Talley Middle School
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does the Immersion Program look like?
Immersion students will have two classes that are taught completely in Spanish: Social Studies and Spanish Language Arts. The Social Studies class follows the standard Delaware Recommended Curriculum for Social Studies, but it is presented in Spanish. The Spanish Language Arts class focuses on literature and informational texts, as well as addressing language skills through sentence structure and grammar. Students develop cultural literacy as well as enhanced cognitive skills through second language acquisition. Language Immersion students benefit from the ability to communicate with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. They also typically experience academic achievement at or above their single-language peers.
What will my child be able to do after finishing the Immersion Continuation Program at Talley?
In the 9th grade, students will enroll in the Advanced Placement Spanish course. By passing the exam at the end of this course, students can earn college credits. They are also able to continue on and select dual enrollment Spanish courses and earn more college credits while in high school.
When your child finishes immersion, he/she should be at a proficiency level of intermediate mid to advanced mid. At this level, your child will have native-like levels in second-language skills. High school immersion graduates should be able to work in or pursue post-secondary studies in their second language. . As a result of the language proficiency achieved through the immersion program, students will have access to a wider range of national and international jobs. Thousands of businesses operate in more than one language – airlines, import-export companies and other international businesses require employees with second-language skills and cultural sensitivity.
When your child finishes immersion, he/she should be at a proficiency level of intermediate mid to advanced mid. At this level, your child will have native-like levels in second-language skills. High school immersion graduates should be able to work in or pursue post-secondary studies in their second language. . As a result of the language proficiency achieved through the immersion program, students will have access to a wider range of national and international jobs. Thousands of businesses operate in more than one language – airlines, import-export companies and other international businesses require employees with second-language skills and cultural sensitivity.
How does my child become part of Talley’s Immersion Continuation Program?
Students in the Immersion Programs at the BSD elementary schools do not need to apply for choice to attend Talley, even if they are not in our attendance zone. Students will roll up to the Immersion Continuation Program at Talley by continuing on in the program. We ask that families fill out the Immersion Continuation Intent Form to help with communication through that process. Please complete this form by March 30th.
Are Immersion students separated from the rest of the students at Talley?
No. Spanish Language Arts and Social Studies are comprised of only Immersion students. However, all students have Math and Science, elective classes, extracurricular activities, and lunch together.
Can I participate in IB, AVID, Band and/or Chorus in the Immersion Program?
Yes. Many Immersion students do participate in these activities, although it is not a requirement for the Immersion Continuation Program.
Is transportation provided?
For students outside of the Talley feeder pattern, bus service can be provided from the Talley bus stop closest to their home.
Can my child become part of Talley's Immersion Continuation Program if he/she was not previously enrolled in a BSD immersion program?
If your child was part of immersion in a different district, or is a native Spanish speaker, he/she may fit the criteria for the Immersion Continuation Program at Talley. Please contact the school for more information.