World Languages & Cultures

Our Mission: Language study is a critical tool in bridging the gap between other individuals and cultures. Our mission is to promote sustained, meaningful communication between all peoples and cultures in an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding and respect. Using a global approach and a commitment to critical thinking, we educate students to be linguistically prepared to effectively communicate in our global society.

Curriculum: Each year, more than 90% of our students study one or more world languages. Increasingly, many upperclassmen opt to study an additional world language before graduation. Five levels of Mandarin, French and Spanish are offered, from Introductory to Advanced Placement courses, along with culture-focused electives. In order to graduate from Archmere Academy, each student must successfully complete three consecutive years in one World Language. In order to achieve eligibility for AP World Language courses, a student must demonstrate a consistent commitment to maintaining the target language, with little to no prompting, in the previous levels. Students who cannot maintain communication in the target language during class will not be considered for the AP level, regardless of their earned grades.

Course Level Placement: We encourage students with prior language study to take language placement tests before enrolling. These tests, offered in May, enable us to evaluate each student’s current experience and knowledge to select the course level that best meets his/her needs.

For heritage speakers or advanced proficiency speakers who may wish to demonstrate their proficiency in a second or third language, Archmere Academy strongly encourages students to choose a pathway through testing and acquisition of the Delaware Seal of Multiliteracy. However, there may be students who are also interested in taking an AP exam in their heritage language (Archmere offers AP Chinese, French and Spanish).

In the case of a language that Archmere offers, students who desire to take the AP exam must enroll in at least one year of Archmere language classes in their language. They must take a placement exam to ascertain the appropriate level (potentially Honors 3/4/AP). The AP level may count as an elective.

Highly Trained and Immersed Faculty: Our highly experienced teachers bring a wide range of knowledge and insights to our students. Faculty spend time attending professional conferences and immersion programs, presenting on research and passions, as well as tutoring and organizing school sponsored trips. These trips, both domestic and abroad, offer students first hand experience in the target languages and cultures and enhance our curriculum.

Differentiated Methodology: Meeting the needs of every student: World language classes are taught in the target language using diverse approaches to teach and assess our students. We continuously hone our approaches to meet the varied needs of our learners. Emphasis is placed on communication, both in the classroom and in the global community.

Cultivating Excellence in World Languages and Cultures: Archmere has three active chapters of National Language Honor Societies. Students are selected for membership based upon their superior achievement through the third level of study. They are inducted into the Societies at the Honors Convocation in the spring of each year. All students are welcome to participate in Language Club activities held throughout the year. Student representatives organize a variety of cultural events such as annual fundraisers, holiday parties, picnics, dance lessons and diverse culinary experiences. In addition to the aforementioned opportunities, our department boasts two full immersion exchange programs with schools in France and Spain.

French I

The first-year language courses stress vocabulary, listening comprehension, and speaking. Grammar is integrated into the conversational aspect of the program. Reading and writing are introduced on a controlled basis. As a result of exposure to target language, cooperative learning situations, interactive activities and the use of technology in the classroom, students are able to communicate in controlled conversational situations. Students read simple passages and respond orally or in writing to comprehension-check questions. Oral and written assessments are included in each unit test. The curriculum also provides opportunities for individual and small group graded oral presentations. Students are exposed to several countries or regions where the language is spoken.
French II

The second-year modern language courses continue to emphasize listening comprehension and speaking. Reading and writing skills assume greater emphasis through controlled texts. The four major skills are further developed via the acquisition of vocabulary and the internalization of grammatical patterns. Through the use of the target language, an interactive learning environment, and the use of technology, the students are encouraged to communicate more freely in guided conversation. Further practice is provided through supplemental reading, creative writing and structured paragraphs on topics related to the lesson. With the use of authentic material, students continue to study the history and culture of various countries or regions and to create oral presentations in the target language.
Honors French II

The second-year modern language courses continue to emphasize listening comprehension and speaking. Reading and writing skills assume greater emphasis through controlled texts. The four major skills are further developed via the acquisition of vocabulary and the internalization of grammatical patterns. Through the use of the target language, an interactive learning environment, and the use of technology, the students are encouraged to communicate more freely in guided conversation. Further practice is provided through supplemental reading, creative writing and structured paragraphs on topics related to the lesson. With the use of authentic material, students continue to study the history and culture of various countries or regions and to create oral presentations in the target language. The Honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: French I

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
French III

The third-year modern language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended. Readings include primary text and cultural topics. Greater emphasis is placed on written communication. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multimedia and technology. As a result the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations.

Prerequisite Course: CP or Honors French II

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Honors French III

The third-year modern language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended. Readings include primary text and cultural topics. Greater emphasis is placed on written communication and practical communicative skills. Less emphasis is put on explicit grammar instruction, as grammar is contextualized and integrated into spoken communication. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multimedia and technology. As a result the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations. The Honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: Honors French II

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
French IV

Level IV builds on French skills through practical communication activities. Students will improve grammar and vocabulary while discussing topics in French, giving presentations, writing compositions, and exploring French films and readings. Cultural topics are explored through interactive activities, videos, and technology to enhance student understanding of French-speaking communities.

Prerequisite Course: CP or Honors French III

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Honors French IV

Honors French IV further advances and refines grammar and communicative skills. Acquired knowledge is applied in classroom discussion, presentations, compositions, films and readings (cultural, literary, and contemporary). Level IV students are expected to initiate and maintain communication in French with minimal prompting. They use the target language creatively, applying acquired knowledge and expanding their limits through study of advanced grammar and vocabulary. This course provides students with hands-on experience in cultural topics enhanced by multi-media and technology.

Prerequisite Course: Honors French III

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
AP French

AP French Language and Culture is a college-level course intended for students with a strong foundation in the target language. The course will be taught exclusively in the target language, in order for students to build upon and hone their proficiency in French speaking, writing, listening and reading. Emphasis will be placed on real world application of the target language, and language as it relates to culture in both contemporary and historical contexts. Students will develop their ability to argue and defend a point of view, specifically through their interaction with authentic sources. Themes will include (but are not limited to) contemporary life, global challenges, aesthetics and science/technology, with an interdisciplinary philosophy at the forefront. Students enrolled in the course must have a strong command of the language, and will be able to draw upon previously learned grammatical concepts and vocabulary to expand their use of the target language.

Prerequisite Course: Honors French IV

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Spanish I

The first-year language courses stress vocabulary, listening comprehension, and speaking. Grammar is integrated into the conversational aspect of the program. Reading and writing are introduced on a controlled basis. As a result of exposure to target language, cooperative learning situations, interactive activities and the use of technology in the classroom, students are able to communicate in controlled conversational situations. Students read simple passages and respond orally or in writing to comprehension-check questions. Oral and written assessments are included in each unit test. The curriculum also provides opportunities for individual and small group graded oral presentations. Students are exposed to several countries or regions where the language is spoken.
Honors Spanish II

The second-year modern language courses continue to emphasize listening comprehension and speaking. Reading and writing skills assume greater emphasis through controlled texts. The four major skills are further developed via the acquisition of vocabulary and the internalization of grammatical patterns. Through the use of the target language, an interactive learning environment, and the use of technology, the students are encouraged to communicate more freely in guided conversation. Further practice is provided through supplemental reading, creative writing and structured paragraphs on topics related to the lesson. With the use of authentic material, students continue to study the history and culture of various countries or regions and to create oral presentations in the target language. The Honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: Spanish I

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Spanish II

The second-year modern language courses continue to emphasize listening comprehension and speaking. Reading and writing skills assume greater emphasis through controlled texts. The four major skills are further developed via the acquisition of vocabulary and the internalization of grammatical patterns. Through the use of the target language, an interactive learning environment, and the use of technology, the students are encouraged to communicate more freely in guided conversation. Further practice is provided through supplemental reading, creative writing and structured paragraphs on topics related to the lesson. With the use of authentic material, students continue to study the history and culture of various countries or regions and to create oral presentations in the target language.

Prerequisite Course: Spanish I

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Spanish III

The third-year modern language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended. Readings include primary text and cultural topics. Greater emphasis is placed on written communication. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multimedia and technology. As a result the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations.

Prerequisite Course: Spanish II

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Honors Spanish III

The third-year modern language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended. Readings include primary text and cultural topics. Greater emphasis is placed on written communication and practical communicative skills. Less emphasis is put on explicit grammar instruction, as grammar is contextualized and integrated into spoken communication. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multimedia and technology. As a result the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations. The Honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: CP or Honors Spanish II

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Spanish IV

Level IV further advances and refines grammar and communicative skills. Acquired knowledge is applied in classroom discussions, presentations, compositions, films, and readings. Level IV students are expected to initiate and maintain communication in the target language with minimal prompting. They use the target language creatively, applying acquired knowledge and expanding their limits through the study of advanced grammar and vocabulary. This course provides students with hands-on experience in cultural topics enhanced by multimedia and technology.

Prerequisite Course: CP or Honors Spanish III

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Honors Spanish IV

Level IV further advances and refines grammar and communicative skills as well as exploration of cultures through literature, music, and film. Acquired knowledge is applied in classroom discussion, presentations, compositions, and readings. Level IV students are expected to initiate and maintain communication in the target language with minimal prompting. They use the target language creatively, applying acquired knowledge and expanding their limits through study of advanced grammar and vocabulary. Less emphasis is put on explicit grammar instruction, as grammar is contextualized and integrated into spoken communication. This course provides students with hands-on experience in cultural topics enhanced by multimedia and technology. The honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: Honors Spanish III

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
AP Spanish

AP Spanish Language and Culture is a college-level course intended for students with a strong foundation in the target language. The course will be taught exclusively in the target language, in order for students to build upon and hone their proficiency in Spanish speaking, writing, listening and reading. Emphasis will be placed on real world application of the target language, and language as it relates to culture in both contemporary and historical contexts. Students will develop their ability to argue and defend a point of view, specifically through their interaction with authentic sources. Themes will include (but are not limited to) contemporary life, global challenges, aesthetics and science/technology, with an interdisciplinary philosophy at the forefront. Students enrolled in the course must have a strong command of the language, and will be able to draw upon previously learned grammatical concepts and vocabulary to expand their use of the target language. Students must maintain a B average to remain in the AP course.

Prerequisite Course: Honors Spanish IV

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Mandarin I

The first-year language courses stress vocabulary, listening comprehension, and speaking. Students are exposed to approximately 420 Chinese characters and associated phrases, as well as the essential vocabulary and grammar needed to develop proper pronunciation, and listening, reading, and writing skills for basic communication and comprehension. As a result of exposure to the targetlanguage, cooperative learning situations, interactive activities and the use of technology in the classroom, students are able to communicate in controlled conversational situations. Students read simple passages and respond orally or in writing to comprehension-check questions. Oral and written assessments are included in each unit test. The curriculum also provides opportunities for individual and small group graded oral presentations. Students are exposed to several countries or regions where the language is spoken.
Mandarin II

The third-year language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended and greater emphasis is placed on written communication. Students will be required to study and summarize the material related to each unit, in both oral and written forms in Mandarin Chinese. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multi-media, technology, and reading exercises. Readings include Chinese literature, primary text, and cultural topics. As a result, the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner.

Prerequisite Course: CP or Honors Mandarin II

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Honors Mandarin II

The second-year modern language courses continue to emphasize listening comprehension and speaking. Reading and writing skills assume greater emphasis through controlled texts. The four major skills are further developed via the acquisition of vocabulary and the internalization of grammatical patterns. Through the use of the target language, an interactive learning environment, and the use of technology, the students are encouraged to communicate more freely in guided conversation. Further practice is provided through supplemental reading, creative writing and structured paragraphs on topics related to the lesson. With the use of authentic material, students continue to study the culture and to create oral presentations in the target language. The Honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: Mandarin I

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Mandarin III

The third year language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended and greater emphasis is placed on written communication. Students will be required to study and summarize the material related to each unit, in both oral and written forms in Mandarin Chinese. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multi media, technology, and reading exercises. Readings include literature, primary text, and cultural topics. As a result, the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner.
Honors Mandarin III

The third-year language courses continue the study of grammar and vocabulary as a means of expanding communication skills, but at an advanced level. Level III students deepen their appreciation of culture through individual and group research and presentations. The range of listening comprehension activities is extended and greater emphasis is placed on written communication. Students will be required to study and summarize the material related to each unit, in both oral and written forms in Mandarin Chinese. All skills are strengthened through exposure to multi-media, technology, and reading exercises. Readings include Chinese literature, primary text, and cultural topics. As a result, the intermediate student is a more sophisticated and independent learner. The Honors courses provide additional opportunities for exploration of literature and culture.

Prerequisite Course: Honors Mandarin II

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Honors Mandarin IV

Honors Level IV further advances and refines grammar and communicative skills. Acquired knowledge is applied in classroom discussion, presentations, compositions, and readings (cultural, literary, and contemporary). Level IV students are expected to initiate and maintain communication with minimal prompting. They use the target language creatively, applying acquired knowledge and expanding their limits through the study of advanced grammar and vocabulary. This course provides students with hands-on experience in cultural topics enhanced by multimedia and technology.

Prerequisite Course: Honors Mandarin III

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
AP Chinese

AP Chinese Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate-level (fourth semester) college/university course in Mandarin Chinese. The course in Mandarin Chinese emphasizes communication (understanding and being understood by others) by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations. This includes vocabulary usage, language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. The AP Chinese Language and Culture course strives not to overemphasize grammatical accuracy at the expense of communication. The course is taught almost exclusively in Chinese to facilitate the study of language and culture. The AP Chinese Language and Culture course engages students in exploring the culture in both contemporary and historical contexts. The course aligns with ACTFL Culture Standards and develops students’ awareness and appreciation of cultural Products, e.g., tools, books, music, laws, conventions, and institutions. Practices, e.g., patterns of social interactions within a culture. Perspective, e.g., values, attitudes, and assumptions.

Prerequisite Course: Honors Mandarin IV

Approval Standard: Teacher approval is required to enroll in this course and will be determined by 1) student performance on major assessments and active engagement in classroom activities, with emphasis on the second semester and 2) the consistent and independent work ethic necessary to succeed in an advanced-level course.
Cultural Perspectives

How do you learn culture? What makes certain practices taboo and others universal? In Cultural Perspectives, students will use the tools of social anthropologists to discover how language, traditions, greetings, colonization, media, and clothing mirror and transform culture. Through discussion with guest speakers from various continents and critical analysis of films, articles, artifacts, chocolate, and a classic fairy tale, students will emerge with a deeper understanding of their own culture and what it means to be global citizens. This course challenges Auks to discover the realities of studying, working, volunteering and living in an interconnected world. Using the tools they have acquired, students will design a capstone project showcasing their respect, understanding and appreciation for the commonalities and differences that we all share as citizens of the world.
Cultural Geography

Students will discover unique aspects of the different cultural regions of the world with exposure to geography, climate, architecture, clothing, food, language, and more. Through discussion, lecture, analysis of written texts and audio visual materials, map analysis, and taste testing, students will learn to interpret statistics and data in graphic and written form and compare and contrast different elements of cultural expression, including their own cultures. The course will culminate in a presentation of a culture of the student's choice. This course aims to prepare students for every good work by teaching them cross-cultural skills, preparing them to interact effectively with people from around the world, and engaging them in higher level thinking/discourse on countries and cultures outside of their own.

World Languages & Cultures

Select a Department

Faculty