Modern Language

The Modern Language Department at Belmont Hill strives to help students reach a high level of proficiency, while also expanding their knowledge of culture throughout the regions we study.  During their years of language study, students discover what they can do with the language, establishing building blocks that stay with them throughout their studies both here and at the collegiate level.Proficiency in a foreign language is increasingly important and valued at the professional level, and, as such, we attempt to give our students an experience that will serve them beyond Belmont Hill.  Varying levels of proficiency in Chinese, Spanish and French are achieved through texts, film, podcasts, visiting speakers, trips and specific grammar and structures.  Introduction courses focus on some content learning, while upper level courses are primarily focused on skills. Once the required three years of language study are complete, each language offers additional courses (4,5,AP) and independent studies, tailored specifically to students’ needs.  Combined with the formal classroom environment, the department also offers clubs for each language, enabling students to expand their language learning experience in a more informal environment.  Students take great pride and ownership in their language studies at Belmont Hill, regularly returning to campus during college to confirm that their foundational skills acquired on the Hill are serving them well in the collegiate arena.