World Languages Academic Courses

Spanish Program (for SY2025-2026)
 

(NCAA Approved)???????

The design of the Spanish credit program for the CTECS is aligned to college credit requirements for World Languages based on Common Core Standards and Spanish World Languages course standards. The CTECS Spanish program complies with state standards instruction. CTECS students are offered the opportunity to graduate from high school with an added set of skills by pursuing a foreign language. This pathway provides our students with an added repertoire of academic and language skills, making them college and/or career ready and enhancing their opportunities to navigate the job market of the 21st Century.
 

World Languages Spanish I, II, and III are progressive courses designed to develop students' proficiency in Spanish and deepen their appreciation of the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

Aligned with the 5 C’s of the National Standards for Foreign Language Learning – Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities – and the Connecticut World Language Standards, these courses emphasize the integration of language and culture through meaningful, authentic learning experiences.
 

In Spanish I, students build foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. They practice essential vocabulary and grammar while exploring cultural practices, products, and perspectives.
 

Spanish II builds on this foundation, advancing students’ proficiency with more complex grammatical structures, expanded vocabulary, and enhanced communication tasks. Students engage in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication while connecting their language learning to CTE disciplines and reflecting on cultural comparisons.
 

Spanish for Heritage Speakers Level 1 is designed to strengthen students’ linguistic skills while deepening their connection to their cultural heritage. Through six thematic units, students explore their personal and collective identities, examining their family histories, cultural traditions, and the significance of their heritage. They investigate how food reflects cultural values, how music serves as a form of expression, and how art shapes and represents identity. Additionally, the course delves into the historical impact of indigenous civilizations, colonization, and the shared history that connects Latin America. Students will also analyze the contributions of Latinos in the American entertainment industry, recognizing the struggles and achievements that have shaped their presence in media and sports. By engaging in meaningful discussions, self-reflection, and critical analysis, students will develop a stronger appreciation for their linguistic and cultural heritage while enhancing their Spanish proficiency.
 

Spanish for Heritage Speakers Level 2 provides students with a deeper understanding of their linguistic and cultural heritage through six thought-provoking thematic units. Students explore personal and public identity, reflecting on life-changing experiences, generational conflicts, and the impact of social environments. They examine their relationship with nature, environmental issues, and ethical concerns regarding traditions and animal rights. The course also delves into how knowledge is preserved and transmitted across generations through legends, oral traditions, and urban myths. Students critically analyze the concept of freedom, human rights, and historical political struggles in Spanish-speaking countries. Through poetry and literary expression, they learn to convey emotions and perspectives using imagery and structure. Lastly, students explore cultural identity, superstitions, beliefs, and the interplay between the real and the inexplicable. This curriculum fosters critical thinking, cultural appreciation, and linguistic development, empowering students to engage meaningfully with their heritage.
 

In Spanish III, students transition from learning language structures to using the language more independently and creatively. They refine their fluency through in-depth exploration of themes and authentic resources, engaging in discussions, projects, and writing tasks that reflect real-world applications. Across all levels, students strengthen their ability to communicate effectively, develop cross-cultural understanding, and prepare to participate as global citizens in multilingual communities.

Spanish World Languages graduation requirement will be offered either as .5 or 1 credit course options as determined by the school scheduling framework.

Students who have successfully passed a world language in Middle School may meet the world language graduation requirement at CTECS if all curriculum and clock hour time in class requirements established by the Connecticut State Department of Education were met. The students are encouraged to register in World Language Spanish I, II, and III as an elective.