Modern Languages

In order for students to be international citizens equipped with the essential knowledge to succeed in the 21st century, they must speak multiple languages. The study of Modern Languages aims to develop students’ ability to communicate effectively in another language and encourages students to persevere with their language studies throughout their schooling so that they will be able to communicate with competence when interacting with native speakers. Language is taught in context so that students develop cultural understanding that will enable them to be open and empathetic to other people’s perspectives and therefore interact successfully in the global community.

General Principles for Elementary Language Learning

Our modern language program for the Elementary is based upon a set of principles governing language education. These tenets are anchored in language education research and supported by practice. They are as follows:

• All students can learn and experience success in a second language.
• Students learn in different ways.
• Language acquisition is a lifelong process. For optimum results, students should have the opportunity to engage in a long sequence of study.
• Students acquire proficiency at different rates.
• Students develop the needed skills to be citizens of a global society by learning a second language.
• Students develop some insights into other cultures as well as their own when learning a second language.
• Students are involved in interdisciplinary connections when learning a second language.

Spanish

Beginning in Grade 3, students study Spanish. The emphasis in the program is on communicative skills through active involvement of the students. Grammar, spelling and language structures are also taught but it is done within the context of authentic or real learning situations and for the major part, not taught as isolated skills. Students use games, stories, songs, role-play and drama to enjoy learning the Spanish language. Students also learn about particular cultural aspects such as celebrations, customs and important places and contributions that come from South America or Spain. While the focus is on communicating the language, all four language strands; reading, writing, speaking and listening are integrated and important in the learning activities. Students who remain at AISD the Middle School will have the opportunity to continue in their Spanish studies.

Host Country Studies - Bangla

Valuing our host country, the Elementary School strives for students to learn about and develop an appreciation of Bangladesh through instruction in Bangla, the study of our host country in Host Country Studies and units of inquiry and involvement in Service Learning projects.

Students learn basic Bangla within the context of our Host Culture Studies program. Where possible students are given real life contexts in which to practice their Bangla speaking skills. For example in Grade 5 students learn the language associated with eating out and, for the culminating learning experience, students are taken to a restaurant where they each have to order their own meal. In learning the conventions and vocabulary of Bangla, a communicative approach is used where students interact with the language using games, songs, stories and drama as much as possible.