Academics
Departments & Curriculum

Current Year Course Offerings (2024-25)

World Languages

As a doorway to the world, Trinity's World Languages department leads students to a place of global understanding well beyond their everyday experience.

The purpose of Trinity’s World Language department is to cultivate inquisitive learners of language and culture in a diverse and changing world. By creating a language learning environment that encourages cultural understanding, the department also aims to allow students to see their place in the world through the eyes of a variety of world cultures.  Over the course of a student’s language education at Trinity, our teachers strive to develop critical thinking skills that aid in proficiency, collaborative learning, and cultural competence.  A Trinity World Language student is open-minded, reflective, and empathetic toward other cultures, as well as toward their own.  In addition, Trinity works to reinforce skills useful across the curriculum: an understanding of composition, grammar, and an appreciation of the origins of words and language.

With a three-year minimum requirement, our students are able to master many aspects of the language they choose. In addition, they are to speak with far greater understanding of and sensitivity to the world they live in and the people who inhabit it.

CURRENT COURSES OFFERED (2023-24)

  • French 1 - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit
    In this course, students will gain a basic knowledge of the language and culture of the francophone world. Students will develop beginning communication and comprehension skills in the French language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Activities and assessments are varied to help students with many different learning styles. Students learn about modern applications of the French language. All language skill levels can take this class as students will learn basic skills of organization, vocabulary memorization, and the parts of speech, which are applicable for all future language learning and learning in other subjects. Regular study habits and note-taking skills help students to develop basic conversational skills and a foundational vocabulary by the end of the year. Students are expected to develop regular study habits, organizational skills, and active classroom participation through speaking practice in order to help them when learning new languages or continuing study of French in college-level courses.
    Units of Study
    La vie courant
    Qu'est-ce qu'on fait?
    Le monde personnel et familier
    En ville
    Le shopping
    Le temps libre
    Les repas

  • French 2 - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: French 1
    In this course, students will expand their vocabulary, grammar, and knowledge of the culture of France and the francophone world. Students improve their communication and comprehension skills in the French language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing in each lesson. Activities and assessments are varied to help students with many different learning styles. In addition to quizzes and tests, students will learn through creating personal projects in French. To succeed in this class, students should demonstrate basic skills of organization, vocabulary memorization, and parts of speech. Students at the standard level of French 2 will have more review of French level 1 grammar but should be prepared to know basic conjugations and foundational vocabulary by the second semester.
    Units of Study
    Qui suis je?
    Le weekend enfin!
    Bon Appetit
    Loisirs et spectacles!
    Vive le sport!
    Chez nous
    Soyez à la mode!
    Bonnes vacances!

  • French 2 Honors - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-
    In this course, students will expand their vocabulary, grammar, and knowledge of the culture of France and the francophone world. Students improve their communication and comprehension skills in the French language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing in each lesson. Activities and assessments are varied to help students with many different learning styles. In addition to quizzes and tests, students will learn through creating personal projects. To succeed in this class, students should demonstrate basic skills of organization, vocabulary memorization, and parts of speech. Since this is an honors level course, students will be expected to know fundamental grammar and basic vocabulary from French 1 and will be challenged appropriately to their skill level in order to prepare them for French 3 Honors and potentially IB level classes.
    Units of Study
    Qui suis je?
    Le weekend enfin!
    Bon Appetit
    Loisirs et spectacles!
    Vive le sport!
    Chez nous
    Soyez à la mode!
    Bonnes vacances!

  • French 3 - Grades 9-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: French 2
    As in all language courses, French 3 emphasizes language acquisition and development of receptive, productive, and interactive skills. This year we will build on the vocabulary, grammar, and culture you have already learned in levels 1 and 2. To expand your written and spoken French, we will read condensed literary and cultural works by well-known authors, explore provinces in France, write compositions, and do oral presentations. Many activities will allow you to personalize materials and express your ideas and opinions in an enjoyable and educational way. Students in French 3 will speak in French as much as possible. The class aims to develop awareness and appreciation of the different perspectives of people from the Francophone world and to open students to other ways of seeing and knowing things through the study of another language.
    Units of Study
    Introduction/Review
    Descriptions Physiques
    Tâches Domestiques
    Culture: La France, Géographie, provinces, villes
    Les Vives les Vacances
    Les objets directs, indirects, y et en
    Les Voyages
    Lecture (Reading) Les Miserables
    Lecture (Reading) Cyrano de Bergerac
    Chez le Médecin

  • French 3 Honors - Grades 9-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-. Students must take French 2 Honors or French 3 to be considered for this class.
    As in all language courses, French 3 Honors emphasizes language acquisition and development of receptive, productive, and interactive skills. This year we will build on the vocabulary, grammar, and culture you have already learned in levels 1 and 2. To expand your written and spoken French, we will read condensed literary and cultural works by well-known authors, explore provinces in France, write compositions, and do oral presentations. Many activities will allow you to personalize materials and express your ideas and opinions in an enjoyable and educational way. French 3 Honors is conducted almost entirely in French. As a precursor to IB level classes, French 3H focuses on certain components of the Theory of Knowledge. The class aims to develop awareness and appreciation of the different perspectives of people from the Francophone world and to open students to other ways of seeing and knowing things through the study of another language. Students ideally display natural curiosity, enjoy exploring ideas and concepts that have a local and global significance, exercise critical thinking skills and international mindedness, and are caring and reflective. 
    Units of Study
    Introduction/Review
    Descriptions Physiques
    Tâches Domestiques
    Culture: La France, Géographie, provinces, villes
    Les Vives les Vacances
    Les objets directs, indirects, y et en
    Les Voyages
    Lecture (Reading) Les Miserables
    Lecture (Reading) Cyrano de Bergerac
    Chez le Médecin

  • French 4 - Grades 10-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: French 3 and a teacher recommendation
    As preparation for further study of French in college or high school, this course aims to develop the four skills of communication - reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Additionally, this course is offered to students interested in improving, or maintaining, their French skills, and who are not planning to take the IB test this year. Within the course framework, through the study of authentic texts, students investigate and reflect on cultural values and behaviors. Chapter units based on a variety of themes will allow students to develop receptive, productive, and interactive skills. Review of essential grammar and introduction of new vocabulary continues through the study of condensed literary and cultural works by well-known authors. Students view films, read articles, watch news broadcasts, and hear songs in French. Compositions and oral presentations designed to develop interpersonal written and spoken French are assigned. Activities allow students to personalize materials and express their ideas and opinions in an enjoyable and educational way. Students in French 4 must speak French as much as possible.
    Units of Study
    Le Monde Francophone
    La Préhistoire
    La Periode Gallo-Romaine
    Les Croisades, les cathédrales, Tristan et Yseult
    La Renaissance, les châteaux de la Loire
    Les Français Célèbres, biographie
    La Poesie
    Moliere
    Le Comte de Monte Cristo

  • French 4 Honors - Grades 10-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-
    As preparation for further study of French in college or high school, this course aims to develop the four skills of communication - reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Additionally, this course is offered to students interested in improving, or maintaining, their French skills, and who are not planning to take the IB test this year. Within the course framework, through the study of authentic texts, students investigate and reflect on cultural values and behaviors. Chapter units, based on a variety of themes, will allow students to develop receptive, productive, and interactive skills. Review of essential grammar and introduction of new vocabulary continues through the study of Francophone civilization, art, condensed literary and cultural works by well-known authors. Students view films, read articles, watch news broadcasts and hear songs in French. Compositions and oral presentations designed to develop interpersonal written and spoken French are assigned. Activities allow students to personalize materials and express their ideas and opinions in an enjoyable and educational way. Students in French 4 Honors must speak French as much as possible. As a possible precursor to IB level classes, students ideally display natural curiosity, enjoy exploring ideas and concepts that have a local and global significance, exercise critical thinking skills and international mindedness, and are caring and reflective.
    Units of Study
    Le Monde Francophone
    La Préhistoire
    La Periode Gallo-Romaine
    Les Croisades, les cathédrales, Tristan et Yseult
    La Renaissance, les châteaux de la Loire
    Les Français Célèbres, biographie
    La Poesie
    Moliere
    Le Comte de Monte Cristo

  • IB French B SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A- or higher in French 3 Honors or French 4 Honors

    Additional Fee: $10.00 for a French magazine subscription. Students in grade 12 enrolled in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Students in grade 11 who do not plan to take IB French HL in their senior year are required to complete a virtual component of the course outside of class that will total 28 hours throughout the year. These students are also expected to take the IB exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams.
    This course prepares students for the IB French Language Exams. The IB grade is determined by four factors. One factor is the internal assessment (IA) grade, which is scored by the instructor through various oral activities, the most significant being the 15-minute individual oral presentation/discussion, to take place in the second semester. There will also be a larger written activity that is externally assessed. Two additional factors occur on the scheduled IB exam days, including a 250-word essay in French, as well as various questions and short answers based on authentic French-language reading materials. 
    IB French SL consists of activities to develop skills that will effectively prepare students for these components, including daily speaking practice that targets grammar and vocabulary. Debates, interactive oral activities, and small writing assignments are regular tasks. The IB rubrics, in whole or in part, are used to evaluate most oral and written activities. Students explore IB themes through film, contemporary and classic literature, art, images, video, online audio, and current events from the French-speaking world.
    In concordance with the aims of the IB Organization, IB French seeks to promote understanding of another culture through the study of a second language. The aim of all IB programs is to develop internationally minded people, who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. 
    Units of Study
    Greetings
    The Francophone World
    Technology, Are we too connected?
    Technology and education of tomorrow
    Health and well being
    Family Relationships
    Friendship and solving conflicts
    Our Planet
    Pollution and Renewable energy
    GMO v Organic foods, Growing a greener world

  • Virtual Language Learning - Grade 11

    Corequisite: IB French B SL

    This is a required curriculum component of approximately 30 hours for students in grade 11 who plan to take the IB SL language exam. These hours are required to take the SL exam. Learning modules are managed through a Google classroom and assessments are recorded in the corequisite course. The deadline to start Virtual Language Learning (VLL) is October 1.

  • IB French B HL - Grade 12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB French B SL

    Additional Fee: Students enrolled in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam.
    This course prepares students for the IB French Language Exam in the higher level, or HL. The IB grade is determined by four factors. One factor is the internal assessment (IA) grade, which is scored by the instructor through various oral activities, the most significant being the 15-minute individual oral presentation/discussion, to take place in the second semester. There will also be a larger written activity that is externally assessed. Two additional factors occur on the scheduled IB exam days, including a 400-word essay in French, as well as various questions and short answers based on authentic French-language reading materials. 
    IB French HL consists of activities to develop skills that will effectively prepare students for these components, including daily speaking practice that targets grammar and vocabulary. Debates, interactive oral activities, writing assignments, and readings from classic French literature are regular tasks. The IB rubrics, in whole or in part, are used to evaluate most oral and written activities.  Students explore IB themes through film, contemporary and classic literature, art, images, video, online audio, and current events from the French-speaking world.
    In concordance with the aims of the IB Organization, IB French seeks to promote understanding of another culture through the study of a second language. The aim of all IB programs is to develop internationally minded people, who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. 
    Units of Study
    L'Amitié
    Immigration
    Why learn a second language? Why French
    Social relations
    Médias (La France Vue par le Monde)
    Readings: 
    The Little Prince
    The Man Who Planted Trees
    Kiffe Kiffe, Demain
    A selection of short stories

  • Latin 1 - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit
    Latin 1 introduces students to the basic vocabulary, grammatical forms, and sentence structures of the language. Students will build reading and translating proficiency with vocabulary, grammatical forms, and sentence structures. Students will study geography, history, mythology, daily life, and derivatives. Students learn through translation practice, vocabulary study, grammatical forms, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, grammatical proficiency as indicated by understanding various verb, noun, and adjective forms, reading Latin for comprehension, and understanding cultural contexts. This course will encourage students to think critically about the English language in terms of grammar and vocabulary. To be successful in this class students need a strong foundation of English grammar, to be organized, diligent, and analytical.
    Units of Study
    Basics of the Latin Language
    The Roman Family and Country Living
    Treatment of Slaves in Ancient Rome
    Travel and Lodging in the Ancient World

  • Latin 2 - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Latin 1
    Students will continue to build reading and translating proficiency with more complex vocabulary, grammatical forms, and sentence structures. Students will also take time to strengthen the foundations of Latin and English grammar. Students continue their study of geography, history, mythology, daily life, and derivatives. Students learn through translation practice, vocabulary study, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, reading Latin for comprehension, and understanding cultural contexts. To be successful in this class, students need to have a foundation from Latin 1, be organized, diligent, and analytical.
    Units of Study
    Latin I Review 
    Introduction to the City of Rome
    Rounding Out Latin Nouns and Introduction to Pronouns
    Introduction to Voice 
    City Life: Chariot Racing and Other Things to Do in the City
    Going to the Market and the Roman Dinner Party

  • Latin 2 Honors - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-
    Latin 2 Honors students will continue to build reading and translating proficiency with more complex vocabulary, grammatical forms, and sentence structures, at an accelerated pace. Students continue their study of geography, history, mythology, daily life, and derivatives. Students learn through translation practice, vocabulary study, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, reading Latin for comprehension, and understanding cultural contexts. To be successful in this class, students need to have a strong foundation from Latin 1, be organized, diligent, and analytical. 
    Units of Study
    Review
    Active Verb Tenses
    Noun Cases, 4th and 5th Declensions
    Pronouns
    Passive Voice
    Comparisons and Deponent Verbs
    Miscellaneous Grammar
    Latina Mythica

  • Latin 3 - Grades 9-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Latin 2 
    Latin 3 students complete the remaining linguistic structures of the language and continue to expand their vocabulary and translation skills. The study of geography, history, mythology, daily life, and derivatives is continued. During the second semester, readings from selected authors begin to prepare students for fourth-year Latin language study. Students learn through translation practice, practicing grammatical forms, vocabulary study, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, reading Latin for comprehension, and understanding cultural contexts. To be successful in this class, students need to have a firm foundation from Latin 1 and 2, a strong foundation of English grammar, organization, diligence, and the ability to be analytical.
    Units of Study
    Latin 2 Review
    Roman Education
    City Life: The Colosseum and Gladiatorial Games
    Coming of Age, Marriage, and Funerary Rites
    Introduction to Latin Literature

  • Latin 3 Honors - Grades 9-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-. Students must take Latin 2 Honors or Latin 3 to be considered for this class.
    Latin 3 Honors students complete the remaining linguistic structures of the language and continue to expand their vocabulary and translation skills through the reading of a variety of texts. The study of geography, history, mythology, daily life, and derivatives is continued in an intensive way. During the second semester, readings from selected authors begin to prepare students for fourth-year Latin language study. Students learn through translation practice, vocabulary study, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, reading Latin for comprehension, and understanding cultural contexts. This course prepares students for IB Latin SL. As a precursor to the IB level classes, Latin 3H focuses on certain components of the Theory of Knowledge course. To be successful in this class, students need to have a strong foundation from Latin 1 and 2 Honors, be organized, diligent, and analytical. 
    Units of Study
    Review
    Participles
    Infinitives and Indirect Statement
    Subjunctive
    Ovid’s Metamorphoses

  • Latin 4 - Grades 10-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Latin 3 and teacher recommendation
    Latin 4 students have completed linguistic structures of the language and continue to expand their vocabulary and translation skills by beginning to read texts of ancient authors. This course is meant to provide students with experience with authentic Latin while providing space to hone linguistic skills. Students learn through translation practice, vocabulary study, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, reading Latin for comprehension, understanding cultural contexts, literary analysis, and grammatical proficiency. While this course covers the same readings as Latin 4 Honors, student assessments, quizzes, tests, and projects are meant to continue developing grammatical and linguistic skills without emphasizing textual evaluation. To be successful in this class, students need to have a strong foundation from Latin 1, 2, and 3, be organized, diligent, and analytical.

    Units of Study
    Latin 3 Review
    Caesar: Gallic Wars and the Late Republic 
    Catullus: Falling in Love, Tough Breakups, and Putting People on Blast
    Vergil: Expedition and Epic

  • Latin 4 Honors - Grades 10-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-
    Latin 4 Honors students have completed linguistic structures of the language and continue to expand their vocabulary and translation skills by beginning to read texts of ancient authors. This course is meant to provide students with experience with authentic Latin while providing space to hone linguistic skills in preparation for intensive Latin study at the IB level. Students learn through translation practice, vocabulary study, and cultural projects. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text, reading Latin for comprehension, understanding cultural contexts, literary analysis, and grammatical proficiency. To be successful in this class, students need to have a strong foundation from Latin 1, 2 Honors, and 3 Honors, be organized, diligent, and analytical. 
    Units of Study
    Latin 3 Review
    Caesar: Gallic Wars and the Late Republic 
    Catullus: Falling in Love, Tough Breakups, and Putting People on Blast
    Vergil: Expedition and Epic

  • IB Latin SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A- or higher in Latin 3 Honors or Latin 4 Honors

    Additional Fee:  Students in grade 12 enrolled in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Students in grade 11 who do not plan to take IB Latin HL in their senior year are required to complete a virtual component of the course outside of class that will total 28 hours throughout the year. These students are also expected to take the IB exam.  A fee applies to all students taking the exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams.
    The course involves intensive study of Latin literary works by multiple authors to prepare students for the sight translation, prepared translation, and analysis portions of the IB Latin SL exam. All IB students are required to complete an Internal Assessment research dossier on an ancient topic. Students learn through group translations in class, discussion of cultural and historical contexts, and review of grammar and vocabulary. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text and literary analysis. To be successful in this class, students need to have a strong foundation in Latin grammar, be open-minded, diligent, and analytical.
    Units of Study
    Ovid’s Metamorphoses
    Love Poetry - Catullus and Horace
    Villains - Vergil, Livy, and Sallust
    Internal Assessment
    IB Exam Review

  • Virtual Language Learning - Grade 11

    Corequisite: IB Latin SL

    This is a required curriculum component of approximately 30 hours for students in grade 11 who plan to take the IB SL language exam. These hours are required to take the SL exam. Learning modules are managed through a Google classroom and assessments are recorded in the corequisite course. The deadline to start Virtual Language Learning (VLL) is October 1.

  • IB Latin HL - Grade 12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Latin SL

    Additional Fee: Students enrolled in IB Latin HL are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam.
    The course involves advanced, intensive study of Latin literary works by multiple authors to prepare students for the sight translation, prepared translation, and analysis portions of the IB Latin HL exam. All IB students are required to complete an Internal Assessment research dossier on an ancient topic. Students learn through group translations in class, discussion of cultural and historical contexts, and review of grammar and vocabulary. Skills emphasized are accurate translations of Latin text and literary analysis. To be successful in this class, students need to have a strong foundation in Latin grammar, be open-minded, diligent, and analytical.
    Units of Study
    Further Exploration of Ovid
    Further Exploration of Love Poetry
    Further Exploration of Villains
    Internal Assessment
    IB Exam Review

  • Spanish 1 - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit
    This course lays the foundation for all the subsequent Spanish courses. Spanish 1 teaches the basic grammatical points and extensive vocabulary for students to communicate in Spanish. The course focuses on the foundations necessary for speaking, reading, listening, and writing. As the year progresses, students are challenged to integrate all aspects of their learning through speaking, writing, listening, and reading. Students are expected to develop regular study habits, organizational skills, and active classroom participation through speaking practice in order to help them when learning new languages or continuing study of Spanish in college-level courses.
    Units of Study
    ¡Mucho gusto!
    ¡Al colegio!
    ¡En la ciudad!
    La familia y los amigos
    La rutina y la diversión
    Mi casa es su casa
    Las diversiones de todo el año

  • Spanish 2 - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Spanish 1
    This course studies Spanish through the competencies of communication, cultures, comparisons, connections, and communities. Students will learn to communicate in Spanish in order to function in a variety of settings and for multiple purposes. Students will interact with cultural competence, connect with other disciplines, and develop insight into the nature of language and culture. Students will build on their knowledge from Spanish 1 through verbal interaction in groups, textbook study, teacher instruction, and collaborative assignments. Students will apply knowledge gained in the course in a culminating project that will require mastery of the above competencies. This is a year-long course for students. Students should expect to challenge their comfort zone in learning and participating in a new language. They should also expect to be engaged in daily practice and review in order to be successful.
    Units of Study
    Amigos, alumnos y parientes
    En casa y en la escuela
    Personalidad y salud
    De compras y de vacaciones
    En avión
    Una rutina diferente
    En tren
    En el restaurante

  • Spanish 2 Honors - Grades 8-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-
    In Spanish 2 Honors, students continue to improve their communication skills in the target language. This course is designed to increase familiarity with basic and more complex grammatical structures through level-appropriate communication activities that help students develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension. 
     
    Cultural awareness is emphasized throughout the year, and students learn to appreciate cultural differences and similarities, particularly through the textbook chapters and various calendar holidays and/or worldly events. Students are encouraged to speak as much Spanish as possible and are required to interact with the teacher in Spanish on a daily basis. 
    Students will acquire Spanish through a variety of activities that develop their overall proficiency as well as deepen their connection with the people, places, and histories of the Spanish-speaking world.
    Units of Study
    Repaso A-D: review of spanish 1 grammar concepts
    En avión- Present Progressive and “Go” verbs
    ¡Una rutina diferente!- Reflexive verbs
    En tren- Preterite of Irregular verbs
    En el restaurante- Stem-changing verbs in the preterite, passive “se” voice
    ¿Qué se celebra?- regular and irregular imperfect tense
    Tecnomundo- preterite and imperfect tense

  • Spanish 3 - Grades 9-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Spanish 2
    Spanish 3 emphasizes securing the skills learned in Spanish 1 and 2. Grammar study and vocabulary development continue throughout the year, with emphasis on the four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Discussions of Spanish and Latin American culture are also included. Compositions and creative projects are occasionally assigned to allow students to demonstrate the synthesis of concepts.
    Units of Study
    Las Relaciones Personales
    Las Diversiones
    La Vida Diaria
    La Salud y El Bienestar
    Los Viajes

  • Spanish 3 Honors - Grades 9-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-. Students must take Spanish 2 Honors or Spanish 3 to be considered for this class.
    Spanish 3 Honors includes a review of all points of grammar and all tenses, indicative through subjunctive. A variety of materials are used to develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, including internet sources. Written compositions and cultural readings are regularly assigned. This course prepares students for IB Spanish SL. As a precursor to the IB level classes, Spanish 3H focuses on certain components of the Theory of Knowledge course. The class aims to develop awareness and appreciation of the different perspectives of people from the Spanish-speaking world and to open students to other ways of seeing and knowing through the study of another language. Students will need to demonstrate independent learning, advanced organizational skills, and utilize critical and higher-level thinking skills on a daily basis. Daily practice and review of all material are essential to success. 
    Units of Study
    Las Relaciones Personales
    Las Diversiones
    La Vida Diaria
    La Salud y El Bienestar
    Los Viajes
    La Naturaleza

  • Spanish 4 - Grades 10-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Spanish 3 and teacher recommendation
    This course studies Spanish through the competencies of communication, cultures, comparisons, connections, and communities. Students will learn to communicate in Spanish in order to function in a variety of settings and for multiple purposes. Students will interact with cultural competence, connect with other disciplines, and develop insight into the nature of language and culture. Students will build on their knowledge from Spanish 3 through verbal interaction in groups, textbook study, teacher instruction, and collaborative assignments. Students will apply knowledge gained in the course in a culminating project that will require mastery of the above competencies. Students should expect to challenge their comfort zone in learning and participating in a new language. They should also expect to be engaged in daily practice and review in order to be successful.
    Units of Study
    Sentir y vivir
    Vivir en la ciudad
    Un mundo conectado
    Generaciones en movimiento
    Las Riquezas Naturales
    Escapar y divertirse

  • Spanish 4 Honors - Grades 10-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A-
    This course serves as preparation for IB Spanish SL. This course studies Spanish through the competencies of communication, cultures, comparisons, connections, and communities. Students will learn to communicate in Spanish in order to function in a variety of settings and for multiple purposes. Students will interact with cultural competence, connect with other disciplines, and develop insight into the nature of language and culture. Students will build on their knowledge from Spanish 3 Honors through verbal interaction in groups, the study of authentic materials, teacher instruction, independent writing, and collaborative assignments. Students will apply knowledge gained in the course in a culminating project that will require mastery of the above competencies. Students should expect to challenge their comfort zone in learning and participating in a new language. They should also expect to be engaged in daily practice and review in order to be successful.
    Units of Study
    Sentir y vivir
    Vivir en la ciudad
    Un mundo conectado
    Generaciones en movimiento
    Las Riquezas Naturales
    Escapar y divertirse

  • Spanish 5 - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Spanish 4 and teacher recommendation
    This course studies Spanish through the competencies of communication, cultures, comparisons, connections, and communities. Students will learn to communicate in Spanish in order to function in a variety of settings and for multiple purposes. Students will interact with cultural competence, connect with other disciplines, and develop insight into the nature of language and culture. Students will build on their knowledge from Spanish 4 through verbal interaction in groups, textbook study, teacher instruction, and collaborative assignments. Students will apply knowledge gained in the course in a culminating project that will require mastery of the above competencies. Students should expect to challenge their comfort zone in learning and participating in a new language. They should also expect to be engaged in daily practice and review in order to be successful.
    Units of Study
    El Valor de las ideas
    Perspectivas laborales
    Ciencia y tecnología
    Escapar y divertirse

  • IB Spanish B SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of A- or higher in Spanish 3 Honors or Spanish 4 Honors

    Additional Fee:  Students in grade 12 enrolled in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Students in grade 11 who do not plan to take IB Spanish HL in their senior year are required to complete a virtual component of the course outside of class that will total 28 hours throughout the year. These students are also expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking the exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. 
    This course prepares students for the IB Spanish B Language Exams. The IB grade is determined by four factors. One factor is the internal assessment (IA) grade, which is scored by the instructor through the 15-minute individual oral presentation/discussion, to take place in the second semester. Three additional factors occur on the scheduled IB exam days, including a 250-word essay in Spanish, as well as various questions and short answers based on authentic Spanish-language reading materials, and a listening comprehension component. 
    IB Spanish SL consists of activities to develop skills that will effectively prepare students for these components, including daily speaking practice that targets grammar and vocabulary. Debates, interactive oral activities, and small writing assignments are regular tasks. The IB rubrics, in whole or in part, are used to evaluate most oral and written activities. Students taking this course should be open-minded and curious about other perspectives. They should be independent learners able to synthesize concepts in reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities.
    In concordance with the aims of the IB Organization, IB Spanish seeks to promote understanding of another culture through the study of a second language. The aim of all IB programs is to develop internationally minded people, who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.
    Units of Study
    Searching for New Adventures
    Che Guevara
    Immigration 
    Young People in the World Today
    Afro-Latino Culture
    Frida Kahlo and the Selfie
    Food Challenges
    Sustainability

  • Virtual Language Learning - Grade 11

    Corequisite: IB Spanish B SL

    This is a required curriculum component of 28 hours for students in grade 11 who plan to take the IB SL language exam.  Learning modules are managed through a Google classroom and assessments are recorded in the corequisite course. The deadline to start Virtual Language Learning (VLL) is October 1.

  • IB Spanish B HL - Grade 12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Spanish B SL

    Additional Fee: Students enrolled in IB Spanish HL are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam.
    The International Baccalaureate Organization’s expressed mission is to encourage students to be knowledgeable and inquiring, but also caring and compassionate. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging students to develop intercultural understanding, open-mindedness, and the attitudes necessary for them to respect and evaluate a range of points of view. The goals of IB Spanish Higher Level are directly aligned with IB's mission. Over the course of the year, students will develop a fluent or near-fluent proficiency in the Spanish language while exploring various global themes, issues, and Spanish and Latin American literature. 
    Students will enhance their skills in communicating clearly and effectively in a range of situations, demonstrating linguistic competence and intercultural understanding; using language appropriate to a range of interpersonal and/or cultural contexts; understanding and using language to express and respond to a range of ideas with accuracy and fluency, organizing ideas on a range of topics, in a clear, coherent and convincing manner; understanding, analyzing and responding to a range of written and spoken texts; and understanding and using works of literature written in the target language of study.
    The course explores content through a variety of sources including music, dance, art, literature, feature films, historical records, documentary films, and more. This course is recommended for students with a genuine desire to become fluent in Spanish and a strong interest in global issues with a focus on Latin America. 
    Units of Study
    Identities
    Experiences
    Human Ingenuity
    Social Organization
    Sharing the Planet
    Various literary selections

List of 2 items.

  • Notes on Advanced Placement (AP Courses)

    ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) denotes courses which are part of the curriculum of the College Entrance Examination Board. They are designed to allow students to do college-level work in high school. To be admitted to AP courses, the student must meet prerequisites.

    Academic Expectations: Students are expected to maintain at least a C average at the end of the first semester.

    Exam Expectations: Students are expected to take the AP exam at the end of the year. A fee applies to all students taking an AP exam.

    For additional academic information regarding grading scales, exams, progress reports, etc., please consult the Student-Parent Handbook (login will be sent to new students in Mid-August).

  • Notes on International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses

    INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) is a two-year, intellectually challenging curriculum with an international perspective for students in grades 11 and 12. The IB diploma candidate takes six IB tests in the following subject areas: English, Social Studies, World Language, Mathematics, Science and an elective. In addition, each student writes a 4,000-word essay and fulfills an extra-curricular and community service requirement. A valuable component of the program is a course called Theory of Knowledge, which teaches how knowledge is acquired and validated.

    Academic Expectations: Students are expected to maintain at least a C average at the end of the first semester in SL courses and at the end of the first year of HL courses.

    Exam Expectations: Students enrolled in IB courses are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking an IB exam.

    Additional Note about Course Selection and Exam Decisions: Students in an IB SL course in grade 11 who plan to continue HL in grade 12 are encouraged to take the IB SL exam for formative assessment and for a contingency plan. If a student is unable to take the IB SL exam due to IB requirements or special circumstances, the student will take a mock IB SL exam before the end of the school year. If the student does not continue with HL in grade 12, the mock exam will contribute 25% of the student’s second semester grade in the SL subject.

Faculty

Trinity Episcopal School

3850 PITTAWAY DR | RICHMOND VA 23235-1099 | Phone: 804.272.5864 | Fax: 804.272.5865 Email: mail@trinityes.org