Spanish

At St. Brigid's, we believe that learning Spanish is not only an educational opportunity but also a gateway to personal and professional growth. The Spanish programme at St. Brigid's School is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and engaging education in the Spanish language the rich language and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, following the Junior and Leaving Cert curriculum specifications set by the Department of Education in Ireland.

Here are some key elements of our programme:

1. Language Proficiency: Our curriculum is structured to help students become proficient in Spanish, focusing on speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. We use modern teaching methods and resources to make learning engaging and enjoyable.
2. Cultural Awareness: Beyond just language, our program promotes cultural understanding. Students learn about the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries, fostering respect and global awareness.
3. Real-World Application: We emphasize practical language skills that can be applied in real-life situations. This includes conversational Spanish, which can be invaluable when traveling or interacting with Spanish speakers in a globalized world.

For the Junior Cert curriculum, students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Spanish. They will explore various topics, such as everyday life, family, school, and hobbies, while also delving into aspects of Spanish culture and society. The program includes interactive language activities, multimedia resources, and opportunities for real-life communication in Spanish.

In Transition Year, students engage with Spanish language and cultures through an inquiry-based approach. The course will focus on developing basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) while exploring various aspects of Spanish speaking cultures, including travel, food, films, music, sports, customs and traditions.

The inquiry-based approach to this module fosters independent learning and promotes active engagement with different aspects of the language and culture of the Spanish speaking countries.

As students progress to the Leaving Cert level, the programme delves further into the cultures, literatures, and current affairs of Spanish-speaking nations, gaining insights into the unique voices and narratives that have shaped the Spanish-speaking world.

Why learning Spanish?

Learning Spanish offers numerous benefits that extend well beyond the classroom.

1. Global Opportunities: Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Proficiency in Spanish opens doors to a vast array of international opportunities, whether it's studying abroad, working in a global company, or volunteering in Spanish-speaking communities.
2. Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Learning a second language has been shown to improve cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and multitasking, which are valuable skills in any career.
3. Career Advancement: In an increasingly interconnected world, employers highly value employees who can communicate in multiple languages. Many industries, including business, healthcare, and education, seek individuals who are bilingual.
4. Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding another culture and language fosters empathy and respect for people from diverse backgrounds. This cultural sensitivity is crucial in today's multicultural society.
5. Personal Enrichment: Learning Spanish can be personally enriching. It allows students to connect with a rich literary tradition, enjoy Spanish-language media, and build friendships with people from different cultures.

Did You Know?

1. 1. Second Most Spoken Language:Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world by native speakers, with nearly 500 million people who speak it as their first language.
2. 2. Global Reach: Spanish is not limited to Spain. It's the official language in 21 countries across the world, making it an invaluable skill for travel and international business.
3. United States Connection: Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States, thanks to its growing Spanish-speaking population. In the U.S., 13 percent of the population speaks Spanish at home. Learning Spanish can be a professional advantage in a country with a diverse and multicultural workforce.
4. Influential Literature:Spanish has a rich literary tradition, boasting some of the most celebrated authors like Gabriel García Márquez and Pablo Neruda. Reading their works in the original language provides a deeper understanding of their writing.
5. Language of Diplomacy:Spanish is one of the six official languages of the United Nations, reflecting its significance in international diplomacy and cooperation.
6. Employment Opportunities: Many multinational corporations actively seek bilingual employees, particularly those who are fluent in Spanish and English. Being bilingual can significantly enhance career prospects.
7. Pop Culture Impact:Spanish-language music, movies, and television shows have a global following. Learning Spanish can enhance your child's appreciation of Latin American and Spanish pop culture.
8. Spanish Influence on English: English has borrowed thousands of words from Spanish, including “armada”, "mosquito,","chocolate," and "plaza." Knowing Spanish can deepen your child's understanding of the English language.
9. Growing Online Presence: Spanish is one of the most widely used languages on the internet. Proficiency in Spanish can open a world of online resources and connections.
10. 1 Cultural Celebrations: Spanish-speaking countries are known for their vibrant festivals, including the Day of the Dead in Mexico and Tomatina in Spain. Learning about these cultural celebrations can be a fun and educational experience.

We hope the above highlight the significance and excitement of learning Spanish. Our program at St. Brigid's is designed to not only teach the language but also foster a deep appreciation for the culture and global impact of Spanish. Proficiency in Spanish will give them a competitive edge in their career and enrich their life experiences.

We look forward to embarking on this linguistic and cultural journey with students.