Class descriptions

Course Title: French 1   With an emphasis on listening and speaking, the beginning language course provides students with a foundation of listening and speaking skills. Writing and reading of words and simple phrases/passages in the language are taught along with vocabulary and grammar. Students acquire a general understanding of the culture of the target language countries and their people. A grade of a C or better is highly recommended for success at the next level.

Course Title: English 8D   English 8D continues to build students’ skills in writing and reading with an increased focus on nonfiction. Writing instruction focuses on academic writing, which includes nonfiction narrative, informative essay, explanatory essay, argumentative essay, and text-dependent analysis. Ongoing instruction in standard English conventions parallels the writing assignments, emphasizing practical application of these skills. Reading instruction focuses on vocabulary development and building comprehension and close reading skills. Each unit in reading is designed with a gradual release approach, starting with whole-group instruction, moving toward small-group learning, and concluding with students independently reading and applying reading strategies. Weekly vocabulary instruction incorporates the study of Greek and Latin roots. Eighth Grade Nebraska State Language Arts Standards are assessed through coursework and the NeSA-ELA. Placement is based on teacher recommendation and student performance.

Course Title: World Language 7   With an emphasis on listening, speaking, and culture, this one-quarter class gives students an overview of French culture and language, and gives those who elect to take French 1 in eighth grade a head start on learning.