For Prospective Families
Modern Language
Ancient Roots, Modern Connections
The Modern Languages Department offers courses in Arabic, Chinese, French, Italian, and Spanish, from Level I through Advanced Placement. The curriculum follows a “backward design” model aligned with ACTFL Guidelines and the National Standards for Foreign Language Teaching. Instruction emphasizes Brunswick’s three Cs: Communication (with a focus on speaking), Cultures (particularly contemporary), and Curiosity, fostering lifelong learners.
Classes are conducted in the target language, with minimal English use, guiding students toward proficiency in speaking with linguistic and cultural accuracy. Alongside vocabulary and grammar acquisition, the program cultivates cultural awareness, sensitivity, and appreciation for other civilizations—preparing students as global citizens. Audio-visual tools and culturally authentic materials enhance learning both in class and at home.
Classics
The Classics program offers a comprehensive study of Latin and Greek, emphasizing language proficiency, literary analysis, and cultural understanding. Students who complete at least two years of Greek and the AP Latin course are awarded Brunswick’s prestigious Classics Diploma at graduation.
Latin is taught from introductory Level I through an Advanced Latin Seminar for seniors, with most students taking AP Latin in their junior year. Students develop the skills to read and appreciate major Latin authors such as Caesar, Cicero, Sallust, Ovid, Virgil, and Livy.
Greek is offered for three years. The first year focuses on grammar and simple translations from Herodotus and Xenophon. The second year builds on grammar fundamentals and includes readings from Xenophon’s Hieron, Plato’s Crito, and the first book of Republic. The final year surveys Homer’s epics. Throughout, the program deepens students’ understanding of ancient Roman and Greek social and political history, as well as mythology, religion, literature, and culture.
A highlight of the Classics program is the Latin Carol Service, which gives students the opportunity to read Latin in a public setting. This service, which includes classical choral compositions, takes place each December at our Pre School Campus on Lake Avenue.
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