Benefits of Learning Another Language

Hablo español?

As a junior at Saint Thomas Aquinas I have taken a Spanish class for the last three years. Being surrounded by like minded students who want to achieve excellence has only benefited my study of the language. My favorite part of Spanish class is being able to talk with others and practice my speaking skills. Some of my best memories include talking to my classmates about our weekends, family, and exciting moments happening outside of class. I have not only learned grammar rules and vocabulary over the last three years, but have also developed a deep appreciation for Hispanic culture. 

Last year in Spanish 3, as an end-of-the-year project, my class was tasked with crafting a written report and oral presentation on a Spanish artist of our choice. This project allowed me to apply the skills I have learned in class to my research and presentation. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, while also allowing me to learn more about a topic I was unfamiliar with. I not only got to learn about my specific artist, but also about other artists my classmates researched. Projects like this have allowed me to gain confidence in my communication abilities.

Recently, we had a chance to put our knowledge to the test…"a true way to show your understanding is to teach someone else what you’ve learned".

Spanish Immersion in the Community

Students in Spanish 4 and Spanish 5 classes had the opportunity to share their knowledge of Hispanic culture with grade school students at Holy Cross Catholic School in celebration of Hispanic Heritage month. The two classes spent time preparing a presentation on Día de Los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead. They shared their knowledge through an informative presentation, along with building on Ofrenda to show students a real life example of the practice.

They also engaged with the grade school students by cutting out and coloring masks in celebration of the upcoming Día de Los Muertos holiday on November 2. Lucia Weida, junior and current Spanish 4 student, loved presenting to the students saying “I had such a great time at Holy Cross. The experience was so rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my culture with such an enthusiastic audience”. Although this is the first time that Saint Thomas Aquinas has partnered with Holy Cross with Hispanic Heritage month, it certainly won’t be the last!

Lasting Impact

Señora Stoecklein, World Language Department chair at Aquinas, says that her favorite part about teaching Spanish is “Watching students grow and learn”. Learning another language expands your horizons as well as offers a different way of thinking about things. Although learning another language takes time and lots of practice, the opportunities it provides are invaluable. High school is the perfect time to begin this process. Sam Novacek, senior and current Spanish 4 student, enjoyed his experience so much as to say “It’s been so helpful in my life that I even want to minor in Spanish in college”.

Of the world language options for students, Aquinas offers Latin, French, Spanish and German with the opportunity to receive college credit through the JCCC dual enrollment program for Spanish 3, 4, and 5 classes.

“Language is not a genetic gift, it is a social gift. Learning a new language is becoming a member of the club – the community of speakers of that language.”

Frank Smith

 

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About the Contributor

Gabi is a junior, class of 2026. At Aquinas, she plays on the Varsity Volleyball and Lacrosse teams. She is also a member of Key Club and Spanish NHS. In her spare time, she loves volunteering and hanging out with friends.