Presque Isle High School
Modern Languages Department
Philosophy, Goals, and Objectives of the Modern Languages Department
Language and communication are at the heart of the human experience, whether communication takes place face-to-face, in writing, or across the centuries through the reading of literature. Our students must have the linguistic and cultural skills to communicate successfully in a pluralistic society at home and abroad. All students should develop a level of proficiency in at least one other language. All students should study language and culture in an integrated fashion, beginning in elementary school and extending through their entire school experience. Whatever their heritage, there is an opportunity for students to gain an understanding of themselves and others through the study of another culture.
The organizing principle in today's modern language classroom is communication, which highlights how (grammar) and what (vocabulary and content) as well as why, to whom and when (social and cultural aspects of language). While grammar and vocabulary remain essential tools for communication, learning to use a second language in meaningful and appropriate ways is the ultimate goal of Modern Languages instruction.
As we aligned our curriculum to the Learning Results, we struggled with the term "mastered." In almost no case do we feel that students master most aspects of a language in a four year sequence of study. We decided that we were more comfortable with the term "proficient," which more accurately reflects the skills of a high school student in SAD # 1 who has studied a language beyond level two.
Modern Languages Dept. Faculty
Marcia Lord
Department Chairperson
(French II, III, IV)
 Debbra Martin (French I) |
 Nicola Lallande (Spanish II, III, IV) |
 Trevor Esposito (Spanish I, II) |
Modern Languages Course Descriptions
Enrollment is subject to previous academic performance, test scores, and teacher recommendations.
FRENCH I (1 Credit)
French I incorporates listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in situations that are basic in the daily life of a student. The study of the customs and culture of French speaking countries is also an important component of this course. Communication skills through paired activities will be emphasized and evaluated.
FRENCH II (1 Credit)
French II provides a continuity of the first-year French program by enlarging upon and becoming more involved in oral and written self-expression, listening and reading comprehension. Much emphasis is placed on daily performance with partners in communication activities. Cultural components of this course continue to emphasize the diversity of French culture around the world.
FRENCH III (1 Credit)
French III encourages students to use previously acquired skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing, and to develop more confidence in self-expression. Students are introduced to more advanced reading materials through units including mysteries, poetry, music, history and geography
of French speaking countries. Strong emphasis is placed on communication skills in group and paired activities. As the school year progresses, more and more emphasis is placed on speaking and listening only in French.
FRENCH IV (1 Credit)
With continued emphasis placed on spoken French, French IV students should be prepared to express themselves almost entirely in the target language. French will be used exclusively during teacher presentation, group activities, reading assignments and written assignments. The curriculum will include but not be limited to exploring the French influence in North America, working with contemporary French poetry, and studying a contemporary French classic.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL PROGRAM (1/2 Credit) Grades 11 & 12
Traditionally, this program is offered every other year at the discretion of the administration. The first month of this nine-week course prepares students with the knowledge and skills to derive the maximum benefit of their international travel experience. The highlight of the program follows--an 11-12 day study trip to (typically) two European countries. The course culminates with “processing the travel experience” following the students’ return to the US. Recent trips have included travel to France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, England, and Ireland. Enrollment is by application and students are selected based primarily on their citizenship. Typically, this program is open for application in late spring preceding the year of study-travel. This course partially meets the State’s fine arts requirement.
MODERN LANGUAGE TRAVEL (no additional credit)
Cultural, theater and fine arts trips which are linked to the modern languages curriculum may be offered as opportunities arise. Previous trips have included Boston Theater (Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera) and the Museum of Fine Arts , as well as educational travel to Québec. Trips to Central and South America are also possibilities. Participation is based on course enrollment and citizenship. Projects related to the trip are directly connected to the curriculum.
SPANISH I (1 Credit)
Spanish I is a course designed to introduce students to the Spanish speaking world by introducing and reinforcing speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills. Customs and cultural awareness are important components of the course. Language skills will be reinforced and evaluated by classroom oral communication as well as written activities.
SPANISH II (1 Credit)
Spanish II is a continuation of Spanish I. It offers new structures and expands on the comprehension, speaking, reading and writing skills acquired in Spanish I. There is greater emphasis on conversation and speaking abilities. Classes are taught in Spanish to the extent possible. Students should have at least a “C” average to go on to Spanish III.
SPANISH III (1Credit)
Spanish III encourages students to use previously acquired skills in speaking, listening, writing and reading, as they continue to build their knowledge base and develop more confidence in self-expression. Students are also introduced to more advanced writing tasks and reading materials through units including the legends, history, music and geography of Latin America.
SPANISH IV (1 Credit)
Spanish IV continues development of the four basic language skills. Activities include more oral and written self-expression with an emphasis on historical and geographical units representing the diversity of the Hispanic world.
For additional information on courses and graduation requirements, please refer to the PIHS Program of Studies handbook, available in PDF format.
Maine School Administrative District #1
Last updated August 24, 2007