World Languages
If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart. – Nelson Mandela
About
The World Languages Department at BHS is dedicated to fostering linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding in alignment with the instructional vision of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Our mission is to equip students with the communication skills and cultural competencies necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. We believe that language learning is not just about mastering vocabulary and grammar; it is about opening doors to diverse cultures and perspectives that enrich our students' lives and empower them to engage meaningfully with others.
Our department offers a wide range of courses in Chinese, French, Latin, Portuguese, and Spanish, encouraging students to become proficient speakers and informed global citizens. Through immersive experiences, authentic resources, and interactive learning environments, students develop not only their language skills but also their ability to appreciate and respect cultural diversity. We aim to inspire a lifelong passion for languages and an understanding of the importance of cross-cultural communication in today’s global society.
To graduate, all students must earn at least two credits in the same World Language, which can be fulfilled by any of the languages offered: Chinese, French, Latin, Portuguese, or Spanish. We also provide dual enrollment courses in certain languages, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. Advanced Placement language courses are available as well, further enhancing students' opportunities for academic advancement. Our curriculum is designed to align with the Massachusetts Framework for World Languages, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future academic and professional pursuits in a multilingual world.
Contacts
Cody Small - Department Head / Office 1501
TEACHER / EMAIL | PHONE:
508-790-6445 |
COURSES |
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Ms. Ashling Burke |
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Spanish 2, Spanish 3, AP Spanish |
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Portuguese 1, Portuguese Heritage |
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Spanish 1, Latin 2, Dual Enrollment Latin |
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Latin 1, Latin 2, Latin 3 |
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Spanish 1, Spanish 2 |
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French 1, French 4, AP French |
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French 2, French 3 |
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Spanish 1, Spanish 3, Spanish 4 |
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Spanish 2, French 2 |
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Spanish 3 |
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Spanish 1, Spanish 2, Heritage Spanish |
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Chinese 1, Chinese 2, Chinese 3, AP Chinese |
Courses
All students need two credits in the same World Language to qualify for graduation and MassCore. Many colleges and universities require three years of study and students are recommended to check language requirements for the college or university of their choice by contacting the admissions office.
Chinese Track
Chinese - Mandarin 1 0514
Grades 8-12 | Unleveled | 1 Credit
Mandarin I stresses a proficiency approach, with primary emphasis on the context and purpose of communication through three modes of communication: Interpersonal; Interpretive; and Presentational. In year one, general customs and cultures will be introduced in class. Students will gain authentic experience interacting with Chinese natives and grow language skills through student-centered activities. Students will be able to greet, introduce themselves and others, state likes and dislikes and hold short conversations by the end of the year. They will also be able to recognize and write 100-150 simple characters. A passing grade in this course will indicate a Novice Mid level of proficiency.
Chinese - Mandarin 2 0517
Grades 9-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chinese - Mandarin I
This course intensifies previous study to continue the development of language study and cultural understandings. Students will continue to practice language based on the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive and presentational. Students will be able to communicate about appearance, clothes, sports, colors and food, describe their daily lives, their surrounding environments and their community. They will also be able to recognize 150-250 words, and type them. A passing grade in this course will indicate a Novice High level of proficiency.
Chinese - Mandarin 3 0577
Grades 10-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chinese-Mandarin 2
This course expects greater fluency from students through tasks and project-based work. Students will produce more complex language structures and patterns through the three modes of communication. Students will be able to discuss topics more in depth and share their opinions. Students can sustain a conversation on school subjects, locations, directions, weathers and various topics, and grasp about 250-350 words. A passing grade in this course will indicate an Intermediate Low level of proficiency.
Chinese - Mandarin 4 0579
Grades 11-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chinese-Mandarin 3
The course continues to build proficiency through the three communicative modes. Students will grow proficiency through the examination of current events,travel, history, literature and film, as they manage complex sentence patterns. They will also be able to recognize and type about 350-450 words.
A passing grade in this course will indicate an intermediate Mid level of proficiency.
Advanced Placement Chinese Language and Culture
Grades 11-12 | Advanced Placement | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of Chinese 4 Honors or Chinese 3 Honors and teacher recommendation.
The AP Chinese Language and Culture course in Mandarin Chinese emphasizes communication (understanding and being understood by others) by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational skills 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. All students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP exam.
French Track
French 1
Grades 8-12 | Unleveled | 1 Credit
From the first day in class students will be immersed in French as they develop the skills needed to speak, write and understand the language at a novice level with topics about daily life such as: weather, time, greetings, friends, school, family, food and hobbies. Students will also begin to explore places where French is spoken and learn about different cultures. A passing grade in this course will indicate at least Novice Mid level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of French.
French 2
Grades 9-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of French I.
Students will expand their skills to speak, write and understand French and progress from Novice Mid proficiency to Novice High, as they learn about shopping, travel, food and dining out, and daily routines. Students will continue to explore the French speaking world. A passing grade in this course will indicate at least Novice High level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of French.
French 2
Grades 9-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of French 1 and teacher recommendation.
Students will expand their skills to speak, write and understand French and progress from Novice Mid proficiency to Novice High, as they learn about food and dining out, daily activities, and childhood. In this course students will be able to communicate about the present and the past and they will continue to explore the French speaking world. This course moves at a faster pace than French 2 college prep. A passing grade in this course will indicate at least Novice High level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of French.
French 3
Grades 10-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French 2.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand French and progress from Novice High proficiency to Intermediate Low, as they learn about shopping, travel, food and dining out, daily routines, and the future. Students will be expected to communicate in the present, past, and future tenses. Students will continue to explore the French-speaking world. A passing grade in this course indicates at least Intermediate Low level of proficiency.
French 3
Grades 10-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French 2 Honors.
Students will expand their speaking, writing and comprehension skills in French and progress from Novice High proficiency to Intermediate Low, as they learn about shopping, travel, food, dining out, daily routines, and the future. Students will be expected to communicate in the present, past, and future tenses and will continue to explore the French-speaking world. A passing grade in this course will indicate at least Intermediate Low level of proficiency.
French 4
Grades 11-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French 3.
Students will continue to grow their proficiency in French by exploring French culture and language through Francophone art, music, literature and current events. A passing grade in this course will indicate at least Intermediate Low proficiency.
French 4
Grades 11-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French 3 Honors.
Students will continue to grow their proficiency at an intermediate level and will also explore further topics in French culture. Selections of French literature will be read. Further emphasis will also be given to speaking and listening comprehension skills. By the end of the year students will be able to communicate about cultural themes and personally relevant topics.
Advanced Placement French Language and Culture
Grades 11-12 | Advanced Placement | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of French 4 Honors or French 3 Honors with teacher recommendation.
AP French Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate level college course in French. Students cultivate their understanding of French language and culture by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations as they explore concepts related to family and community, personal and public identity, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, contemporary life, and global challenges. All students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP exam.
French: The Francophone World
Grades 11-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: successful completion of AP French or French 4 H or concurrent enrollment in AP French.
In this course students will grow their communicative skills through projects, current events, literature, film, music, and art. By the end of the course students will have explored the historic and cultural influences of the French in North America, West Africa and the Caribbean.
Latin Track
Latin 1
Grades 8-12 | Unleveled | 1 Credit
This course introduces the Latin language through the interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes.
Students will learn the basics of Latin grammar and vocabulary through a thematic look at what life was like for the Romans. Students will develop skills in reading comprehension and translation through hands-on activities and student-centered tasks. A passing grade in this course will indicate Novice High level of proficiency.
Latin 2
Grades 9-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Latin I.
This course continues instruction in the Latin language through the interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes. This continues the format begun in Latin I with a continual presentation of the fundamentals of Latin grammar and acquisition of vocabulary needed to read or translate adapted versions of Latin authors. This class is conducted in English but there will be an increasing emphasis on responding, thinking and writing in Latin. There will be a continuation of discussions about Roman culture, history, and classical mythology. A passing grade in this course will indicate Novice High level of proficiency.
Latin 2
Grades 9-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of Latin I.
This course continues instruction in the Latin language through the interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes. Students will deepen their proficiency with Latin grammar and vocabulary through a thematic look at what life was like for the Romans. They will strengthen skills in reading comprehension and translation through hands-on activities and student centered work. A passing grade in this course will indicate Intermediate Low level of proficiency.
Latin 3
Grades 10-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Latin 2 Honors.
This course will focus on adapted and authentic Roman literature while continuing the study of vocabulary and grammar begun in the first year. Readings will include a survey of the Hercules legends, letters of Pliny, and the writings of Republican Romans such as Caesar and Cicero. Students will continue to expand their knowledge of Roman history, mythology and daily life. This course continues instruction in the Latin language through the interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes. Students will deepen their proficiency with Latin grammar and vocabulary through a thematic look at Latin via authentic texts. Students will continue to strengthen skills in reading comprehension and translation through hands-on activities and student-centered work. A passing grade in this course will indicate Intermediate Mid level of proficiency.
Advanced Placement Latin
Grades 11-12 | Advanced Placement | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Latin 3 Honors with teacher recommendation.
AP Latin is equivalent to an upper-intermediate level college course in Latin focusing on the in-depth study of selections from two of the greatest works in Latin literature: Vergil’s Aeneid and Caesar’s Gallic War. Students cultivate their understanding of classics through preparing and translating readings and considering themes in the context of ancient literature as they explore concepts like literary techniques, Roman values, war and empire, leadership, views of non-Romans, history and memory, and human beings and the gods. All students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP exam.
Classics: The Greco-Roman World
Grades 11-12 | Honors | 1 credit
Prerequisite: successful completion of AP Latin or concurrent enrollment in AP Latin.
This course is designed to expose students with advanced Latin skills to both Ancient Greek and the connections between English and Classical languages. Students will explore the history, language and culture of the ancient Greeks and be introduced to the science and art of linguistics, as they use their skills to read and appreciate the epic poetry of Homer.
Portuguese Tracks
Portuguese 1
Grades 8-9 | Unleveled | 1 Credit
Designed to introduce students to Portuguese language and culture, Portuguese I emphasizes basic grammar and syntax, simple vocabulary, and the spoken accent so that students can read, write, speak, and understand the language at a basic level within predictable areas of need, using customary courtesies and conventions. Portuguese culture is introduced through the art, literature, customs, and history of Portuguese-speaking peoples. A passing grade in this course will indicate a Novice Mid level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of Portuguese. Portuguese 2 will be offered during the following school year.
Portuguese Heritage 1
Grades 8-9 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Department Head approval.
This course is designed for native Portuguese speakers. Students who study Portuguese Heritage I will learn to communicate effectively in Portuguese through practice and presentation in all four skill areas: reading, writing, listening and speaking. This high level, intensive course is designed to develop and refine linguistic and cultural skills while formally advancing students’ knowledge of reading comprehension strategies, extended vocabulary, mechanics of the language and grammatical structures. The goal of the heritage language courses is to provide students the opportunity to become fully bilingual and biliterate in today’s global environment.
Portuguese Heritage 2
Grades 9-10 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Portuguese Heritage 1.
This course is designed for native Portuguese speakers. Students who study Portuguese Heritage II will continue to deepen their skills to communicate effectively in Portuguese through practice and presentation in all four skill areas: reading, writing, listening and speaking. This high level, intensive course is designed to strengthen students’ writing skills, develop and refine linguistic and cultural skills while formally advancing students’ knowledge of extended vocabulary, mechanics of the language and grammatical structures. The goal of the heritage courses is to provide students the opportunity to become fully bilingual and biliterate in today’s global environment.
Spanish Tracks
Spanish 1
Grades 8-12 | Unleveled | 1 Credit
From the first day in class students will be immersed in Spanish as they develop the skills needed to speak, write and understand the language at a novice level about topics in daily life such as: the weather, time, greetings, friends, school, family, food, and hobbies. Students will also begin to explore places where Spanish is spoken and learn about various Spanish-speaking cultures. A passing grade in this course will indicate a Novice Mid level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of Spanish
Spanish 2
Grades 9-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish I.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand Spanish and progress from Novice Mid proficiency to Novice High, as they learn about shopping, food and dining out, daily activities, and childhood. In this course students will be able to communicate about the present and begin to communicate in the past. A passing grade in this course will indicate Novice High level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of Spanish.
Spanish 2
Grades 9-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish I and teacher recommendation.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand Spanish and progress from Novice Mid proficiency to Novice High, as they learn about shopping, food and dining out, daily activities, and childhood. In this course students will be able to communicate in the present and past tenses. Students will continue to explore the Spanish speaking world. This course moves at a faster pace than Spanish 2 college prep. A passing grade in this course will indicate Novice High level of proficiency. This course is not designed for native speakers of Spanish.
Spanish 3
Grades 10-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 2.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand Spanish and progress from Novice High proficiency to Intermediate Low, as they learn about topics related to the sustainable development goals developed by the United Nations. Students will continue to explore the Spanish speaking world and experience art, music, food, history and human stories. A passing grade in this course will indicate Intermediate Low level of proficiency.
Spanish 3
Grades 10-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 2 Honors.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand Spanish and progress from Novice High proficiency to Intermediate Low, as they learn about travel, future plans / professions, art and the environment. Students will continue to explore the Spanish speaking world and explore historical events, history and cultural nuances. A passing grade in this course will indicate Intermediate Low level of proficiency.
Spanish 4 Grades 11-12 | College Prep | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 3.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand Spanish and progress from Intermediate Low proficiency to Intermediate Mid and beyond, as they continue to learn about topics related to the sustainable development goals developed by the United Nations. Students will continue to experience products from the Spanish-speaking world and explore topics such as ecotourism, renewable energy sources, water access, and access to education for all. A passing grade in this course will indicate at least Intermediate Mid level of proficiency.
Spanish 4
Grades 11-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 3 Honors.
Students will expand their ability to speak, write and understand Spanish and progress from Intermediate Low proficiency to Intermediate Mid, as they learn about travel, the environment, education, human rights, and current events. Students will continue to explore the Spanish speaking world and explore historical events, history and cultural nuances. A passing grade in this course will indicate Intermediate Mid level of proficiency.
Advanced Placement Spanish Language and Culture
Grades 11-12 | Advanced Placement | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 3 Honors, 4 Honors or Spanish Heritage 1 with teacher recommendation.
AP Spanish Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate level college course in Spanish. Students cultivate their understanding of Spanish language and culture by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations as they explore concepts related to family and communities, personal and public identities, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, contemporary life, and global challenges. All students are required to take the AP exam.
Spanish: The Hispanic World
Grades 11-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: successful completion of AP Spanish, Spanish 4 H or concurrent enrollment in AP Spanish.
This course provides the opportunity to grow students’ proficiency in communication by exploring contemporary culture and history of the Spanish-speaking Diaspora; students will come to an understanding of the linguistic and cultural diversity that can be found throughout the Hispanic world. The class is taught in Spanish and focuses on the learning of the language contextually through the reading of authentic texts, discussions and debates, and the study of culturally significant films. Students will focus on the study of history, food, art, film, geography, linguistic diversity, and literature to gain a social-cultural knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish Heritage 1
Grades 10-12 | Honors | 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Department Head approval.
This course is designed for native and Heritage speakers of Spanish and assumes an ability to converse fluently in Spanish. Students who study Spanish Heritage I will learn to communicate effectively in Spanish through practice and presentation in all four skill areas: reading, writing, listening and speaking. This high level, intensive course is designed to develop and refine linguistic and cultural skills while formally advancing students’ knowledge of extended vocabulary, mechanics of the language and grammatical structures. Hispanic culture and global challenges are among the focus topics of this class.The goal of the heritage language learners’ sequence is to provide students the opportunity to become fully bilingual and biliterate in today’s global environment.
Seal of Biliteracy
Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy
The State Seal of Biliteracy is an award provided by state approved districts that recognizes high school graduates who attain high functional and academic levels of proficiency in English and a world language in recognition of having studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation. Our vision is to help students recognize the value of their academic success and see the tangible benefits of being bilingual. The State Seal of Biliteracy takes the form of a seal that appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.
Benefits
Students who receive the MA State Seal of Biliteracy will be eligible to receive up to 15 college credits at institutions such as UMass Amherst, Bridgewater State, and Cape Cod Community College. Check here or reach out to your school's registrar for more information.
Students entering the workforce or military may be able to receive a digital accreditation of their language abilities. This can be placed onto a resume or email signature and may lead to increased salary or promotion opportunities.
Those interested in education will also be granted a voucher by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to take one Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL) at no cost upon receiving the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy.
Requirements
In order to earn the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy, students must:
- Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English by earning a score of 472 or higher on the Grade 10 ELA MCAS,
- Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in a world language by attaining a minimum score equivalent to Intermediate-High on an assessment approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and
- Satisfy all other graduation requirements.
The Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction is available to students who:
- Earn a score of 501 or higher on the Grade 10 ELA MCAS
- Demonstrate a proficiency level of Advanced Low or higher on a Department-approved assessment, and
- Satisfy all other graduation requirements.