World Language Department Brings Learning to Life at West Babylon Junior High

WEST BABYLON, NY — The World Language Department at West Babylon Junior High School has had a vibrant and engaging start to the school year, as students immerse themselves in 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 focus on self-identification, family relationships, friendships, school subjects, and school supplies.

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

The celebrations continued in October with Italian Heritage Month. Students participated in morning trivia announcements, and Italian language students enjoyed a special cultural experience by watching Luca in its original Italian language — a rewarding challenge and a fun incentive after completing their quarterly assessments.

This month, students are expanding their vocabulary related to homes and furniture as they prepare to describe where Santa Claus, or Babbo Natale in Italian, needs to go to deliver toys or giocattoli as the students would say.