Foreign Language Enrichment -
Frequently Asked Questions
What languages are offered at the Middle School in the regular curriculum?
First year high school Spanish and Portuguese are offered by PMS in the eighth grade. All students will receive foreign language instruction provided by the district five times a week.
What is Foreign Language Enrichment?
A before and after school program offering foreign language instruction to the students at Portsmouth Middle School, organized and assisted entirely by parent volunteers. The program is cumulative (there are grade level expectations that build upon each other, as students take each level), and is designed for middle school aged children. The enrichment program is independent and not for profit, not part of public education.
When did it begin?
The first foreign language enrichment class was held at PMS in 2006-2007, as an extension of the foreign language enrichment elementary curriculum.
Why?
By popular request, so that children would have an opportunity to learn language during the formative years when language is more easily assimilated and when the greatest brain development benefit can be derived. This enhanced neurological development offers expanded capacity for other subjects in addition to language, with positive lifetime learning consequences.
What languages are offered by Portsmouth Enrichment Incorporated? Chinese and Spanishare offered as Foreign Language Enrichment at PMS before and/or after school.
Why did you pick those languages?
In addition to English, Chinese and Spanish are the most spoken languages worldwide. Learning Chinese is gaining popularity worldwide because China is gaining influence globally. Individuals speaking Chinese have a significant employment advantage.
How much does it cost?
Tuition is $175.00 for 22 classes. A fee may be charged if materials/new books are necessary. Loaner Chinese texts are available. Financial aide is available. Please contact your guidance counselor in confidence.
When are classes held?
Before school classes are held at 7:00 AM. Students are dismissed to their home rooms. After school classes are held after normally scheduled classes (students are dismissed to enrichment classes from their homerooms) and end at 3:30 PM.
Who teaches the Foreign Language Enrichment classes?
Currently, Señora Leoanard teaches Spanish. Gao lao shi teaches Chinese. All teachers have excellent credentials. Substitutes will fill in if the need arises.
I heard there are different levels of language, what’s that about?
Portsmouth elementary school enrichment programs are now entering their fifth year (5 levels) into a 7 year start up process for foreign language, having established up to 5 levels of learning for Spanish and 4 levels for Chinese. Some elementary schools enrichment programs have offered language only to grades 3-5. Each level of foreign language builds upon the previous level. Eventually, we hope to offer 5 cumulative levels corresponding to grades 1-5 and hope to continue to levels 6 and 7 at the Middle School. So level I will be first grade, level II second grade and so on.
Will classes be available if I my child didn't attend at the elementary level? Will there still be an opportunity for them to take foreign language enrichment?
So far, the enrichment program has been able to accommodate many learners, at many levels. For a class to be held, a minimum number of children must sign up to cover costs.
What is expected from my child if he/she attends classes?
Students are expected to be respectful to the instructor, fellow students, and classroom materials. Behavioral problems may result in dismissal from the program. Homework is assigned at all levels. Student’s skills may be assessed close to year end. This assessment is a valuable aide to the teacher, so she/he may confidently continue teaching material that is cumulative in nature, insuring the success of every student. Parents of students demonstrating weakness in the basic skill set as a result of the assessment will be informed and students supported with additional materials, study sessions and an opportunity for reassessment.
How do I know how my child is doing?
If you are wondering about your child’s performance, please ask; send a note, e-mail, or call the school and leave a message. All teachers welcome your inquiry. Additionally, foreign language enrichment coordinators contact information will be provided to you. We’re friendly and approachable.
Can you tell me what day next year a certain class will be held?
The entire schedule is completely determined by how many people sign up. Currently, beginning Chinese is held on Tuesday morning, continuing Chinese on Wednesday morning. Beginning Spanish may be offered in the morning as a result of parent request, continuing Spanish is held on Thursday afternoon. The schedule must be created around other enrichment programs, teacher availability, children’s needs, children taking more than one foreign language and space limitations. Additionally, class sizes are limited and space is available on a first come, first served basis.
Why is the registration fee paid up front?
When a teacher accepts a foreign language position, we enter into a contract for a minimum number of hours of instruction. The registration fee will provide the teacher’s salary. You will be notified of the time/day a class meets as soon as a class meets minimum enrollment. Refunds will be made if 1) the class is not held 2) the class time is not convenient and parents notify the enrichment coordinator by October 10, 2009.
Will PMS make a special section for advanced Spanish students when they reach the eighth grade?
Although the foreign language chair at PMS supports our enrichment program, the decision to hold a separate section of Spanish for high performing students when they reach eighth grade will need the support of upper administration. This year advanced Spanish students entering 8th grade will have an opportunity for independent study utilizing online course content at PMS.
What foreign languages are offered at PHS (Portsmouth High School)?
Spanish, Portuguese, and French are currently offered.
Who should I contact if I have other questions?
Please feel free to contact Cathleen Hickey at 682-2160 or
(please type Foreign Language Enrichment in the subject heading).