Foreign Language

At LACS, we believe the study of foreign languages improves a student’s education while providing the foundation for further personal enrichment, scholastic achievement, and future economic opportunities. It also sharpens intellect, teaches reasoning and deduction, and hones in logic. Students who are introduced early to a bilingual world can become proficient over time.

Research shows that learning a second language boosts problem-solving, critical-thinking, and listening skills, as well as improving memory, concentration, and the ability to multitask. Children proficient in other languages show signs of enhanced creativity and mental flexibility. As a result, Spanish is taught in our Elementary, and Middle School. American Sign language is taught in Middle School.

Spanish

Our Middle School Spanish class follows a curriculum that is actually used in many Spanish I high school courses. All of our lessons are enriched with cultural activities and traditions, including art and music. Games, geography, and very fun and engaging special projects and activities are part of the curriculum. Our students participate in a Fifth grade Fashion Show, a Middle School restaurant outing, and various video projects. In Middle School, language options expand to include sign language.

ASL

The Middle School ASL program exposes students to the basics of American Sign Language. Through a combination of the Start ASL offline course and in-person instruction, students learn essential vocabulary, dig deep into proper ASL grammar, and explore Deaf history and culture.Throughout the course, students gain valuable insight into the perspectives, struggles, and victories of the vibrant Deaf community. Students are provided with videos by ASL professionals which enable them to learn the signs correctly and quickly. Games, conversations, and musical presentations offer students opportunities to practice and refine their signing. A highlight for students is a field trip to the California School for the Deaf in Fremont, where they are able to get a firsthand look at Deaf education and interact with a Deaf tour guide.

For more information contact: admissions@lacs.com