Curriculum - Foreign Language
BB&N has a very long tradition of offering its students a wide range of choices of foreign language courses -- French, Latin, Spanish, Russian and Mandarin Chinese. These courses teach not only grammar and vocabulary, but they emphasize the significance of communication, literature and culture. AP language and literature courses are offered to our top level students in French, Latin, & Spanish. And BB&N has long distinguished itself among its peer schools for offering two less commonly taught languages -- Chinese and Russian. One beneficiary of the latter program is the current US Ambassador to Russia, Mr. Alexander Vershbow '70, who learned to speak Russian at BB&N.
Foreign language study enables the student to appreciate other cultures and civilizations through the most fundamental means of communication – the written and spoken word. The department believes that the ability to comprehend a civilization not one's own, be it modern or classical, is invaluable for its humanizing and broadening effects. Knowledge of languages brings students into contact with new ideas and exposes them to a more expansive view of the world.
Special Programs - Exchange and Travel
Travel opportunities for students to participate in foreign cultures, practice foreign languages, appreciate world history, and expand their horizons.
This year's proposed trips are to: China, France, Greece, Russia, and Spain. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Double Language Student
A student who completes seven years or more of language study during grades 9 - 12 qualifies as a Double Language Student. Students pursuing this program study less History or Science to permit this concentration in language.
BB&N Language Scholar
A student who completes study in a primary language to the highest level offered (IV AP, V, VAP depending on the language); completes study in a secondary language to the third level (III) or above; and earns honors level grades (B or above for final grades in every year studied) will be recognized as a BB&N Language Scholar. Language Scholars are expected to continue in their AP classes through the end of senior year and to take the AP examinations. Russian students are expected to participate in national and regional essay writing and Russian speaking contests each year.
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