WORLD LANGUAGES & ENL
Department Chair
Welcome - World Languages
World Languages
Our World Languages Department aims to provide an immersive language and cultural experience for our students. In order to build global citizens, we seek to continuously enrich our student experiences in language learning through:
- Infusing 21st century skills and best teaching practices to further enhance their interaction with a second or even a third language
- Building cultural fluency by exposure to authentic and relevant resources both inside and outside of the classroom
- Providing a student-centered learning environment that recognizes diversity and encourages self-motivation and interest
- Ensuring we fulfill our students’ diverse learning needs
- Delving into the language culturally, linguistically and grammatically
- Regularly revising and updating our curriculum as it pertains to the Standards for Foreign Language Learning established by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)
We look forward to being part of your child’s language journey!
English as a New Language
Our mission for English as a New Language (ENL) students at Great Neck North Middle School is to be mindful of the unique cultures and experiences that each student contributes to our school community. While celebrating this diversity, our goal is to also incorporate and provide an engaging, immersive and inclusive English language experience for their success in English.
We understand that each child's journey is distinct, and that is why we are able to provide a learning experience tailored to your child's English language acquisition and literacy development. This is done through our individualized program where students receive ENL support and services to promote their success.
We are excited to welcome you and your child to our NMS ENL Family!
Course Descriptions
Why Study World Languages?
Learning another language is undoubtedly one of the best skill sets to attain and implement in life! The choice of which language to learn can also be difficult. At North Middle School, we offer FIVE languages:
Here you will find some highlights for each language and things to consider as you make your ever-important decision on which language to study!
- French Language
- Hebrew Language
- Latin Language
- Mandarin Chinese Language
- Spanish Language
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Language Course Sequence
French Language
Why Study French?
- Is spoken in over 50 countries and 5 continents
- It is the most frequently taught language after English in almost every country in the world
- You already know 15, 000 French words and/or expressions, since over 30% of English vocabulary is borrowed from French
- Advance your future in culinary arts, tourism, history and art
The language of a sophisticated culture!
French Grade 6
In sixth grade, students will begin to build a foundation and a passion for language learning through the four modalities of: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will interact daily in the target language and will develop their vocabulary and grammatical skills for communicative success. Students will also enhance their cultural competence as it is infused in daily lessons and the curriculum.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
French Grade 7
French 7 is a sequential course to sixth grade. Students will continue to build upon their foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in the target language. Previously learned topics are revisited and new topics are also introduced. There is a more in depth look at grammatical structures and vocabulary. Students will continue to learn about the various cultural communities as they pertain to the target language.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
French Grade 8
The successful completion of sixth and seventh grade is a prerequisite to this course. Previously learned topics and additional topics will be introduced. There is great emphasis on the four modalities of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students are expected to demonstrate a measurable degree of communicative competence in the target language. At the conclusion of the course, students will participate in the FLACS Checkpoint A Exam. Upon successful completion of the course and the FLACS Checkpoint A exam, students will earn one high school credit. The cumulative, final average and exam score will be included on the students’ high school transcript.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
1 Unit of High School Credit
Hebrew Language
Why Study Hebrew?
- Lingua franca (common language) of modern Israel
- Prepare to travel or study abroad
- Learn about another culture and people who speak it
- Be different and learn an entirely new alphabet
A language rooted in history!
Hebrew Grade 6
In sixth grade, students will begin to build a foundation and a passion for language learning through the four modalities of: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will interact daily in the target language and will develop their vocabulary and grammatical skills for communicative success. Students will also enhance their cultural competence as it is infused in daily lessons and the curriculum.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Hebrew Grade 7
Hebrew 7 is a sequential course to sixth grade. Students will continue to build upon their foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in the target language. Previously learned topics are revisited and new topics are also introduced. There is a more in depth look at grammatical structures and vocabulary. Students will continue to learn about the various cultural communities as they pertain to the target language.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Hebrew Grade 8
The successful completion of sixth and seventh grade is a prerequisite to this course. Previously learned topics and additional topics will be introduced. There is great emphasis on the four modalities of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students are expected to demonstrate a measurable degree of communicative competence in the target language. At the conclusion of the course, students will participate in the FLACS Checkpoint A Exam. Upon successful completion of the course and the FLACS Checkpoint A exam, students will earn one high school credit. The cumulative, final average and exam score will be included on the students’ high school transcript.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
1 Unit of High School Credit
Latin Language
Why Study Latin?
- Makes learning other languages easier
- Builds your English vocabulary, grammar and literacy skills
- Helps to understand mathematical concepts
- Exposure to ancient Greek and Roman history and mythology
- Gain coding and computer programming skills
A truly intellectual discipline!
Latin 6
In sixth grade, students will be introduced to a thematic study of Latin grammar and vocabulary. Students will interact with the target language through English word etymology, enhancing their reading and writing skills. Students will also build upon their cultural competence of ancient history and its impact on the modern world today.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Latin 7
This is a continuing course in the study of the Latin language. Emphasis is placed on the study and use of Latin grammar and vocabulary for the purpose of developing reading and writing skills in Latin, and vocabulary and grammar skills in English. The class explores various aspects of ancient Rome and Greece: mythology, history and daily life, and the etymology of English words. This course follows Latin 6 which students took in sixth grade.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Latin 8
The successful completion of sixth and seventh grade is a prerequisite to this course. Increased emphasis is placed on Latin grammar, the reading and writing of Latin, and English vocabulary building. There is also increased emphasis on Greek and Roman civilization and their impact on our modern civilization. This course concludes with the students taking the Checkpoint A exam. The final average from this course will be included on the high school transcript and is included in the total cumulative high school average.
1 Unit of High School Credit
Mandarin Chinese Language
Why Study Mandarin?
- The most widely spoken language in the world
- It is one of the oldest cultures, rich in history
- Full of unique traditions
- Speak an international business language
- Improve your artistic skills
Increase your brain power by using both sides of your brain!
Mandarin Chinese Grade 6
In sixth grade, students will begin to build a foundation and a passion for language learning through the four modalities of: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will interact daily in the target language and will develop their vocabulary and grammatical skills for communicative success. Students will also enhance their cultural competence as it is infused in daily lessons and the curriculum.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Mandarin Chinese Grade 7
Mandarin 7 is a sequential course to sixth grade. Students will continue to build upon their foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in the target language. Previously learned topics are revisited and new topics are also introduced. There is a more in depth look at grammatical structures and vocabulary. Students will continue to learn about the various cultural communities as they pertain to the target language.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Mandarin Chinese Grade 8
The successful completion of sixth and seventh grade is a prerequisite to this course. Previously learned topics and additional topics will be introduced. There is great emphasis on the four modalities of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students are expected to demonstrate a measurable degree of communicative competence in the target language. At the conclusion of the course, students will participate in the FLACS Checkpoint A Exam. Upon successful completion of the course and the FLACS Checkpoint A exam, students will earn one high school credit. The cumulative, final average and exam score will be included on the students’ high school transcript.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
1 Unit of High School Credit
Spanish Language
Why Study Spanish?
- The second most commonly spoken language in the United States
- Your knowledge of English will help you to pronounce, spell and more importantly: understand
- Appreciate the vibrant cultures of 21 Spanish-speaking countries around the world
- Make your travel expreriences more exciting and rewarding
- Improve your knowledge and understanding of your own language and culture
Spanish is everywhere!
Spanish Grade 6
In sixth grade, students will begin to build a foundation and a passion for language learning through the four modalities of: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will interact daily in the target language and will develop their vocabulary and grammatical skills for communicative success. Students will also enhance their cultural competence as it is infused in daily lessons and the curriculum.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Spanish Grade 7
Spanish 7 is a sequential course to sixth grade. Students will continue to build upon their foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in the target language. Previously learned topics are revisited and new topics are also introduced. There is a more in depth look at grammatical structures and vocabulary. Students will continue to learn about the various cultural communities as they pertain to the target language.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
Spanish Grade 8
The successful completion of sixth and seventh grade is a prerequisite to this course. Previously learned topics and additional topics will be introduced. There is great emphasis on the four modalities of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students are expected to demonstrate a measurable degree of communicative competence in the target language. At the conclusion of the course, students will participate in the FLACS Checkpoint A Exam. Upon successful completion of the course and the FLACS Checkpoint A exam, students will earn one high school credit. The cumulative, final average and exam score will be included on the students’ high school transcript.
5 Periods Per Week - Full Year
1 Unit of High School Credit
Spanish Grade 8-I
This course is designed for new entrants, students that have not yet had an opportunity to take a language in sixth and seventh grade or require an alternative path to language studies will participate in Spanish 8-1. This is an introductory course. Upon successful completion, students will continue their Spanish language studies in high school for high school credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
(3 years of language study OR 1 year in Grade 8)
NYS Checkpoint A
What languages are offered?
We offer a choice between 5 languages: French, Hebrew, Latin, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Does my child have to take a language in middle school? or What if my child did not take a language in 6th or 7th grade?
Although many students begin the study of a language other than English in sixth grade, it is not a requirement. Therefore, children who have other academic intervention needs may delay the study of a language until the eighth grade, where they will begin Spanish.
Is my child guaranteed their first language choice?
Although we try our best to grant everyone their first choice, it is not always guaranteed. There are many factors that go into scheduling, this is why we ask you to choose up to 3 languages in the event the first language choice can not be accommodated.
Can my child switch to another language next year if s/he does not like it?
No, that is why this is a big decision! Choose the language you are passionate about learning to ensure your dedication, interest and independent success in learning the language.
What if my child is already proficient in the language they are choosing?
All language classes in grade 6 begin at an introductory level and work towards a low-intermediate level by grade 8. In grade 6 students will be expected to learn to read, write, listen and speak in the language. If your child is a heritage learner and can read, write, listen and speak in the language they are thinking about taking, it is strongly recommended they choose another language to study.
What does the middle school language program look like?
We offer a three-year program in Chinese, French, Hebrew, Latin and Spanish with emphasis on the four modalities of listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. In Latin,the emphasis is on translation, grammar, and Latin to English word derivation; there will also be a strong focus on Roman mythology, history, and the daily life of the ancient Romans, as well as the impact of the Greco-Roman world on our modern society. All courses incorporate 21st century skills: communication, critical thinking, creativity and collaboration. There is a communicative approach to language learning, as well as an emphasis on cultural fluency.
What will my child learn over a three-year period?
There are various topics that make up the NYS Checkpoint A curriculum. These topics include: Personal Identification and Information, House and Home, Family Life, Education, Physical Environment, Leisure Activities, Meal-taking/ Food/ Drink, Health and Welfare, Community and Neighborhood, Shopping, Earning A Living, Travel. All of the aforementioned topics will not be learned at once. Some of these topics will be introduced solely in grade 6, while others are introduced for the first time in grade 7 or grade 8. Language is continuously built upon, therefore as students progress through the Checkpoint A program, content will be spiraled from previous years of study.
Language Course Sequence
|
Language |
Middle School |
High School |
|
American Sign Language |
(Not offered) |
I - II - III*- IV |
|
French |
6 - 7 - 8 |
9 - 10* - 11/H - AP I - 9 - 10* - 11/H |
|
Hebrew |
6 - 7 - 8 |
9 - 10 - 11 - 12 I - 9 - 10 - 11 10 - 11 - 12 - Sem |
|
Latin |
6 - 7 - 8 |
9 - 10 - 11 - AP I - 9 - 10 - 11/ H |
|
Spanish |
6 - 7 - 8 6 - 7 - 8 I |
9 - 10* - 11H - AP 9 - 10* - 11 - 12 II - 9 - 10* - 12 |
|
Chinese |
6 - 7 - 8 |
9 - 10* - 11/H - AP I - 9 - 10* - 11/H |
*8th grade courses that have completed the 3-year sequence will take the FLACS Checkpoint A Exam for 1 High School Language Credit at the end of the year.
Courses marked with an asterisk (*) administer a Regents Equivalency Examination at the end of the course
English as a New Language (ENL)
- Mission
- English Language Proficiency Levels
- ENL Course Descriptions
- New York State Testing for ENL
- Parent Information
- Student Information
Mission
Our mission for English as a New Language (ENL) students at Great Neck North Middle School is to be mindful of the unique cultures and experiences that each student contributes to our school community. While celebrating this diversity, our goal is to also incorporate and provide an engaging, immersive and inclusive English language experience for their success in English.
We understand that each child's journey is distinct, and that is why we are able to provide a learning experience tailored to your child's English language acquisition and literacy development. This is done through our individualized program where students receive ENL support and services to promote their success.
We are excited to welcome you and your child to our NMS ENL Family!
English Language Proficiency Levels
Our ENL students are provided with a unique and individualized program according to their English proficiency. English Language Learners are given ENL support in all content areas when possible and appropriate for their needs. This is done through course scheduling, courses provided, assessment accomodations and support from our highly qualified ENL teachers. Please navigate the tabs to gain a better understanding of our ENL program and services.
Entering (Level 1/Beginner)
Entering (Level 1) ENL students are beginners. A student at the Entering level gets the greatest level of support and structures to promote his or her academic language development. They are provided with team-taught English classes as well as a Stand-Alone ENL class.
Emerging (Level 2)
Emerging (Level 2)ENL students are at the low-intermediate level. They are provided with team-taught English classes as well as a Stand-Alone ENL class.
Transitioning (Level 3)
Transitioning (Level 3) ENL students are at the high-intermediate level. They are provided with team-taught English classes as well as a Stand-Alone ENL class.
Expanding (Level 4)
Expanding (Level 4) ENL students are at the advanced level. These students are provided with team-taught English classes for further modifications to meet their English-proficiency levels.
ENL Course Descriptions
Stand Alone
The ENL Stand Alone course is provided to English Language Learners who scored Level 1, 2, or 3 on the NYSITELL or NYSESLAT. The ENL teacher provides content based ENL instruction for the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. There is a great emphasis placed on learning new vocabulary, grammar and American culture.
ENL Integrated
The Integrated English/ENL course is provided to all English Language Learners and Former English Language Learners. The English teacher and ENL teacher differentiate instruction to promote literacy and writing skills.
Social Studies Skills
Social Studies Skills is a combined 7th and 8th grade ENL social studies class that has been modified to meet the students' unique linguistic skills and help foster their English language skills. It is a two year course; the first year concentrates on the settlement of North America by Native Americans to the Civil War and the second year focuses on Reconstruction to the present. American culture and geography are incorporated throughout the curriculum.
New York State Testing for ENL
New York State Identification Test for English Language Learners (NYSITELL)
This assessment is given to new students whose ENL level has not been determined and whose home or primary language is other than English. This exam is given once.
New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT)
This is a listening, speaking, reading, and writing assessment that determines whether ENL students are making progress toward English language proficiency. This exam is given annually.
More detailed information regarding these assessments can be found here.
Parent Information
Please follow the links below in order to navigate and better understand the supports and services provided to your child in our ENL Program.
World Languages Parents Bill of Rights
The New York State Education Department (NYSED) Commissioner Regulations Part 154 provides you – the parents/guardians of English Language Learners (ELLs) – with:
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The right for your children to receive a free public education in the school district where you live, regardless of your or your children’s immigration status (e.g., whether your family members are citizens, immigrants, or undocumented) and the language that you or your children speak.
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The right to enroll your children in school without being asked to provide information or paperwork which may reveal your or your children’s immigration status. You cannot be asked to provide a social security card or number, an immigration visa or visa status, or citizenship documents or citizenship status.
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The right under federal law to have a qualified interpreter/translator in your preferred language for critical interactions with the school district.
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The right to have your children in a Bilingual Education (BE) program when there are 20 or more grade-level students that speak the same home/primary language. [1]
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The right to written notice in English and your preferred language that your children have been identified as ELLs and will be placed in a Bilingual Education or English as a New Language (formerly called English as a Second Language) program. [2]
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The right to a high quality orientation session, provided by your school district, that focuses on state standards, tests, and school expectations for ELLs, as well as the program goals and requirements for Bilingual Education and English as a New Language. This orientation must occur before final school program placement, and must be in your preferred language.
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The right to receive information about your children’s English language development, and also about their home language development if they are in a Bilingual Education program.
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The right to meet with school staff at least once a year, in addition to other generally required meetings, to discuss your children’s overall learning and language development progress.
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The right for your children to be placed in a Bilingual Education or English as a New Language program within 10 days of enrollment, and the right to opt out of a Bilingual Education program. At a minimum, your children must receive English as a New Language instruction.
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The right for your children to transfer to another school in your district that offers Bilingual Education in your language, if your children’s original school does not offer such a program.
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The right for your children to have equal access to all programming and services offered by the school district, appropriate to age and grade level including those required for graduation, and to all school pro- grams available to other students.
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The right for your children to receive all core content instruction, and to learn English and other subjects such as Reading/Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies at the same academic level as all other children. Being entitled to ELL services does not limit the ability to get core content instruction.
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The right for your children to have full access to extracurricular activities (afterschool clubs, sports, etc.). Being entitled to ELL services does not limit the ability to take part in extracurricular activities.
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The right for your children to get support services (e.g., Academic Intervention Services) aligned with any intervention plans that the school/district provides to all students.
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The right to have your children tested yearly to determine their English language progress, and to obtain information about your children’s performance on academic tests, including New York State tests.
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The right to have your children continuously enrolled year to year in a Bilingual Education or English as a New Language program while they remain ELLs.
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The right to contact the New York State Education Department’s Office of Bilingual Education and World Languages if any of the above rights have been violated.
Click here to access the NYSED web page which has the above Parent Bill of Rights translated into 27 different languages.
ENL Key Terms
- ELL: English Language Learner (same as ENL students)
- ENL: English as a New Language
- ESL: English as a Second Language (former term for ENL)
- HLQ: Home Language Questionnaire
- IEP: Individualized Education Program (in Special Education)
- LEP: Limited English Proficiency
- MLL: Multilingual Learners
- NMS: North Middle School
- Integrated/ Team-taught: two or more teachers present in the classroom for student support
Student Information
Dear Students,
Welcome to Great Neck North Middle School and to our ENL Family! You have come to a great, inclusive and supportive place. ENL means English as a New Language (formerly known as ESL or English as a Second Language). So, if you see ENL or ESL, it means the same thing!
Our ENL teachers are Mr. Silva, Ms. Wang and Ms. Ryder. The World Languages and ENL Department Chairperson is Ms. Walsh. We are all here to help you learn and develop your English listening, reading, writing and speaking skills. We will also teach you about American culture, as we learn from you about your unique culture!
Learning a new language is a big challenge and we know it is difficult, but we are here to help you! All of you will receive support from our ENL teachers. It might be with an ENL Stand-alone class (a class just to help you learn English), a co-taught Integrated ENL English class (your English class will have both an English teacher and an ENL teacher to give you additional support) or through extra-help.
Our ENL team is also here to guide you with any questions you might have about North Middle School. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. We know you will soon love Great Neck North Middle School as much as we do. We look forward to working with you!
Sincerely,
World Languages Links
World Languages Teaching Staff
Elita Abraham - Hebrew teacher
Hanna Bokhour - Hebrew teacher
Maria Hartofilis - Latin teacher
Dr. Krisann Johnson- French/Spanish teacher
Sandra Mesonero Marquez, Spanish Teacher
Tanya Montero - Spanish teacher
Franshuas Rodriguez - Spanish teacher
Joanna Ryder - ENL teacher
Ron Silva - ENL teacher
Iris Walsh - Spanish teacher & Department Chair
Lin Wang - Chinese teacher