Programs

Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) at Columbine

 The objective for SSL students is two-fold.  At each grade level K-5, topics  of instruction are  selected based on the Curriculum Maps in Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics.  Students learn and practice content vocabulary that will expand their knowledge of the Spanish language and allow them to participate in academic discussions in Spanish as their proficiency increases.  Secondly, specific language structures and taught and practiced to increase both listening comprehension and oral communication.  The goal of our program is basic oral fluency by the end of 5th grade.

WHAT SSL IS:

• Academically based, with students evaluated each trimester through an SSL Progress Report (Report Card)
• Concepts presented through fiction and nonfiction text, music, art, and drama, and games
• A supportive and non-threatening environment in which students can practice speaking Spanish apart from native speakers
• 45 minute daily classes (Kindergarten class is 30 minutes)
• Excellent preparation for the bilingual strand in middle school
• FUN !

WHAT SSL IS NOT:

• Dual-immersion
• Bi-literacy.  Students become increasingly bilingual as they progress, but literacy (reading and writing) in Spanish is not formally taught or evaluated

HIGHLIGHTS  FROM SSL 2007-2008

Readers’ Theater

v    3rd grade presented “Seis Calabazas Pequenas” to Kindergarten and 3^rd grade.  All students had speaking roles.

v    4^th and 5^th grades presented “La jornada de Cabeza de Vaca” to all Columbine students, parents, and invited guests.  SSL students and Spanish Literacy students (Native Speakers) combined classes to form the cast for this three-act play.  Nine SSL students had speaking roles, and the remaining students had supporting roles.  All cast members participated in creating scenery and costumes.

Mind Maps

v    1^st grade is currently working on the visual representation of their learning in Spanish about the family (Social Studies Curriculum).

Science and Math

v    2^nd grade is studied Weather in Spanish (in addition to English) and completed individual picture dictionaries and a language experience story using new vocabulary and language structures.

v    Kindergarten is exploring colors, numbers, shapes, and number sense in SSL.