Commonly asked questions and answers World Languages at WHS Commonly asked questions and answers

What WL classes are offered here? SPANISH Spanish 1 Spanish 2 Spanish 3 Spanish 4 AP Spanish FRENCH French 1 French 2 French 3 French 4

How many classes should I take? Colleges expect at least two years… BUT if you are attending college, it’s best to take FOUR YEARS (That’s right….four years…..WHY??)

Reason #1—College Credit!! You can receive 12-16 FREE college credits for taking WL in high school At any UW college, you will take a placement test that places you in a level of WL study. If you take the class and receive a B or above, you will receive credit for that class and ALL of your previous HS foreign language classes.

How retro credits work UW Eau Claire offers 4-credit French classes French 101= 4 credits French 102= 4 credits French 201= 4 credits French 202= 4 credits I took 4 years of French in HS I tested into French 202, took it and got a B I received NOT 4 credits for French 202, but 16 credits!

Why is getting credit in HS important? College credits are expensive! (12 credits = $2500.00 to $3000.00!) College registration depends on the number of credits you have. Freshmen get to choose classes last. With more credits under your belt, you’ll be a Sophomore after only one SEMESTER in college Most colleges require WL to graduate BUT college classes move much faster (1 semester=1 year here!) Why not take it in high school at a slower pace FOR FREE??

Reason #2--Travel French classes travel to France every two years! (Although you must be in French III or above) Spanish classes will also travel - to Costa Rica this June!

Reason #3—It improves your academic performance! Research shows that students who study world languages score higher in English and Math on standardized tests like the ACT and SAT World language study provides you with mental flexibility, higher critical thinking skills and expanded vocabulary skills that improve your performance in all classes

Reason #4—Job opportunities Many jobs either require or prefer world language proficiency. Why? The US is becoming a more diverse country. While 25% of the world’s population speaks English, 75% DOES NOT! Companies seek people who can attract business, make connections to populations all over the world!

Reason #5—It’s fun! Learn about new cultures and ways of living Try new foods and celebrate new holidays! Listen to different styles of music! Watch films from other countries and cultures Speak in a different language with friends to confuse or annoy others! 

Congratulations! You’ve made an excellent choice to take a foreign language, now stick with it and experience the advantages that French or Spanish can bring to your future!