West Babylon UFSD

The world language department at West Babylon Junior High School has had a vibrant and engaging start to the year, as students dive into Spanish and Italian through meaningful, real-world learning experiences. Students are building their language skills across the three modes of communication — interpretive, presentational and interpersonal — using authentic materials such as readings, listening activities, videos and songs. Current units include self-identification, family relationships, friends, school subjects and school supplies.

Earlier this fall, the department proudly celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month. Each morning, trivia questions were read over the announcements, sparking excitement as homerooms raced to be the first to call Ms. Poggi’s classroom with the correct answer. Daily winners earned a special schoolwide shoutout the following morning.

The celebrations continued in October as the department honored Italian Heritage Month with schoolwide morning trivia. Italian students also enjoyed a special cultural experience by watching “Luca” in its original Italian language, a rewarding challenge and a fun reward after completing their quarterly assessments.

This month, students are learning vocabulary related to homes and furniture, preparing to describe where Babbo Natale (Santa Claus) needs to go to deliver giocattoli (toys). The world language team looks forward to continuing a year filled with language, culture and schoolwide community involvement.