World Languages

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

WORLD LANGUAGES

Travel into our Worlds of Wonder classrooms and you will be transported to France, Spain, and China on any given week. Our youngest Bucs enjoy an exciting introduction to three world languages through the use of puppets, games, songs, and holiday traditions. Students say “bonjour” to French celebrations, “hola” to Spanish cuisine, and “ni hao” to Chinese songs.

This awareness and appreciation for different languages and cultures serves as a building block for world language study at Benjamin.

Students are encouraged to speak as active participants in class, and are empowered to communicate in multiple languages during their time at school. The World Languages curriculum is committed to the preparation of its students for competency in a second language. By the time students graduate from the upper school, they have reached this proficiency of language acquisition and cultural appreciation.

Emily Horgen ‘20, currently a student at Yale University, studied Chinese for eight years prior to high school graduation. Passionate about marine conservation efforts, Horgen was inspired to illustrate and publish a children’s book — in both Mandarin and English — to educate young people at home and abroad about the perils facing sea turtles and the importance of sea turtle conservation in China.

LS Teacher Mme. Arline uses puppets to teach French to WOW students. Mandarin Chinese Teacher Mrs. Wei and WOW student.

Horgen says she is so grateful to have been a part of the incredible Mandarin program in high school.

“Students not only come out of the program with a high level of language proficiency, but they also acquire an appreciation of Chinese culture and history. Ms. Cohen fosters a welcoming learning environment that encourages students to reach their full potential and feel supported by their classmates,” says Horgen.