Course Description - Spanish III

This course is designed for intermediate level learners of the Spanish language and culture continue providing a solid foundation in the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, along with cultural awareness. In accordance with ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines, the primary objective of this class is to help you develop the necessary skills to communicate proficiently in Spanish and to function effectively within Spanish-speaking cultures in real-life situations.

This is the third course in the traditional 3-year sequence of Spanish. The class implements the principles of the Universal Design for Learning in order for all students to have equitable opportunities to learn, using flexible approaches that can be customized for individual student needs. To acquire proficiency in communication and mastery of form, we have combined the standards of Checkpoint A and Checkpoint B of the NYS MLC and the NYS World Language Standards (2021).

Differentiated instruction is used to meet the needs of all in a student-centered environment, and to support students in achieving the learning outcomes. Authentic listening and reading materials from the Spanish-speaking world are integrated into instruction, such as: online sources, newspapers, magazines, music, film, and various realia. Students will engage in conversations, ask and answer questions, describe objects, give directions, and convey feelings and opinions to express personal interests and meet social needs in the target language.

At this level, students continue to develop the four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing, while expanding their knowledge of vocabulary and syntax in a variety of personal and academic contexts. This course is aligned with ACTFL performance descriptors that focus on interpretive, interpersonal and presentational communication in Spanish.

In every unit of study students will continue to acquire new vocabulary, improve critical thinking and make intercultural connections in the target language. In addition, instruction will integrate the five goal areas of the ACTFL) National World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages, as follows: Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons and Communities. Students’ proficiency and performance are evaluated by a combination of thematic exams, performance-based assessments (IPA), portfolios, oral presentations and compositions.