Language Immersion (6-8)

8th grade China trip, 2015 China-Trip-2015

Middle school years are a time of exploration and tremendous academic, social, emotional, and physical growth. In Minnetonka, our middle school teachers are experts in understanding and inspiring, and we've designed our Language Immersion model to specifically meet the needs of middle school students. While continuing to target language development, our middle schools also provide students with opportunities to expand friendships, access honors level classes taught in English (math, science, English Language Arts), participate in our rich music and fine arts program, and learn through project-based, hands-on experiences. All components are essential to early adolescent social and emotional development

Flex-schedule model

Our Middle School Language Immersion Program uses a flex-schedule model that maximizes the overall middle school experience and extends language learning.

The benefits of the flex-schedule model include continued language development with a focus on writing, reading, speaking and listening; full access to other course options (including honors courses, support programs and all electives), and a common schedule relative to English students.

Immersion curricular areas

In 6th grade, students enroll in Immersion Social Studies paired with Immersion Language Arts for the entire year. Aligned with state standards, social studies expand students’ understanding of history by exploring the geography and historical developments of people, places and patterns of life from a combination of ancient civilizations and Minnesota history. Immersion Language Arts improves students’ reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in the target language.

In seventh grade, Immersion Social Studies is again paired with Immersion Language Arts for the entire year. Students may choose to take either a quarter-long Spanish or Chinese Culture and Arts course, or begin a new world language.

Eighth grade students have the following options:

Maximize Immersion learning by continuing in both Immersion Social Studies and Immersion
Study world Language with a focus on literature.
Enroll in either the Immersion Social Studies or Immersion World Language course only.
Begin level one of a new world language.

Three pathways

Students may select one of three paths based on their language ability, commitment and personal goals:

Advanced path: This path is for students who wish to make the most of their Language Immersion education, reaching the highest fluency level offered by Minnetonka Public Schools. Students interested in taking AP and IB courses and pursuing the IB Bilingual Diploma in high school should consider this path.

Intermediate/advanced path: This path focuses on Immersion Language Arts. In seventh grade, students may take an optional, one-quarter Immersion Culture & Arts elective. Eighth grade Immersion Social Studies is not required. Students can still pursue AP/IB courses and the IB Bilingual Diploma in high school.

Intermediate path: This path is for students who want to continue their Immersion Language studies and take AP/IB courses later in high school.

Points to consider

As a family, it is important to consider your immersion goals, and think ahead about the possible opportunities and benefits of becoming fluent in a second language: