Spanish 2 Syllabus 2021-2022

Brooks School, Department of Languages

Instructor: T. O’Brien
Contact: tobrien@brooksschool.org

Course objective: The goal of this course is to improve Spanish language proficiency in
speaking, reading, listening, and writing skills. Throughout the year students will continue to
develop their language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) in the three modes of
communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. See grading criteria below.
Students will deepen their knowledge and understanding of the language as they dive into the
culture of the Spanish-speaking communities, through the study of geography, literature, history,
music, and film.

Intellectual maturity

A student’s intellectual maturity can influence their success. A self-awareness regarding high
expectations for independent learning is essential.

Text: Descubre 2, Vista Higher Learning

Online Resource: VHL Central
Attendance: Please arrive to class on time and bring all the necessary materials
Cell Phones: No use of cellphones in class, unless instructed otherwise. All students will be
required to store phones in the designated phone storage area.

Grading Criteria per semester: This course operates on points with a weight system rather
than percentages.
Homework: 10 pts- based off completion or accuracy of homework
Quizzes: Points vary (20-40 pts)
Tests: 60+ pts
Presentations: 60+ pts
Graded discussion: 20 pts
Assessments: Points vary
Classwork: 10-15 pts
Essay: Points vary

Homework: Expect to have homework three nights a week.

Homework will be posted in OnBrooks by 4pm the day before class and 1pm on
Wednesdays (competition days).

Quizzes: Quizzes will be frequent and will have to do with current vocabulary sets and
grammar concepts. Expect at least one vocabulary quiz and one grammar quiz per unit.
Tests/Assessments: Tests will cover a unit of vocabulary, grammar, and cultural content. A
project may take the place of a test or be in addition to a test.

Units: Most units will be based on the class textbook, Descubre 2, but there will also be
supplemental materials provided by the instructor in OnBrooks.

Late Work Policy (p. 12 Handbook): An assignment will be counted as late if submitted after
the start of class in which it is due. A 10% deduction will be applied for the first week, a 20%
deduction will be applied for the second week, and 30% for the third week. Beyond the third
week, a student may earn up to a 55% if the assignment is submitted before semester’s close.
A zero will be recorded for the assignment if no work is submitted.

Managing Learning: Students will receive a grade for interpersonal contributions in class in
order to give incentive for participating in class discussion. This includes an effort to speak in
the target language in class, preparedness for class, contributions to the class conversation,
and other skills pertaining to managing your own learning.

Reassessment: There will be no vocabulary or grammar quiz retakes. Formal written

assessments will have the opportunity to be rewritten, and students can earn up to half of the
points that were taken off. Some project-based and rubric-based assessments are subject to
redos after a one-on-one conversation with Ms. O’Brien. Points on tests are subject to change
based on content tested.

Expectations:
1. Be an active participant in class and use the Spanish language.
2. Expect an exam or project at the end of every unit or chapter and a review of material prior to
taking the assessment. Dates will be given in advance.
3. Extra help: Whenever you need it. See me or email me to schedule a time. Take advantage
of this opportunity!
4. Respect yourself and others.