Academics
Curriculum
Spanish
The Spanish program is an important aspect of the K-6 curriculum and encourages students to gain general exposure and interest in the language and culture of Spanish-speaking countries. It encourages diversity of learning methodologies within a structured curricular framework.
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The linguistic part of the Spanish program is divided into three grade-level groups:
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Grades K-2: Students focus on the phonetic aspect of the language, we learn the different sounds of the language and practice the recognition of letters and their sounds.
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Grades 3-4: Students start with grammatical structures and the written form of the language with the introduction of Libreta, or our Spanish writing journal. In 3rd grade students start their end-of-term Spanish tests that they will have until 6th grade, so it’s easier to measure and keep track of their language learning journey.
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Grades 5-6: Students focus on reading and reading comprehension in the language.
The linguistic component is combined with an out-of-the-class activity to reinforce the content and exposure to the language within a real-life context. Each grade from 2nd through 6th has a field trip related to their curriculum, and K-1 students have a special out-of-class activity at school: usually a theatrical or musical performance at Flag Line in Spanish.
The program is also designed to foster interest in the cultural aspect of the language with big events like Fiesta Latina (a school-wide celebration to honor different Spanish-speaking countries) and El Mundo (a school-wide Spanish magazine that all students create from scratch).
With two full-time Spanish teachers and a teaching assistant, Carlthorp School is committed to teaching Spanish as a way to promote diversity and encourage students to embrace other cultures and traditions. Spanish at Carlthorp School is taught by the teachers and not through purchased technology.
Working closely with the Dean of Academics and the reading teachers, the Spanish teachers have been trained in the methods of the reading workshop and implement the strategies into the curriculum throughout the year.
Established in 1939, Carlthorp School is the oldest independent coeducational day school for grades K-6 located in Santa Monica, California.