introduce students to the world of foreign languages.

The programme, "The Phemonmenon of Language'', is aimed at engaging students in the study of language while developing their critical thinking skills.

It will also develop students' understanding for language as an expression of culture and teach them how the structure of language works.

BHS has been consulting with Carolyn Hoppe, the head of the language department at the Sprinside School in Phildelphia.

Sprinside uses a similar programme called "Prima Lingua'' which has been very successful.

Mrs. Hoppe yesterday told The Royal Gazette the programme was a great way for students to investigate and explore different languages on their own.

As a French teacher she noted a "tremendous difference'' in the students who have had the programme in comparison to the ones that had not.

After experiencing such a holistic approach to language, students find studying a foreign language much less irrational and were more open to it, she explained.

Mrs. Hoppe has been teaching language for more than 20 years and has lived in France.

She said she believed that the primary goal in cultivating foreign language in students was the need to communicate in a multi-cultural society.

The course will begin for year seven and eight students at BHS in September and will run consecutively with their regular French classes.

BHS is also starting a primary level language programme that will have year three students learning Spanish.

This will provide students with a choice of whether to pursue French, Spanish or Latin on the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) level, principal Eleanor Kingsbury explained.

"The Phenomenon of Language'' however has no formal testing.

She added: "It is a way to let the students' minds rove.'' PARLEZ VOUS FRANCAIS? Bermuda High School is preparing for a new language course "The Phenomenon of Language'' and has been consulting with language educator Carolyn Hoppe from the Sprinside School in Phildelphia. Pictured are BHS headmistress Eleanor Kingsbury (left) and Mrs. Hoppe.