What Are My Foreign Language Requirements and Options?

The state of Texas requires a successful two-level minimum formal study of the same Language Other Than English (LOTE).

Regardless of  Texas’ requirement, most competitive colleges, including the University of Texas and Texas A& M require a two-year minimum study of the same language. In fact, more competitive colleges require additional years:  Harvard recommends four (4) years of foreign language and Stanford requires three (3) or more.

At MHS, students have the opportunity to study various paths of Spanish and French.  Regular, AP and Dual-Credit study are options students may choose from when deciding  how to approach their chance to learn more about new cultures and break into or improve another language.

A student planning to study more than the two years of FL is recommended to start at a Pre-AP level in order to be prepared for levels III and IV.  Also, taking the Spanish or French AP Language exam allows students the opportunity to receive college credits when they are admitted to a university.  We recommend students check with their prospective colleges to see what credit is offered for successful AP exam completion.

Another way to get college credit is to take Dual-Credit classes, which are offered through Alvin Community College at MHS in both Spanish and French for all four (4) levels.  Dual Credit is a much-accelerated course which allows students to study a full level of language in just one semester.  Students can study all four levels at a college pace in just two years.  This option is recommended for students with some prior knowledge or experience with a foreign language as there is a minimum passing grade required to advance levels.  This program is recommended for students who have completed Spanish successfully at the junior high level.

"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."
Nelson Mandela