COURSE DESCRIPTION:

The purpose of this course is to bring students from the novice level of oral proficiency, where they are beginning to communicate using memorized material, to the intermediate level, where they can create with language; participate in progressively more challenging conversations; and communicate successfully in basic survival situations. Students are exposed to the entire verb system and all of the most common grammatical structures. Short literary pieces strengthen the students’ reading skills by exposure to the prose of recognized Spanish authors.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. To express yourself accurately using the basic structures and vocabulary learned in levels 1 and 2
2. To learn new vocabulary and new structure
3. To improve reading, writing, speaking and listening skills (especially speaking)
4. To appreciate Spanish literary works

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

I. MATERIALS:

A. Textbook: ¡Avancemos! by McDougal Littell 2007
B. Workbook: ¡Avancemos! Cuaderno practica por niveles by McDougal Littell 2007
C. Notebook: (spiral with pockets/separate folder) for homework, classwork, class notes, handouts
D. Number 2 pencils for apperson tests and quizzes
E. Pens: black ink or blue ink
F. Dictionary (Larousse- check the bookstore)- optional

11. GRADING POLICY : based on a point system and quarter grades will consist of tests, quizzes, and homework. Your grade is how many points you earn divided by the possible points. You are also expected to actively participate at all times during class. Nobody is exempted from the midterm or final exams.

III. HOMEWORK : both written and study on a regular basis and will be checked or collected at random. Its purpose is to reinforce what you learned in class and to prepare you for tests and quizzes. I place the assignments on the board and also on netclass.

IV. ABSENCE: You are responsible for finding out and making up whatever work you have missed. The number of days absent plus one equals the number of days you have for make up. You can not make up missed work during class time. You must do so before and after school.

V. EXTRA HELP: I am available before school, after school and most G6 periods. Let me know ahead of time when I can expect you.

VI. CLASSROOM POLICIES:

1. It is your responsibility to be familiar with the rules, regulations, and consequences of behavior as outlined in the Student Handbook.

2. Gentlemanly behavior is required at all times. Nothing else will be tolerated. Respect is due yourself, one another and the teacher.

3. You must bring your books and materials to class every day of the year, including testing days. You are only permitted to go to your lockers in between classes.

4. Raise your hand and wait to be acknowledged before speaking. Don’t call out.

5. Maintain assigned seating until the bell rings to dismiss class. Your seat is your responsibility. Keep your desk and surrounding area clean. The teacher will take care of handling the windows and blinds.

6. Bathroom and other needs are to be taken care of as much as possible before the bell rings to keep interruption of the class at a minimum.