Dear Parents,
I am sure that your children will one day say “muchas gracias” for providing them with the opportunity to begin learning a second language in elementary school. Language educators agree, it is an essential component for primary education programs.
Today’s language classrooms are very different than those of the past. Many states now require an early start in second language learning, beginning in the elementary grades extending into high school and university levels. Schools are using new methods for instruction that address the state and national standards for world languages, which emphasize communication and cultural understanding.
Research supports the many benefits for starting a second language early in life. The experience and process of learning language provides “exercise for the brain” and develops the intellectual flexibility necessary for future second language acquisition. A child who begins a second language program before age 10-12 has the opportunity to increase overall school performance, have more understanding of first language, build self confidence, creativity, and develop a more natural ‘native’ pronunciation.
You might be asking yourself: “How much Spanish will my child learn? Will my child be able to carry on a conversation by the end of the year?”
My answer to this question is this: It depends on how much time, effort, and pracitce a student puts into learning Spanish. Professionals in the field of second language education agree that how much a student can realistically learn greatly depends upon their level of motivation, the enthusiasm of their teacher, the support and interest of family members, and what they are reviewing at home or out of class with their family and friends.
It is not realistic to expect your child to become fluent after taking Spanish class twice per week for 25 minutes each session. A more realistic goal is to build a lasting platform of basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills that they will be able to expand upon for the rest of their lives.
I look forward to seeing your children in class and encourage you as their parents to see that they practice Spanish at home a little bit each day. “Poco a poco”, your children’s confidence and language skills are sure to improve!
For specific information related to Grades 1-2-3 or Grade 4, please open links for details on each topic listed below. I expect and hope parents will print, sign, and return the bottom section to me before the last September class session. I look forward to hearing from you!
Topics include:
For specific information related to Grades 1-2-3 or Grade 4, please open links for details on each topic listed below. I expect and hope parents will print, sign, and return the bottom section to me before the last September class session. I look forward to hearing from you!
Topics include:
- Program Description
- Materials and Resources
- Assessments and Instruction
- Grades, Work Habits, and Behavior
- Homework
- Absence and Make Up
- Behavior, Work Habits, and Class Participation
- Extra Help and Practice Opportunites
Language is like learning to dance or surf, play a sport or a musical instrument;
time, patience, and practice are necessary for success!
time, patience, and practice are necessary for success!
Contact Maestra Tere:
Email is best: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Email is best: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Office: 626-403-6173
You are welcome to visit our Spanish classroom!
 Bienvenidos Grade 4! |
| Bienvenidos Grades 1-3! |
