Falls Spanish students compete at state

Three Falls High School students participated in the state Spanish “finalist oral” interviews, based on their results in the National Spanish Exam in levels one and two.
Eighteen FHS Spanish I and II students took the National Spanish Exam. Student finalists include Sarah Manka, Martin Murcia and Alex Ringhofer.
The State Spanish oral finals were held at the Concurso Estatal at Coon Rapids High School on Friday and Saturday. The level of achievement and proficiency the three FHS students have attained ranks them in the top 5 percent in the state among the students who took the exam, according to Spanish teacher Sue Nordquist.
“It is a tribute to a group of dedicated students who have a passion for learning the Spanish language and culture,” Nordquist said.
The exam is a pro-achievement test, which assesses both the level of achievement and proficiency in Spanish. While the exam stresses the achievement in the grammar and vocabulary section, it is a test in sections where students are asked to grasp the main idea from an authentic Spanish reading or listening passage. The exam consists of objective questions, including sections on listening comprehension, reading, vocabulary and structure.
The contest provides a vehicle for recognizing individual student achievement and promoting the Spanish programs within schools. Each finalist is recognized with a ribbon of excellence. Those who participate in the oral interview also may be awarded a medal for superior performance.
FHS has had state Spanish finalists ranking in the top 5 percent of the state each year the test has been given.