MCNL - Center for the Education and Study of Diverse Populations

Modern, Classical and Native Languages Content Standards
“The person who learns two languages is worth two people.” – Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
The Standards for Excellence set expectations for New Mexico students, and clearly state the proficiency in English is of the
highest importance. These Modern, Classical and Native Languages Standards with Benchmarks align with the Standards
for Excellence by supporting the use of a student’s primary or home language, as appropriate, for teaching and learning
while the student acquires proficiency in English.
The Content Standards for Modern, Classical and Native Languages were adopted as regulation by the New Mexico State
Board of Education for grades K-8, and for elective courses chosen by students and their parents for grades 9-12. The
Benchmarks are recommended for curricular guidance; they should be integrated with the curriculum of the local school
district.
1. By speaking, writing, and/or signing, etc., students
will express themselves in a culturally appropriate
manner for many purposes.
2. By listening, observing, reading and discussing,
students will comprehend and interpret oral, written,
and visual messages on a variety of topics.
3. Students will understand the relationship between
language and culture.
4. Students will develop an understanding of other
cultures, including such elements as: their
value systems, languages, traditions, and
individual perspectives.
5. Students will understand how languages work.
6. Students will use the languages studied to reinforce
and expand knowledge of other disciplines.
7. Students will use the languages studied for personal
enjoyment, personal enrichment, and employability.
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