World Languages

Welcome to World Languages

Language and communication are at the heart of the human experience. Learning to communicate in another language is critical to our students' ability to function linguistically and culturally in a global society. The APS Office of World Languages envisions a future in which all students will develop and maintain proficiency in at least one other language. Our focus is to:

Ensure students receive quality instruction in Spanish, French, Chinese and Latin through an articulated, sequential program which prepares them for a global society;
Provides opportunities for cultural and linguistic enrichment through Governor’s Honors, Semester Abroad and other student travel opportunities.

Spotlights

Americans Promoting Study Abroad (APSA)

APS continues its partnership with APSA to afford students enrolled in Chinese language courses the opportunity of a lifetime. In June 2011 five students traveled to Beijing, China where they spent six weeks completing community service, studying the Chinese language and culture intensively, and becoming familiar with the opportunities available through learning a second language. Students pictured from Carver Early College, Maynard Jackson and North Atlanta High Schools (all schools offering Mandarin Chinese).

Semester Abroad 2011The eight students who returned from the Spring 2011 Semester Abroad Programs in France and Ecuador have made tremendous gains in both language acquisition and cultural awareness. They shared their experiences through the completion of summative portfolios and school level presentations.

Students prepare to visit St. Brieuc, France

China Camp 2011 During the summer of 2011, the Office of World Languages held its third annual Chinese Camp at Burgess-Peterson Elementary School. The students utilized their Chinese skills to read, write, speak and listen to Chinese. They also showcased their skills for the parents at the end of the camp. High school students from Carver and South Atlanta that travelled to China for six weeks through Americans Promoting Studies Abroad (APSA) during the latter part of the summer spoke to the elementary Chinese students and inspired them to continue with their studies of the language. Ms. Elizabeth Mann was the site administrator for the program. When asked, “What was the most successful part of the program?” Ms. Mann responded, “ The staff members were so passionate about teaching that they motivated students to come and learn daily. Student’s Chinese language skills improved in this short time and I believe that they have a deeper appreciation for the culture and language.”

Upcoming Events

5th and 8th Grade Assessments

All 5th and 8th grade students enrolled in language courses were assessed in spring 2011 to determine proper placement in grades six and nine. This will allow us to align instruction and articulate the program, avoiding repetition of material covered during prior years. This school year, teachers are preparing their students for the second year of the assessment by addressing listening, speaking, reading, and writing on a daily basis.

Professional Learning

World Language Academy

K-12 Foreign Language instructors participated in a virtual "World Language Academy" session in August 2011, completing a needs assessment that determined the content of future sessions. On the remaining professional learning days scheduled for this school year, foreign language teachers will participate in face-to-face as well as online courses targeted to address specific areas of instruction. For more information on World Language Academy and other program initiatives, please visit www.apsowl.com