6 - 8 Spanish
Recognizing the importance of second language acquisition, Gateway teaches Spanish at every grade beginning in first grade. The Spanish curriculum becomes more complex each year, and Gateway students enter middle school with a solid foundation in the language. Sixth graders attend Spanish class three times a week, and seventh and eighth graders attend four times a week. Gateway students graduate from eighth grade prepared for Spanish II or III in ninth grade.
Spanish Curriculum
Gateway’s middle school Spanish program builds upon the foundation of first through fifth grade learning. Our Spanish specialist uses two high school curriculums that are middle school friendly, while being comprehensive, and incorporating full scale language. Students build proficiency in grammar and vocabulary, while also exploring the geography and cultures of Spanish-speaking countries.
The curriculum is further supplemented with enrichment projects such as:
- Spanish Language Music
- Cultural Project Research
- Video-making
- Guided Independent Writing
- Spanish Games
- Mini Novels
- Oral Presentations
- Book Making
- Field Trips
- Pen Pals
- Skits/Drama
Importance of Foreign Language
Research confirms that knowledge of a second language strengthens first-language skills, and helps students to appreciate the power of words and the many different uses of language. When children hear and experience the sounds and feelings of a foreign language, they develop an ear for all language acquisition. The ability to speak two or more languages generally enhances problem-solving and reasoning skills, the capacity for creative thinking, and the ability to respect and understand other cultures. Second-language learning strengthens the ability to communicate and participate effectively in the workplace and in the global community.
