Languages
Atlas-ASM’s official language is English. To be admitted in Grade 1 and onwards, it is necessary to have a certain knowledge of this language.
In addition, the school gives great importance to the knowledge of other languages, as personal cultural enrichment and an extremely important tool for future professional development in a globalized world.
The Spanish Language Program
At Atlas American School, we offer a comprehensive Spanish program tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. Our approach combines dynamic, interactive activities and cooperative learning to ensure students not only learn the language but also engage with the rich cultural heritage of Spain. Cooperative learning is a core method used throughout these activities, promoting teamwork and a deeper understanding of the language and culture. We believe that Spanish culture is a crucial part of the subject and integrate it throughout all year groups.
Lower School (Grades 1–3)
Students are assessed during the first two weeks of the academic year and divided into two groups:
- Spanish as a Second Language (SSL): Designed for non-native speakers.
- Lengua Castellana y Literatura Española: Following the official Spanish curriculum (LOMLOE).
Upper School (Grades 4–5)
Students are divided into three groups based on their proficiency:
- SSL 1: Basic Spanish as a Second Language.
- SSL 2: Intermediate level, tailored to the student’s abilities. Depending on the group, students may transition towards the Lengua curriculum.
- Lengua Castellana y Literatura Española: Follows the Spanish curriculum (LOMLOE).
- In Grades G7 to G10, 7 hours per week are taught (including Spanish Language and History).
- In Grades G11 and G12 (equivalent to 1º & 2º Bachillerato), Spanish Language electives are offered. This offer includes the possibility of taking the AP Course in Spanish Language and Culture (for more information about AP courses: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/)
- In grade 12, we also offer courses in Spanish to prepare for the PEC-UNED exam, for those students who wish to apply to Public Universities in Spain. More info at https://unedasiss.uned.es/home
Special Events in the Spanish Program
To enrich students’ understanding of the Spanish language and culture, we celebrate several important days throughout the academic year. These events highlight various aspects of Spanish and Andalusian culture, providing students with hands-on learning experiences.
Día de Andalucía – February 28th
This celebration focuses on developing an appreciation for Andalusian culture, history, and heritage. Students will explore the provinces of Andalucía, learn about its famous landmarks, and enjoy traditional foods during our Andalusian breakfast. Students are welcome to wear traditional flamenco attire as part of the festivities.
Book Day – April 23rd
Book Day is a key event in Spanish schools, promoting the love of reading and honoring the legacy of great writers like Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare. The focus of celebrating this day is to foster students’ enthusiasm for literature.
French Language Program
Atlas ASM offers an intensive French program starting in Grade 3.
Grades 3 & 4
In this exciting French class, students will embark on a fun-filled journey to discover a new language and culture. With 2 hours per week, our young learners will immerse themselves in French through engaging activities such as learning songs, playing games, and practicing basic vocabulary and phrases. The focus will be on making the learning process enjoyable and interactive, allowing students to naturally pick up the language while exploring different aspects of French culture. Through games and music, they will develop listening, speaking, and reading skills, building a solid foundation in French while having a great time!
Grades 5 & 6
In this dynamic French class, students will dive deeper into the language and culture, meeting for 3 hours per week. Grouped according to their level of knowledge, students will engage in project-based learning with a strong emphasis on developing speaking skills. Through interactive activities, regular games, and class discussions, students will grow in confidence while practicing vocabulary and conversational French.
Throughout the year, we will explore various elements of French culture such as La Saint-Nicolas, Noël en France, La Chandeleur, and La Semaine de la Francophonie, providing students with a rich cultural context. Our goal is to make learning both educational and enjoyable, while fostering a genuine passion for French language and culture!
Grades 7 & 8
This engaging French class, held 4 hours per week, is designed to cater to the diverse levels of students’ knowledge. Grouped accordingly, students will participate in project-based learning that encourages creativity and practical use of the language. We emphasize real-world communication skills by tailoring lessons to the interests of young learners, making the experience both dynamic and relevant to their lives.
Interactive activities and collaborative projects will foster a lively classroom environment, encouraging students to express themselves and engage with the French language on a deeper level. The course nurtures confidence in speaking and comprehension while also offering a deeper understanding of French culture and its influence globally.
High School French Classes
Our 4-hour-per-week French classes offer a comprehensive exploration of French language and society, tailored to students’ levels of proficiency. Students will dive into contemporary French culture, politics, and the media landscape. Whether beginners or advanced learners, students will gain meaningful insights into the vibrant world of French media and how it shapes public opinion.
Our courses are project-based and combine reading, discussions, analysis, and multimedia resources to engage students with various themes, such as current events, social issues, and cultural dynamics. Through this immersive approach, students will develop their language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of French society and its global relevance.
In Grade 11, students can choose between French ab initio, French B Standard Level (SL), and French B Higher Level (HL).
Atlas-ASM’s official language is English. To be admitted in Grade 1 and onwards, it is necessary to have a certain knowledge of this language.
In addition, the school gives great importance to the knowledge of other languages, as personal cultural enrichment and an extremely important tool for future professional development in a globalized world.
