Spanish Language Sequence – Grades 9–12
Course Overview
Summit’s Spanish program provides a rigorous, immersive path for students to achieve academic fluency in the Spanish language and prepare for college-level language tasks. Spanning beginner to advanced levels, the four-year sequence aligns with CEFR and ACTFL proficiency targets and culminates in the AP Spanish Language & Culture course. Instruction emphasizes communication, analysis, and authentic cultural literacy across the Spanish-speaking world.
Upon completion of this sequence, students are prepared to reach the CEFR C1 level — a recognized threshold for academic and professional fluency in Spanish. This level satisfies the language admission requirement for most universities in Spain and Latin America and prepares students for the DELE C1 (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) certification. It also ensures readiness for AP Spanish Language & Culture success, placing students in a competitive position for advanced standing in college language programs.
Course Progression
| Grade | Course | Focus Areas | Target Proficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 9 | Spanish 1 |
Present tense, basic expressions, personal identity, school, family Introduction to Hispanic cultures and customs |
ACTFL Novice High / CEFR A1–A2 |
| Grade 10 | Spanish 2 |
Preterite and imperfect tenses, everyday communication, travel, food Cultural exploration of Spanish-speaking regions |
ACTFL Intermediate Low / CEFR A2–B1 |
| Grade 11 | Spanish 3 Honors |
Subjunctive mood, compound tenses, argumentative writing, social topics Comparative analysis of cultural and societal norms |
ACTFL Intermediate Mid / CEFR B1 |
| Grade 12 | Spanish 4 Honors |
Idiomatic expressions, literary analysis, formal writing, oral presentations Global issues, identity, and historical perspectives in the Hispanic world |
ACTFL Intermediate High / CEFR B2 |
| Grade 12 | AP Spanish Language & Culture |
Full alignment with College Board’s six AP themes and exam structure Advanced-level interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational tasks |
ACTFL Advanced Low / CEFR B2–C1 |
Instructional Methods
Instruction is conducted primarily in Spanish and follows a communicative, content-rich approach. Students engage with authentic resources including articles, essays, news, podcasts, film, and literature. Emphasis is placed on meaningful language use, cultural comparison, and critical thinking. All courses integrate project-based learning, peer interaction, formal writing, and exam-style practice aligned with AP and CEFR expectations.
Assessment & Grading
| Assessment Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Speaking & Listening Tasks | 30% |
| Reading & Writing Assignments | 25% |
| Vocabulary & Grammar Quizzes | 15% |
| Cultural Projects | 15% |
| Participation & Homework | 15% |
Academic Vocabulary & Key Concepts
| Category | Key Terms | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar Structures | Subjunctive, preterite vs. imperfect, passive voice, relative clauses | Used in formal writing, discussions, and AP essay development |
| Thematic Content | Global issues, identity, families, education, technology, traditions | Explored through authentic media and AP cultural comparisons |
| Exam Readiness | AP Spanish, DELE B2–C1, university placement exams | Preparation through interpretive reading, essay writing, speaking tasks |