Academic Course in Spanish

Spanish instruction at Brookside begins in junior kindergarten and continues through fifth grade. Classes are taught almost entirely in Spanish. Brookside's Spanish program is called FLEX (FOREIGN LANGUAGE EXPOSURE). The FLEX program provides opportunity for early exposure to a second language so children can understand language concepts more thoroughly, helping them in learning both foreign languages and their mother language. Children begin to master the sound system and correct pronunciation of Spanish and develop a feeling of confidence. In the program, language participation in class activities is of primary importance. Paired activities, small group work, short films, games and songs (all in Spanish) develop skills in simple communication. Students are also encouraged to make connections and comparisons between their language and culture, and the language and culture of Spain and Latin America. Students in the fourth and fifth grade use the text Descubre el Español con Santillana to support and extend their learning. An online component of this curriculum allows for rich home school connections.

The program is designed to help students feel comfortable verbalizing the Spanish language with an introduction to reading and writing in Spanish, provide a life-long interest in foreign language learning, expose students to selected Hispanic festivities and create a foundation for language study in the middle school.

Globalization is part of our daily lives. The ability to speak several languages plays a major role. The world speaks more than one language, and Brookside students are a part of this global trend.