World Languages

The primary goal of our world language program at the district level is to equip students with the skills and cultural understanding necessary to communicate effectively in a global society. These programs aim to foster linguistic proficiency in languages other than English, promoting not only the ability to understand and communicate in another language but also an appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. By providing students with opportunities to engage with different languages, the program encourages critical thinking, enhances cognitive development, and prepares students for future academic and career opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world. Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate global citizens who are linguistically and culturally competent, ready to thrive in a multicultural environment.

Vision and Mission

The Cherry Creek School District believes that EVERY student should have opportunities to explore new ideas and pursue personal interests through a robust electives program. The goal of the World Language Program in CCSD is to prepare students to be linguistically and culturally competent in a language other than English. The ability to communicate in a culturally appropriate manner with speakers of other languages is key to success in our increasingly diverse global community. CCSD uses the Colorado Academic Standards for World Languages as a roadmap to guide and establish the link between communication and culture, which can then be applied to make connections with other academic disciplines and comparisons with one's own language. It is through this work that our language learners become part of local and global communities.

Guiding Principles and Beliefs:

1. Language Acquisition is a Lifelong Process:

Belief: Language learning is a continuous, lifelong process that evolves over time, and proficiency grows with exposure, practice, and meaningful interaction.
Principle: Students are encouraged to see language learning as a journey, not just a classroom activity. Our world language program fosters a growth mindset, where students believe they can continue to improve their language skills over time.

2. Cultural Understanding is Essential:

3. Language Learning Supports Cognitive Development:

Belief: Learning additional languages enhances cognitive skills, including problem-solving, creativity, multitasking, and critical thinking.
Principle: Our World language programs provide opportunities for students to engage in cognitively challenging tasks that develop not only their language skills but also their ability to think critically and adapt to new situations.

4. Intercultural Communication is Key:

Belief: Mastery of a world language is about effective communication across cultural boundaries, and students should be able to use their language skills in real-world contexts.
Principle: Our programs emphasize the practical application of language in diverse settings, allowing students to engage in real-life conversations, understand different worldviews, and navigate multicultural environments.

5. Students Should Be Active Participants in Their Learning:

Belief: Language learning is most effective when students are actively engaged in meaningful interactions, exploration, and problem-solving.
Principle: The world language programs encourage active learning through collaborative activities, discussions, project-based learning, and authentic language use (e.g., interacting with peers and native speakers, watching films, or reading authentic texts).

6. Language Learning Is Student-Centered and Differentiated:

Belief: Every student learns differently, and language instruction should be tailored to meet the varied needs, interests, and proficiency levels of all learners.
Principle: Our programs are flexible and adaptive, providing opportunities for students at different proficiency levels to succeed and grow. We use diverse instructional strategies to support different learning styles, strengths, and needs.

7. Integration of the Four Core Language Skills:

Belief: Proficiency in any language depends on the development of all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Principle: The world language program balances instruction and practice across all four skills, with opportunities for meaningful use of language in both oral and written forms. Activities integrate all skills for holistic language acquisition.

8. Global Citizenship and Social Responsibility:

Belief: Learning a world language empowers students to become informed, empathetic, and active global citizens.
Principle: Our programs encourage students to understand and appreciate different cultures, promote intercultural respect, and prepare students to engage in global and social issues. We cultivate awareness of how language learning fosters greater understanding and collaboration in a globalized world.

9. Language Learning Is Motivated by Real-World Use:

Belief: Students are more motivated to learn when they see how the language is relevant and useful in real-world situations.
Principle: Our programs emphasize the practical applications of the language, whether in travel, business, relationships, or cultural exchange. Authentic materials, such as films, music, news, and literature, are used to highlight the relevance of the language in students’ daily lives.

10. Inclusivity and Equity:

Belief: Language learning opportunities should be available to all students, regardless of background, ability, or prior knowledge.
Principle: Our programs create an inclusive and supportive environment where students of all linguistic backgrounds feel welcomed and valued. We recognize the diverse language skills and experiences that students bring to the classroom and ensure that all learners have access to high-quality instruction.

11. Effective Assessment Drives Growth:

Belief: Assessment should be ongoing, formative, and used to guide student learning, not just to measure progress.
Principle: The world language programs include a variety of assessment tools (e.g., portfolios, performance-based tasks, peer feedback, quizzes) to monitor students’ progress. Assessments focus on real-world language use and provide constructive feedback to help students improve.

12. Language Learning Should Be Enjoyable and Engaging:

Belief: Students are more likely to succeed in language learning when they enjoy the process and feel motivated.
Principle: Our programs create a positive, fun, and dynamic environment that encourages students to take risks, make mistakes, and celebrate progress. Interactive, creative, and culturally rich activities, such as games, songs, and projects, are incorporated to foster a love for the language.

13. Collaboration and Communication Are Central:

Belief: Collaborative learning encourages students to use the language for meaningful communication and enhances their understanding through peer to peer and student to teacher interactions.
Principle: Our programs prioritize group work, pair activities, and other collaborative learning strategies that promote authentic communication in the target language. Peer to peer and student to teacher interactions can boost confidence and offer opportunities for practicing language in a supportive setting.

14. Technology as a Tool for Learning:

Belief: Technology can enhance language learning by providing access to authentic materials, enabling communication with native speakers, and supporting personalized learning.
Principle: Our programs integrate technology in ways that make language learning more accessible, engaging, and dynamic. This includes online platforms for language practice, virtual exchanges with native speakers, and multimedia resources that expose students to various forms of the language.

Our successful world language programs are grounded in principles that promote both language proficiency and intercultural competence. By adhering to these guiding beliefs, our programs create an environment where students are motivated to learn, develop critical skills, and become active, empathetic global citizens who can communicate effectively in a multilingual world.

Fernando Pabon Ferro

PI Partner of 6-12 World Language
Instructional Support Facility (ISF)

720.554.5033

fpabonferro@cherrycreekschools.org