Congratulations on your acceptance to IMSA! The Foreign Language team is happy
to welcome you and provide some information that will aid you in making your language
choices. The languages currently being offered are Russian, German, Japanese,
Mandarin Chinese, Spanish and French.
Students are expected to complete two years of language study while at IMSA. One
of the two years must be at the second level or higher. If you have completed
one or more years of foreign language at your home school, you may be able to
continue in that language at IMSA at a level which will be determined by a proficiency
evaluation. Please be aware that space availability in classes is also a factor
in determining your foreign language schedule. Language proficiency will be determined
by a written exam and oral interview. Those of you who have not yet begun to learn
a language, and those of you who would like to start a different language are
encouraged to consider some of the less commonly taught languages such as Russian,
German, Japanese, and Mandarin Chinese. We would like you to take a closer look
at these three languages which perhaps were not offered at your home school. Please
take a moment to read the information we have included about these languages.
Contrary to some notions, one language is neither easier nor more difficult than another
language. The notion that Russian is difficult and Spanish is easy is a myth. All languages
require the same amount of diligence and motivation for success. All language classes are
taught in an immersion environment with an emphasis on communication in a cultural context.
Each language requires close attention, routine practice and class participation.
