Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

December 1, 2023

 

Greetings, Middle School Families, 

"To have another language is to possess a second soul". --Charlemagne

The Middle School World Language Department here at The Oakridge School is simply one of the best. Research indicates that the benefits of studying other languages include enhancing memory skills, increasing analytical capabilities, and the ability to work with abstract concepts.

In French, fifth grade students have learned how to pronounce different colors, specific classroom items, and the parts of the body. Sixth and seventh grade students have been learning about Paris and its amazing culture. Eighth grade students have been studying the intricacies of French art, and how to say common phrases in everyday life. C’est fantastique! 

In Spanish, all classes celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month and discussed the importance of the month by exploring the Congressional website hispanicheritagemonth.gov. In addition, students learned about prominent Hispanic leaders. The Middle School art classes joined in on the fun by creating papel picado, and Food4Life catered a delicious lunch with traditional Mexican cuisine.

In fifth grade Spanish, students learned how to describe themselves with an activity designed to have them up and moving around the classroom. They learned how to use the verb ser, and the unique characteristics of different nationalities. In sixth grade Spanish, students created a project in class on a cultural biography, highlighting a prominent Hispanic person and their contributions to the culture. 

Students in Spanish A created a digital project entitled “Todo Acerca De Mí”. They presented to one another and discussed their families, friends, pets, classes, likes and dislikes. It was a wonderful experience for our students to get to know each other in a more personal way. 

Finally, Spanish B students read the book El Chupacabras and studied the myth and folklore of Hispanic culture. They also created projects featuring biographies of Hispanic people, including Oscar de La Renta, Sonia Sotomayor, and Franklin Chang-Díaz among others. 

We are truly excited about the vast opportunities that students may be afforded by acquiring a second language and the exposure to the other cultures. 

The second progress report for this marking period has been posted. You will be able to assess your child’s grades by logging in to MyBackPack. 

OPC Winter Dessert Party SignUpGenius: Please review the available slots for Friday, December 8, and sign up here. Your child may drop off the desserts at the Middle School Office that morning.  Please do not send any desserts with nuts. Thank you for your help in making the Middle School Winter Dessert Party a success!

Warm Regards,

Tamika R. Dees

 

PLEASE VIEW IMPORTANT MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION: 

Student Council Sponsored Winter Spirit Week Dress Days 

Middle School Semester Exam Schedule 

OPC Holiday Treasures Information for 5th and 6th Grade Students 

December Food4Life Menu