the frame

one 35-line mythological story by the author, Ovid. Generally taking place in 10th and 11th grade, students are asked to choose an excerpt and then build an interactive website to share their understanding of the text. These sorts of multi-dimensional challenges involve complex problem solving and align with our Strategic Plan goal of developing competency-focused curriculum.

Take a look for yourself. Dr. Lisowski has curated Ovid Project masterpieces for 15 years. Scan the QR code below to see these stunning metamorphosis stories and the research that went into them.

And when the learning is experiential, it can have an even greater impact. Mandarin teacher, Kathy Yang, described two Upper School language projects—dumpling and moon cake making to celebrate the Lunar New Year—as being two student favorites, “more memorable than any of the textbook lessons,” she said.

Scan the QR code to see these stunning metamorphosis stories and the research that went into them.

Beyond Grammar

With diversity as one of Head-Royce School’s three core values, the World Language program goes beyond grammar. It builds time into the curriculum to explore different beliefs, cultural practices, heritages and traditions. And it ensures we invest in a diverse team of faculty from all over the world to inculcate authentic learning opportunities. The impact is powerful.

“Studying languages allows people with entirely different worldviews—from different countries and cultures—to connect, and it broadens a person’s (own) worldview, which can help them break down prejudices and debunk preconceived notions they may have about a region of the world or a group of people. I believe that the study of foreign languages—and their accompanying cultures—leads to a more enriching and fulfilling life,” said a wise Maeve W-S ’24.