Departmental Philosophy

The study of another language leads to communication. Our goal is to teach all students to communicate beyond their native languages in order to participate effectively in this world.

Every student will demonstrate an ability to communicate in a second language.

All students will begin the study of a second language as early as possible.

The study of another language leads to understanding other cultures. Our goal is to recognize what is common to all human experience and to accept that which is different.

Students will demonstrate an ability to identify behavior which is universal.

Students will demonstrate an ability to act appropriately in another culture and language.

Students will demonstrate an acceptance of cultural values which differ from their own.

The study of another language leads to critical thinking skills. Our goal is to enhance the ability to analyze, to compare and contrast, to synthesize, to improvise, and to examine cultures through a language and a perspective other than one's own.

Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze information in a second language.

Students will be able to perceive differences and similarities between cultures and to express those differences in a second language.

Students will be able to express and support a variety of viewpoints in a second language.

The study of another language leads to an interdisciplinary view of the curriculum. Our goal is to have every student begin language study as early as possible in an interdisciplinary environment.

Students will be able to access and process information in a second language using current technology.

Students will be able to express and demonstrate basic mathematical, social, scientific, and literary concepts in a second language.