curriculum is designed to give students the tools to effectively use French as a means of communication in very practical situations of daily life, whilst providing a solid foundation in the grammar of the language. It introduces students to French and Francophone cultures thus increasing their motivation to learn the language. The four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking are emphasized equally.

Spanish

The Spanish section of the Foreign Language Department offers three different programs of study: a regular program for non-IB students, the Accelerated program and the Ab Initio program for IB students. Non-IB students are welcomed to initiate their language study whenever they wish. For example, seniors could register for Spanish One. Since August 2003, grade nine students can enroll in the Language B program at standard level* since they have now the option to complete the program in only four years. A Freshman has the opportunity to sign up for the Ab Initio program, then as a Junior transfer in the Language B Program. Needless to say that is a very ambitious undertaking and students are asked to talk to their counselor before signing up.

* A student wanting to take the course at higher level will need a special permission from the Spanish teacher after two years of study, i.e. before starting his junior year.