-

would you like your child to learn a different language?

Beginning in the 6th grade, middle school students will be able to select their language of study.

We will continue to offer live, in-person instruction in Spanish. However, students who wish to select a different language of study will have the opportunity to learn a language through virtual and small-group coursework provided by Rosetta Stone and Sign-It, in place of Spanish.

Throughout the year, Language Lab students complete projects researching the history, culture, literature, and art of one of the countries where the language they are studying is spoken. For example, last year the students chose a famous writer, poet, or philosopher to research. They then created a slide show containing interesting facts about their writer’s life, most famous works, and their influence. During grace period, each student presented their project to their peers, who graded them on the basis of clarity and creativity of the presentation and knowledge
of the subject. 

Other projects included poster presentations and simple lessons for younger grades. The posters were on topics such as St. Joan of Arc, the Pantheon, the different regions of Italy, the Napoleonic Wars, and Venice Carnival. Even pre-K students enjoyed learning how to count to 10 in Latin. This year, our students learning Italian and Latin will be doing presentations on culture and art at the St. Pius X Italian Festival in October.

When will students attend the Language Lab?

Students who select an alternative language of study will report to the Language Lab at the time they would otherwise be taking Spanish.

How will they learn their language of choice?

Rosetta Stone and Sign-It are virtual programs. Students will have the benefit of in-person, small-group instruction to support their on-line learning.

Rosetta Stone provides the most advanced voice-recognition program, and students will use a microphone and headset during the class period. Mrs. Leone, who is fluent in over four languages, will assist students with short lessons and pronunciation/reading support.

Students who select American Sign Language will have the opportunity to interact with a sign language instructor multiple times throughout the month during their language class, but will be utilizing a virtual program, Sign-It, for most class periods.

The language lab is not a fit for every student. It requires self-motivation and an ability to seek answers to questions that a live instructor might normally provide. Remote language learning also requires genuine excitement about acquiring a new language.

Which languages will my child be able to study?

1. French
2. German
3. Italian
4. Latin
5. Russian
6. American Sign Language (ASL)

(While Spanish is offered by Rosetta Stone, it will not be a Language Lab option. Students who wish to study Spanish will continue the traditional course of study with live instruction at the school.)

How will students be graded?

Sign-It and Rosetta Stone provide benchmark assessment scores. Lesson completion, quizzes, and exams will form the basis of grades in addition to assigned activities. In order to do well, students must dedicate time to independent practice at home. 20 minutes of independent practice, 3-4 days a week is recommended. Students will be able to access their Rosetta Stone and Sign-It accounts from home. The use of language learning supplemental books and/or free apps such as Duo Lingo is encouraged.

May my child switch from Language Lab back to Spanish mid-year? 
May he or she switch languages while in the Lab?

Students who select the Language Lab option will be placed in the Lab for the entirety of the school year. They may not move from the Language Lab back into Spanish once the school year has started. Similarly, once they begin a language they may not switch to a different language during the school year. It is important to preview Rosetta Stone and Sign-It on the web prior to registration to be sure these learning platforms are well suited to the way your child learns.

What if my child receives support through Academic Enrichment during what would have been their Spanish class?

You must reach out to Lisa Sullivan and Sigrid Couch to discuss alternative options for pullout if you wish for your child to participate in the Language Lab.

Is there a fee?

Yes. In order to provide licenses and equipment for all students, there is a separate, nonrefundable $250 fee for the Language Lab that covers the full year of Language Lab learning.

Registration Information

Please click here to register your student for the Language Lab for the 2023-2024 school year and pay the licensing fee.
We are proud to support global learners, and to be able to offer this option to middle school students. For questions, please contact Antonette Aguilera at aaguilera@spxschool.com or Elena Leone at eleone@spxschool.com.