- Syosset Central School Dist
- World Languages
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WORLD LANGUAGES
Coordinator of World Language - Dr. David Balsamo, (516) 364-5751, dbalsamo@syossetschools.org

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In addition to developing communication skills in another language, Syosset’s World Language Department works to inspire joy, cultural literacy and global awareness in our students. Learners build proficiency in the target languages and become better communicators in English, as well. Teachers create environments and experiences that engage students in the work of language learning. We encourage the ongoing development of proficiency, from the novice through advanced levels. We hope to inspire our students to be lifelong learners of the target languages.
Syosset’s World Language Department creates opportunities for students to use their language skills in real-world contexts. We offer a breadth of language choices, with pathways to success for all learners. Teachers lead efforts to collaborate and grow our program, along with support from administrators, the community and parents. Our instruction and assessments align with our vision.
The World Languages program at Syosset follows the New York State syllabus for Languages Other Than English and the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) World Readiness Standards and Proficiency Guidelines. The New York State curriculum includes three checkpoints along the proficiency continuum. Checkpoints A (8th grade), B (10th grade), and C (12th grade). Students’ skills build as they progress from one level to the next.
Studying a World Language is a critical part of a student’s high school academic experience and an important part of being an educated global citizen. It is also noted that studying a foreign language throughout high school is an essential part of a developing a favorable profile for college admissions. Taking a language class during all four years of high school is as important as consistently studying any other core discipline. Since language learning is cumulative in nature, it is best to study the same language throughout high school and beyond. Students choose among studying Chinese, French, Italian or Spanish beginning in 6th grade. In general, students continue in the same language at the high school. Switching to a different language requires the approval of the World Language Coordinator.
World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages
ACTFL Performance Descriptors for Language Learners
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NYS Regents Diploma Requirements
One (1) high school credit is earned by passing the Checkpoint A Exam at the end of the eighth grade. If a student does not take the Checkpoint A Exam, he/she must pass one year of a high school World Language in order to meet minimum graduation requirements.
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NYS Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation Requirements
Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation candidates must successfully complete a sequence of 3 units of credit AND pass a Checkpoint B Exam in a World Language, which is given at the end of Level 3 of each language.
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Studying Multiple Languages
We also offer the following languages (in addition to French, Italian and Spanish): American Sign Language (ASL), Japanese, Latin, Mandarin Chinese (for seniors only), and Russian. Many students choose to study multiple languages at Syosset High School by adding one of the above languages to their program. Studying multiple languages provides an even broader linguistic experience to students and is viewed favorably in the college admissions process.
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New York State Seal of Biliteracy
Students who attain an intermediate-high level of proficiency in a world language and English may be eligible for the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSOB), which is part of a national effort to recognize students who are literate in English plus another language. The seal is placed on a student’s graduation diploma and it indicates their language skills to colleges and employers. Students who are candidates for the NYSSOB demonstrate their skills in a number of ways, including a project which is completed during senior year. This is a wonderful goal to work toward!
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Final Examinations
Course final examinations or alternative assessment evaluations are given in all courses other than Level 3 courses which culminate with a Checkpoint B Exam.
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Honors Level World Language Courses
Honors-level language courses are demanding and meant for students who are highly motivated language learners. Honors coursework requires students to work well independently, be intrinsically motivated, and dedicate time and effort outside of class. Honors courses are accelerated, meaning students learn the entire Level 2 curriculum in 9th grade and the entire Level 3 curriculum in 10th grade. Students registering for French, Spanish or Italian 2 Honors in 9th grade, should have excellent grades, and their teacher’s recommendation. Continuing in the program requires consistent effort, sustained motivation and ongoing interest in the target language and culture.
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Advanced Placement Courses
Advanced Placement courses in French, Spanish and Italian are taken in 12th grade by students enrolled in the Honors Program. Students are reminded that A.P. courses are very demanding. All students enrolled in an A.P. course are required to pay for and take the corresponding A.P. examination in May.
