Frequently Asked Questions

How many years of a foreign language does my child need?

The minimum graduation requirement is three years of a single language, but all students are encouraged to take at least four years to remain competitive with students from other high schools and to achieve fluency. Two years of two different languages does not meet the foreign language requirement for TJHSST. The majority of students at TJ go on to complete four or more years of study with many taking advanced placement exams in language or literature. These exams may give the students college credit or advanced standing when attending college. According to Dr. John Casteen, former Director of Admissions and present President of UVA, competitive colleges like to see four or five years of a foreign language on a student's transcript when deciding on admission offers.

Does my child get credit for taking a foreign language in the eighth grade?

Yes. As long as s(he) receives a passing grade from FCPS or other accredited program, that will satisfy part of this three year minimum requirement. Courses taken before entering TJ will count toward credits in the foreign language as well as toward the total number of credits required for graduation.

If my child is taking a language in the eighth grade, does (s)he have to take the same language?

No, (s)he may change to another language, but remember that the graduation requirement is three years of a single language.

What happens if my child has lived abroad or speaks the language at home?

The Foreign Language Department policy is that (s)he may take a placement exam, and upon reviewing the results, (s)he may be placed in the appropriate level. (S)He will not receive credit for the levels or years not taken. The resulting acceleration of study must still include 3 years of study. In cases in which students are accelerated immediately to level 4 or 5, it is suggested that the student begin the study of another language since we do not offer level 6.

If my child needs a placement exam, when will that be given?

Please contact the Foreign Language Department the last week in August to schedule a placement exam.

Which language should my child take?

This depends on the interests and aspirations of the individual student. No one language is better, or easier, or preferable. We believe that all foreign languages are interesting and useful in their own way.

Do upper level foreign language courses satisfy the Fine Arts/Practical Arts/Cultural Studies graduation requirement?

Yes, students may take the fourth or fifth year of a foreign language to complete the one credit graduation requirement in Fine Arts, Practical Arts, or Cultural Studies.

What is the difference between level 4 and AP Language?

AP Language is more structured and rigorous than level 4.

If you have further questions, send them to Genevieve.Delfosse@fcps.edu