Welcome to the Foreign Language Department

The Foreign Language Department at Concord Middle School provides students with opportunities for intellectual and personal growth through the study of French, Mandarin, and Spanish. Beginning in sixth grade and continuing through eighth grade, students engage in a sequential language program designed to develop proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Our program is culturally immersive, using CDs, DVDs, online activities, songs, and readings to enhance language skills and cultural understanding. Classes are heterogeneously grouped, meeting four times per week in sixth grade and five times per week in seventh and eighth grades. Due to the comprehensive nature of the curriculum, students are expected to commit to their chosen language from the beginning of the school year.

Assessment in the program is multi-faceted, including assignments, participation, and conduct. Assignments involve vocabulary study, writing activities, role plays, and projects. General performance is evaluated through tests, quizzes, listening exercises, and speaking activities. Participation in individual, paired, and group activities is essential, while conduct is assessed based on classroom behavior.

Our middle school program seamlessly integrates with the offerings at Concord-Carlisle High School, where students can continue their language studies in French, Mandarin, or Spanish. Successful completion of our program ensures appropriate placement in high school language courses, guided by teacher recommendations based on student performance and proficiency.

We look forward to supporting your child's language learning journey and cultural exploration.