• 8th to 9th Grade Transition Q&A

    1.  What World Language options in 9th grade, if I have had success in middle school?

    Since learning a language requires many years of study, most students continue in the same language through 12th grade.  This is the best option for building language proficiency.  In addition to Chinese, French, Italian, Korean and Spanish, we offer American Sign Language (ASL), Japanese, Korean and Russian at the high school.  Many Syosset High School students study two (and sometimes even three!) languages at the same time.  You can do this as a 9th grader, if you have time in your schedule.

    2.  What are my options if I have not been successful in middle school world language?

    One option for students who struggle in World Language is Exploring Latin, a course that includes learning about mythology, vocabulary study, and other literacy skills.  Another option may be to take a level one course in  ASL, Japanese, Korean, or Russian. Switching from French, Italian or Spanish to a different language  should be discussed with your guidance counselor or the World Language Coordinator.  Take advantage of this opportunity to learn a language that interests you!

    3.   What is the difference between honors and standard-level courses?

    Learning to communicate in the target language is the goal in both honors and standard level.  Honors classes are perfect for students who have special interest in language learning.  The pace is fast.  Honors is double the material compared to standard.  Teachers do not spend a lot of class time reviewing.  Honors students should spend time studying and preparing for class independently.  Honors level classes are weighted slightly higher in GPA calculations.  In standard classes more time is dedicated to absorbing and practicing each topic.  Your skills will get stronger, whatever the level!

    4. How much homework does each class get?

    Learning a language requires effort, and doing work outside of class part of that.  Homework should be expected in both honors and standard classes.

    5.  Can 9th grade students switch from honors to standard classes, and vice versa?

    Generally, students stay at the same level throughout high school.  You can reach high proficiency levels in both programs by working hard and continuing through 12th grade.  Some students in standard classes take SUPA, a college-level class, in 12th grade.  Your World Language class should challenge you, but feel doable.  It may be possible to switch from honors to regular (and vice versa).  If you are unsure, speak with your teacher about where they think you will be most successful. They know both you and our program, so follow their recommendation.

    6.  How many credits in WL do students need to graduate from high school?

    Most students in Syosset go beyond the minimum New York State graduation requirements and study World Language through 12th grade.  World Language graduation requirements are:

    Regents Diploma:  1 credit,  plus pass a Checkpoint A Exam

    Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation:  3 credits, plus pass a Checkpoint B Exam

    7. What types of assessments does each class do?

    Assessments are similar to those in middle school.  This includes integrated performance assessments, quizzes and tests, writing assignments, speaking activities, and reading. Language learning is cumulative, meaning each step forward depends on what you’ve learned before, so the level of difficulty increases a little bit at a time.

    8. What is the advantage of taking honors?

    Honors students reach high levels of proficiency over the years, may earn the NY State Seal of Biliteracy (a diploma designation recognizing their language skills), and take a college-level course in 12th grade..  Additionally, competitive colleges and universities favor students who take more challenging classes.

    9. Will I be required to speak in the target language?

    Of course!  The way you learn to speak a language is by doing it!  We aim for at least 90% of class time in the target language.  The more the language is used in class, the more you learn.

    10.  Are Chinese 1 or Spanish 1 offered at the high school?

    Chinese 1 and Spanish 1 have not run recently due to insufficient enrollment.  Discuss this option with your guidance counselor, but it would be a good idea to have a backup language in mind.