World Languages

Course Descriptions

American Sign Language

ASL 1

American Sign Language 1 introduces students to the fundamentals of ASL through expressive and receptive communication. Students develop foundational signing skills, fingerspelling, vocabulary, and grammar while learning about Deaf culture, history, and community. The course emphasizes real-world communication and provides a strong foundation for continued language study.

ASL 2

ASL 2 builds on the skills developed in ASL 1 by expanding vocabulary, strengthening grammatical fluency, and increasing confidence in expressive and receptive signing. Students engage in more complex conversations while deepening their understanding of Deaf culture and the linguistic structure of American Sign Language.

ASL 3

ASL 3 develops intermediate proficiency through increasingly sophisticated conversations, storytelling, and descriptive communication. Students refine their use of classifiers, non-manual markers, and advanced sentence structures while expanding their cultural understanding and expressive abilities.

ASL 4

ASL 4 prepares students for advanced communication in authentic settings. Students develop fluency through interpretation, role shifting, complex conversations, and advanced grammatical structures while demonstrating confidence communicating within the Deaf community.

Latin

Latin 1

Latin 1 introduces students to the foundations of the Latin language through grammar, vocabulary, translation, and Roman civilization. Students build reading skills while exploring the history, culture, mythology, and lasting influence of ancient Rome.

Latin 2

Latin 2 expands students' knowledge of Latin grammar and vocabulary while introducing longer and more complex readings. Students continue developing translation skills and deepen their understanding of Roman history, literature, and culture.

Latin 3

Latin 3 strengthens advanced grammar and translation skills through the study of authentic Latin prose and poetry. Students read selections from classical authors while exploring Roman literature, rhetoric, and poetic style.

Latin 4

Latin 4 refines students' proficiency through advanced readings from Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance Latin texts. Students continue developing sophisticated translation skills while examining the evolution and enduring influence of the Latin language.

AP Latin: Vergil

AP Latin provides an in-depth study of Vergil's Aeneid while preparing students for the AP Latin Exam. Students analyze the literary, historical, and cultural significance of one of Rome's greatest epics while developing advanced translation, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

Hebrew

Hebrew 1

Hebrew 1 introduces students to the fundamentals of the Hebrew language through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students develop essential vocabulary, learn the Hebrew alphabet, practice basic grammar, and build conversational skills while exploring the rich history and culture of Hebrew-speaking communities.

Hebrew 2

Hebrew 2 builds upon foundational language skills by expanding vocabulary, strengthening grammar, and increasing fluency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students engage in more meaningful conversations while gaining a deeper appreciation of Hebrew language and culture.

Hebrew 3 Honors

Hebrew 3 Honors is an advanced course that refines students' proficiency through authentic literature, media, and cultural studies. Students strengthen advanced communication, analytical thinking, and writing skills while preparing for higher-level language study.

French

French 1

French 1 introduces students to the fundamentals of the French language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students develop essential vocabulary, learn foundational grammar, and build conversational skills while exploring the diverse cultures of the French-speaking world.

French 2

French 2 expands students' communication skills through increasingly complex grammar, vocabulary, and conversation. Students continue developing confidence in reading, writing, listening, and speaking while exploring Francophone cultures and traditions.

French 3

French 3 strengthens language proficiency through advanced conversation, composition, literature, and authentic cultural materials. Students develop greater fluency while refining their understanding of grammar and written expression.

French 4 (College Prep & Honors)

French 4 prepares students for advanced language study through rigorous work in conversation, grammar, literature, and composition. Students develop the confidence and proficiency needed for college-level language study and real-world communication.

AP French Language & Culture

AP French Language & Culture is a college-level course designed to develop advanced proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Through authentic literature, media, and current events, students strengthen their communication skills while preparing for the AP French Language & Culture Exam.

French Literature (UC Honors)

French Literature (UC Honors) explores significant works of French and Francophone literature while strengthening advanced language proficiency. Students develop literary analysis, critical thinking, and sophisticated communication skills through the study of prose, poetry, and drama.

German

German 1

German 1 introduces students to the fundamentals of the German language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students build foundational vocabulary and grammar while exploring the history, geography, and culture of German-speaking countries.

German 2

German 2 expands students' communication skills by strengthening grammar, vocabulary, and conversational fluency. Students continue developing proficiency in all four language domains while gaining deeper cultural understanding.

German 3

German 3 develops advanced communication skills through authentic reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities. Students refine their grammar and pronunciation while exploring German literature, history, traditions, and contemporary culture.

German 4

German 4 prepares students for advanced language study through authentic texts, discussions, and written communication conducted primarily in German. Students strengthen fluency while developing a deeper appreciation for German-speaking cultures.

AP German Language & Culture

AP German Language & Culture is a rigorous college-level course that develops advanced communication skills through authentic language use and cultural exploration. Students prepare for the AP German Language & Culture Exam while building proficiency comparable to an advanced college language course.

Spanish

Spanish 1

Spanish 1 introduces students to the foundations of the Spanish language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students develop essential vocabulary, master foundational grammar, and build confidence communicating in everyday situations while exploring the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

Spanish 2

Spanish 2 builds upon first-year skills by expanding vocabulary, strengthening grammar, and increasing fluency in all four language domains. Students engage in more meaningful conversations while developing confidence expressing ideas in Spanish.

Spanish 3

Spanish 3 emphasizes advanced communication through authentic cultural themes, literature, and real-world applications. Students refine their understanding of complex grammar while strengthening speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.

Spanish 3 Honors

Spanish 3 Honors offers an accelerated study of advanced grammar, communication, and cultural analysis. Students engage in authentic language experiences while developing the critical thinking and analytical skills expected in an honors-level course.

Spanish 4 Honors

Spanish 4 Honors prepares students for advanced language study through rigorous work in grammar, conversation, composition, and authentic literature. Students strengthen fluency while developing confidence communicating in academic and real-world settings.

AP Spanish Language

AP Spanish Language is a college-level course designed to develop advanced proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Through authentic texts, media, and cultural topics, students strengthen analytical and communication skills while preparing for the AP Spanish Language Exam.

AP Spanish Literature

AP Spanish Literature introduces students to major literary works from Spain and Latin America while strengthening advanced language proficiency. Through literary analysis and discussion conducted primarily in Spanish, students develop critical thinking, cultural understanding, and college-level communication skills.

I think this style better reflects SIL's academic rigor while remaining approachable to prospective students and families. Each description is approximately the same length, follows a consistent voice, and highlights the progression from one level to the next. It also aligns well with the concise Hebrew descriptions you started with.