world languages

HCIS World Languages teachers believe that foreign language education is an accessible, important experience for every human being. This inclusive and practical perspective informs every aspect of HCIS's foreign language program. Instead of just memorizing textbook vocabulary lists and conjugations, students combine individual reading and comprehension activities with action - they interact and participate in a learning environment designed to be authentic to them, and to create real language acquisition. In other words, kids care about what they're learning - and they learn it more effectively - because it's real, not imaginary or contrived. They use the language instead of repeating phrases out of context. They learn legitimately useful skills and information that expand thought and perception.

HCIS requires all students to complete 2 years of a foreign language prior to graduation. The majority of our students are enrolled in Spanish courses taught by our highly qualified, fluent teachers. Spanish levels 1 - 3 are offered each year. Elective courses are also offered to give students the opportunity to put their language skills to use. For example, students have written children's books in Spanish and shared them with local elementary school students, or in the Spring of 2007 a Symposium class traveled to Chicago to work with the Spanish-speaking population on a service learning trip.

Highly motivated, self-directed students can apply to study French, Japanese, German, or Russian on an independent basis.