Beginning language instruction in the earliest grades establishes a foundation for further language learning. At Covenant our commitment to languages is evident as students begin their journey in the Pre-Grammar School. The study of languages helps students better understand their own native tongue and build upon these skills while having fun.

In the Pre-Grammar and Grammar Schools, thematic units are studied in three, 11-week cycles. The FLEX (Foreign Language Exploration) program introduces French, German, and Spanish languages. Language production is encouraged and retention fostered through TRP (total physical response) and Natural Approach.

As a college-preparatory school, Covenant insists on a high level of scholarship. The rhetoric school (grades 9-12) offers a modern language emphasis. Presently we offer French, German, and Spanish. The curriculum focuses on four key skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. As our students are all college bound we require 3 years of foreign language study. Students must take oral final exams in their target language. AP classes are also available.

We integrate scripture and biblical values in the classroom. Students must learn verses and a confession of faith in the target language. In addition, when cultural issues contrast with a biblical worldview, we challenge the students to examine the thinking. Teachers guide students towards an age appropriate level of oral proficiency. The verb drills of first and second year Rhetoric students provide the foundation for the reading, writing, translating, and performing required in third year and fourth year.

Currently, CCA faculty are developing an exchange program with a sister ACSI school abroad to boost oral proficiency for students entering their fourth year of language study at the AP level.