World Languages

Chinese Courses

Course Information Video

Did you know that Chinese is the most widely spoken language in the world? 

Our Chinese language program offers a dynamic journey from your first words in Mandarin to advanced, college-level proficiency.  More than just a language class, you'll explore rich cultures, build critical thinking skills, and gain a powerful tool for your future.  Join a community of learners and open doors to a world of opportunity!

Master the Language: Develop real-world skills in listening, speaking (Mandarin), reading, and writing.

Immerse Yourself in Culture: Explore China through its traditions, history, cuisine, pop culture, film, and hands-on projects like calligraphy.

Connect Globally: Participate in a cultural exchange project with high school students in Taiwan.

Get a Head Start on Your Future:

• Earn College Credit: Through our partnership with UNM, qualified students can earn dual credit for Chinese language courses.
• Graduate with Distinction: Unlock the path to earning the New Mexico State Seal of Bilingualism-Biliteracy on your diploma.

Interested? Contact Ms. Hsu at hsu_r@aps.edu to learn more!

Chinese I / II

Grades: 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Recommended: 2.5 GPA for Chinese I; for Spring semester Chinese II, successful completion of Chinese I with C or better.
Additional requirements: For UNM Dual Credit enrollment (occurs in the spring): students must maintain an A average in class for the Fall semester
Fees:  $10 per year
Dual Credit:  Yes - UNM  (11th & 12th grade only)

Chinese I: Your Gateway to a New World

• Start from Scratch, Learn Fast!  No prior experience needed.  We use fun, interactive methods to get you speaking and understanding basic Chinese from day one.
• It's Not as Hard as You Think!  Discover the logic and beauty behind Chinese characters.  We break it down into easy-to-learn parts, making reading and writing an engaging puzzle.
• Explore a Fascinating Culture:  Go beyond the language.  Dive into Chinese festivals, food, music, and customs through hands-on projects and cultural activities.
• Boost Your Brain Power!  Learning Chinese improves memory, problem-solving skills, and creative thinking.  Stand out on college applications before you even finish the first year!

Chinese II: Build Your Fluency & Confidence

• Take Your Skills to the Next Level: Move from simple phrases to having real conversations about your life, hobbies, and opinions.
• Dive into Pop Culture: Watch clips of popular Chinese TV shows, anime, and movies.  Understand the lyrics to K-pop songs that often include Mandarin.
• Master the Art of Hanzi: Expand your vocabulary dramatically by learning the building blocks of Chinese characters.  Watch your reading speed and comprehension soar.
• Plan a "Dream Trip": Participate in a capstone project where you plan a detailed itinerary through China, using your language skills to research destinations, food, and culture.

Additional Course Information: 

• Course Sequence: Chinese I is offered in the Fall, followed by Chinese II in the Spring.
• Global Connection: Partner with students in Taiwan through a virtual cultural exchange project, facilitated by the Albuquerque Sister Cities Foundation.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Chinese III / IV

Course Information Video

Grades: 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: For Chinese III, successful completion of Chinese II with C or better; for Spring semester Chinese IV, successful completion of Chinese III with C or better.
Additional requirements: For UNM Dual Credit enrollment (occurs in the spring): students must maintain an A average in class for the Fall semester
Fees:  $10 per year
Dual Credit:  Yes - UNM  (11th & 12th grade only)

Chinese III: Become an Effective Communicator

• Explore Authentic Materials: Read short stories, news articles, and folk tales.  Listen to podcasts and interviews designed for native speakers.
• Deepen Cultural Understanding: Examine the historical and social forces that have shaped modern China, Taiwan, Singapore, and global Chinese communities.
• Develop a Sophisticated Voice: Learn to express complex ideas, emotions, and hypotheses, moving beyond everyday conversation to true self-expression.
• Get Career-Ready: Discover how proficiency in Chinese can open doors in business, international relations, tech, tourism, and more.

Chinese IV: Refine & Apply Your Skills

• Tackle Advanced Topics: Analyze Chinese literature, poetry, and film in their original language.  Discuss nuanced themes and artistic expression.
• Engage in Self-Directed Study: Pursue a research project on a topic of your choice, from traditional Chinese medicine to the latest in Chinese tech innovation.
• Hone Your Academic Voice: Practice writing formal essays, reports, and presentations, preparing you for university-level coursework.
• Become a Cultural Ambassador: Lead cultural events for the school and lower-level classes, solidifying your own knowledge while sharing your passion.

Additional Course Information: 

• Course Sequence: Chinese III is offered in the Fall, followed by Chinese IV in the Spring.
• Global Connection: Partner with students in Taiwan through a virtual cultural exchange project, facilitated by the Albuquerque Sister Cities Foundation.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Chinese V / VI

Course Information Video

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: For Chinese V, successful completion of Chinese IV with C or better; for Spring semester Chinese VI, successful completion of Chinese V with C or better.
Additional requirements: For UNM Dual Credit enrollment (occurs in the spring): students must maintain an A average in class for the Fall semester 
Fees:  $10 per year
Dual Credit:  Yes - UNM  (11th & 12th grade only)

For students who are not eligible for AP Chinese class and would like to take Chinese at the advanced level.

Chinese V: Advanced Language & Cultural Fluency

Chinese V is designed for students to achieve a sophisticated command of Mandarin by applying their skills in real-world contexts. The course moves beyond structured learning to foster genuine cultural fluency and self-expression.

• Refine Your Expression: Master the art of persuasion, and storytelling through advanced presentations and discussions on complex topics.
• Develop a Creative Voice: Hone your unique writing style in Chinese through creative projects—such as short videos, blogs—based on your personal interests.
• Connect with Culture Locally: Immerse yourself in the language by participating in local Chinese cultural events, festivals, and community gatherings, building authentic connections.
• Analyze Media & Society: Engage with contemporary Chinese-language media, film, and literature to understand the nuances of modern society.

Chinese VI: Chinese for Professional & Academic Pathways

Chinese VI empowers students to leverage their language skills as a powerful tool for their future.

• Explore Your Future: Discover how proficiency in Chinese opens doors to diverse fields like international business, diplomacy, linguistics, journalism, and tourism.
• Gain Professional Insight: Conduct informational interviews with Chinese-speaking professionals in our community, gaining firsthand career advice and building your network.
• Master Professional Presentation: Develop and deliver polished, professional-level presentations and reports suitable for an academic or business setting.

Additional Course Information: 

• Course Sequence: Chinese V is offered in the Fall, followed by Chinese VI in the Spring.
• Global Connection: Partner with students in Taiwan through a virtual cultural exchange project, facilitated by the Albuquerque Sister Cities Foundation.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

AP Chinese

Course Information Video

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Chinese IV with a B or better. 
Additional requirements: Strongly Recommended: Students take the AP Chinese Language and Culture exam at the end of the year. Chinese heritage learners who have not taken CEC Chinese classes may register for AP Chinese upon Chinese instructor's approval.  The Chinese instructor will contact AP applicants in the spring for an interview. Interested students may contact Ms. Hsu at CEC for more information.
Fees:  $10
Dual Credit:  Yes - UNM  (11th & 12th grade only)

This course is designed to bring students to a high-intermediate/pre-advanced level of proficiency (as defined by ACTFL), comparable to a fourth-semester college Chinese course.  Through an exploration of themes like: Families in Different Societies, the influence of Language and Culture on identity, influences of Beauty and Art, How Science and Technology Affect Our Lives, Factors that Impact the Quality of Life, Environmental, Political and Social Challenges.  Students will engage in independent research and develop leadership by mentoring lower-level Chinese students.  This class is the designated track for the official AP Chinese Language and Culture course.

Additional Course Information:  Students will chart their fluency by taking proficiency tests like AAPPL or STAMP. By passing these tests and meeting credit requirements, you can graduate with the New Mexico State Seal of Bilingualism-Biliteracy in Chinese on your diploma.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Chinese Bilingual Seal Support

Grade: 12th
Prerequisites: Pass AAPPL, STAMP or AP Chinese exam as required by APS
Additional requirements: Approval by instructor to take the class
Fees:  N/A
Dual Credit:  No

This course supports students in earning the New Mexico State Seal of Bilingualism-Biliteracy.  It is designed for those who have demonstrated proficiency via a language test but do not have four credits of formal Chinese coursework.

Key Requirements for Enrollment:

• Passing score on a recognized Chinese language proficiency test.
• Completion of 15 hours of community service within an English-speaking setting.
• Completion of 15 hours of community service within a Chinese-speaking community.

Course Components:
Students will receive guidance on securing community service opportunities and will compile and present a "Portfolio Presentation" as mandated by the APS Language and Cultural Equity office.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

French Courses

Did you know that 30-60% of English vocabulary comes from French? 

In this class you will:

• Read, write, speak, and listen to French
• Watch films in French
• Have the opportunity to learn about the various places around the world where French is spoken

French I / II

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: French I: CNM DSP score.  French II: Grade of C or better in French 1110 (French I)
Additional requirements: Must be able to register with CNM's Dual-Credit Program.
Fees:  none
Dual Credit:  Yes - CNM

Language acquisition is a developmental process.  Over time these learners attain the ability to write and speak in a meaningful and appropriate manner.

French I: Intended for students with no previous exposure to French, this course develops basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills aiming toward the ACTFL novice-high level.  This is an introductory course designed to teach the student to communicate in French in everyday situations and to develop an understanding of French and Francophone cultures through the identification of cultural products and practices, of cultural perspectives, and the ability to function at a survival level in an authentic cultural content.  This course will also develop the student’s sense of personal and social responsibility through the identification of social issues.

French II: A continuation of French I, students will develop a broader foundation in skills gained during the first semester, including understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French aiming towards the ACTFL intermediate-low level.  This course is designed to increase student fluency in French and Francophone products, practices, and perspectives, identifying common cultural patterns, describing basic cultural viewpoints, and further developing their sense of personal and social responsibility through the investigation of cultural issues.

Additional Course Information:  French I and II are taught in the Fall and Spring respectively.  CNM FREN 1110/1120.  CNM Dual Credit may be available, but is not guaranteed.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages
 

German Courses

Did you know that English is a Germanic language?

In this class, you will:

• Read, write, sing, and cook in German.
• Watch films in German.

Class video for more info!

German I / II

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: none
Additional requirements: none
Fees:  $10 per year
Dual Credit:  No

What's the best way to learn a new language?  Language acquisition is a developmental process.  First, the student should be surrounded by the sounds and the words of that language as much as possible.  Second, the student needs to understand everything they are hearing and reading.  It's kind of how we all learned to speak our first language and this is how you will learn German at CEC.  In class you will hear German all day long.  You will read German every day.  And I will make sure that you understand all of it.  In addition, we will sing, cook, and play games.

Additional Course Information:  German 1 and 2 are taught in the fall and spring respectively.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Japanese Courses

Do you want to learn the language of the country, which brought anime and video games to the world? The class is fun and exciting, but also challenging, so prepare to study seriously (a lot of memorization required). In this class, we will: Listen, speak, read, and write Japanese Discover the culture through various media Engage in activities such as songs, calligraphy, and “manga” creation

Homework: We do many writing exercises in Japanese class.  Students who are unable to finish their work during the period must complete it at home.  The homework must be turned in at the beginning of the next class for full credit.  There will also be weekly quizzes.  Students are expected to demonstrate good study habits and study regularly.

Japanese I / II

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Recommended: 2.5 cumulative GPA
Additional requirements: none
Fees:  Lab Fee: $10
Dual Credit:  No

Japanese I introduces students to the basic skills – listening, speaking, reading, and writing – and to the basic structures of Japanese taught within the cultural context.  Areas of study include expression, comprehension, language and culture, cultures, language functions, connections, and personal applications.  Emphasis is placed on oral, written, communication skills, and cultural activities.

Japanese II continues the focus on the basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as encouraging a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture and language.  Areas of study include expression, comprehension, language and culture, cultures, language functions, connections, and personal applications.  Emphasis is placed on applying oral, written, communication skills to personal, academic, and cultural activities.

Additional Course Information:  Japanese I and II are taught in the Fall and Spring respectively.  Japanese II: Due to the nature of this class, students who have less than a C in Japanese I at semester end will be advised not to continue with Japanese II.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Japanese III / IV

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Japanese I and II with C or better. 
Additional requirements: Students who have less than a C in Japanese III will be advised not to continue with Japanese IV.  Students who are native and/or heritage speakers and who pass an entrance test at the beginning of the fall semester may take Japanese III.
Additional Time Commitment: 2-3 hours of outside work per week
Fees:  $10
Dual Credit:  No

Japanese III reinforces and intensifies language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as encouraging a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture and language.  Areas of study include expression, comprehension, language and culture, cultures, language functions, connections, and personal applications.  Emphasis is placed on applying oral and written communication skills to personal, academic, and cultural activities.

Japanese IV reinforces and intensifies language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as encouraging a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture, language, and literary genres.  Students will be exposed to career opportunities such as linguists and diplomats as well.  Areas of study include expression, comprehension, language and culture, cultures, language functions, connections, and personal applications.  Emphasis is placed on applying oral and written communication skills to personal, academic, and cultural activities.

Additional Course Information:  Japanese III and IV are taught in the Fall and Spring respectively.  Due to the nature of this class, students who have less than a C in Japanese III may be advised not to continue with Japanese IV.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

AP Japanese

Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Japanese IV with a grade of B or better or equivalent language assessment (the student must consult with the teacher prior to registering for AP Japanese.
Additional requirements: Students who have less than a C in Japanese IV will be advised not to continue with AP Japanese.  Students who are native and/or heritage speakers and who pass an entrance test at the beginning of the fall semester may take AP Japanese.
Additional Time Commitment: 4 hours of outside work per week
Fees:  $10
Dual Credit:  No

AP Japanese: follows guidelines of the AP Japanese Language and Culture course created by the College Board.  Various authentic materials are used in order to polish the students’ linguistic skills.  The class is conducted exclusively in Japanese (except for some rare instances where complicated grammatical explanations are given) to expand and reinforce students’ productive and receptive language skills.  The class is fast paced and the students are required to work vigorously at home as well as in the classroom.  The students are encouraged, but are not required, to take the AP exam at the end of the school year.

Additional Course Information:  Due to the nature of this class, students who have less than a C in AP Japanese at the end of Fall semester may be advised not to continue with the course in Spring.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Spanish I / II

Grades: 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Spanish I - CNM DSP score.  Spanish II - Grade of C or better in Spanish 1110 (Spanish I)
Additional requirements: Must be able to register with CNM's Dual-Credit Program.
Fees:  $5.00 
Dual Credit:  Yes - CNM

Spanish I: Designed for students with little exposure to Spanish, this course develops basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills and basic intercultural competence in interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes of communication at the Novice Level of proficiency based on ACTFL guidelines.  During this course, students perform better and stronger in the Novice Mid level while some abilities emerge in the Novice High range.  This is an introductory course aimed at helping the student to communicate in Spanish in everyday familiar situations via recognition and production of practiced or memorized words, phrases, and simple sentences.

Spanish II: Designed for students with some degree of exposure to Spanish in high school and/or at home, this course continues to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills and basic intercultural competence in interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes of communication based at the Novice High Level of proficiency based on ACTFL guidelines, although a few abilities may emerge in the Intermediate Low Level.  Students in this course communicate in Spanish in familiar topics using a variety of words, phrases, simple sentences and questions that have been highly practiced and memorized.

Class video for more info!

Additional Course Information:  Spanish I and II are taught in the Fall and Spring respectively.  CNM SPAN 1110/1120.  CNM Dual Credit may be available, but is not guaranteed.

Session / Days / Times	Course Length	Credit Information
Session IA M, Tu & Th: Monday - 8:40-9:55 am Tues & Thurs - 8:40-10:55 am	Full year	1.33 elective credit per semester 4.0 CNM credits for qualifying students
Session IB Wed & Fri - 8:40-10:55 am + Monday asynchronous online work	Full year	1.33 elective credit per semester 4.0 CNM credits for qualifying students
Session II Mon thru Fri - 1:20-2:50 pm >>>This section is now FULL and has been removed from the CEC course request form.	Full year	1.33 elective credit per semester 4.0 CNM credits for qualifying students

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages

Spanish III / IV

Grades: 10th, 11th, 12th
Prerequisites: Spanish III: Successful completion of Spanish 1120 (Spanish 2) or the Spanish placement test.  Failure to meet a prerequisite may result in student being dropped from the class at any time during the term.  Spanish IV: Pass Spanish III with a C or higher.
Additional requirements: Must be able to register with CNM's Dual-Credit Program.
Fees:  $5 
Dual Credit:  Yes - CNM

This course is based on the integration of learning outcomes across Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational Modes of Communication at the Intermediate Low Level of proficiency based on ACTFL guidelines.  Students accomplish real-world communicative tasks in culturally appropriate ways as they gain familiarity with the target culture(s).  This is an intermediate course aimed at helping the student to communicate in Spanish on familiar topics about self, others and everyday life at the same time that they recognize and handle short social interactions in everyday situations by asking and answering a variety of questions.

Class video for more info!

Additional Course Information:  Spanish III and IV are taught in the Fall and Spring respectively.  CNM SPAN 2110/2120.  CNM Dual Credit may be available, but is not guaranteed.

NMPED Course/Career Cluster or Academic Course of Study: World Languages