I. Course Description

     The Spanish 4 course continues to cover original and abridged works of Spanish and Latin American writers, as well as history and culture to the Spanish language. Grammar is reviewed and conversational vocabulary is enlarged. Supplemental materials are used to provide stimulus for speaking everyday Spanish in the classroom. It is expected the discussion of the material be carried on in the target language with a greater degree of fluency than in the third year.

II. Materials

      Conversacion y Repaso, Sandstedt, Kite, Copeland (eighth edition).
      Conversacion y Repaso Workbook/Lab Manual
      Repaso: A complete review of Spanish grammar, communication, and culture,
      National Textbook Co.

      *Supplemental materials from literature, current periodicals, videos and the Internet will be used throughout the course.

III. Grading

      Your quarter grade will consist of test grades and quiz grades (which will be
averaged to equal one test grade). Tests and quizzes may be written and/or oral. Oral presentations will be assigned during the year and will count as a test or a quiz, depending on the individual assignment. Tests will be announced at least three days in advance.
      In addition, each quarter you will be assigned to write 2 – 3 essays of 150 – 200 words in length on an assigned topic. These essays will count as a test grade. The essay will be returned graded and with mistakes highlighted. Your essays will be graded based on the quality and organization of your thoughts in addressing the theme in the target language. Appropriate use of vocabulary, grammar and structures will be evaluated as well.
      If you wish to improve your grade, you may rewrite your essays with corrections and resubmit it for a better grade. The improved version must be submitted no later than one cycle from the day the first version was returned to you. If your first version is handed in late, you will not be allowed to make corrections for a better grade.
      Homework is a vital component for your success in this class. In order to participate in class each day, you must be prepared. A participation grade will be calculated into your final average each quarter.

IV. Absences

You are responsible for finding out what work you have missed in the event of your absence. This applies to absences due to illness, college visits, early dismissal, guidance appointments, retreats, etc. Quizzes and tests will be made up no later than one cycle from the day of return to class. If you are absent only the day before an announced test you will take the test with the class. This also applies for an essay deadline.

V. Teacher Availability

I am available for help during my open times each school day. Please check my schedule posted in Room A115. I am also available in Room A115 after school each day.
I am looking forward to getting to know each of you and to a very successful academic year. I congratulate you in choosing to continue your study of Spanish at the advanced level and encourage you to apply your knowledge and skills outside the classroom. It is my hope that you will continue to study Spanish in the future and will make language acquisition a lifelong endeavor.