In addition to Hebrew, Barrack students study a world language: Spanish, French, Latin and/or Arabic. Study begins in the 6th and 7th grades with a trimester exploratory course that introduces basic language concepts via conversation, games and song. In 8th grade, students begin a full-year program designed to focus on the four basic skills of language learning—understanding, speaking, reading and writing—and on the cultural and historical aspects of a particular world language.
Students have the opportunity to study the same language from 8th grade until graduation. As they progress, they become fluent in the world language of their choice and analyze and discuss literature from various genres.
The World Language department has also integrated computer-based material into our curricula. Students listen to language tapes in the technology lab, sharpening their speaking and comprehension skills, and are encouraged to take advantage of beyond the classroom opportunities for language enrichment.
In addition, Barrack students have the opportunity to study for a trimester in Israel and to travel to France and Italy during the summer, fully immersing themselves in the language, culture and history of each country. Spanish speaking students have the opportunity to host peers from the Colegio Tarbut, a sister pluralistic Jewish day school in Argentina whose students visit Barrack each year.
Ray Leven Department Chair