METHODOLOGY:
SA Playa Samara
METHODOLOGY
Classes
are conducted in entirely in Spanish, and use the Communicative
Approach as the basis for instruction. The instructors emphasize
student participation, conversational skills and educational activities,
within a framework that teaches you not only the necessary grammar,
but also how to converse and be understood in real-life situations.
Hands-on experience, role-plays, games, music, interviews with
locals, and intensive class-work support your language acquisition
goals, helping you become quickly familiar with and comfortable
in the language. As you advance, you will begin to study Latin
American history and culture, read selected literature from the
region, and participate in debates, write essays, critique films
and generally refine your language skills as you expand your cultural
knowledge.
CLASSES
Classes
begin every Monday, and you must have a placement interview prior
to arrival, either by phone or in the school facilities in the
capital region (in Heredia, close to San Jose and the airport).
There are a total of 12 levels, followed by 6 levels of specialized
courses, and all are taught entirely in Spanish. Groups are small
(maximum 6 people, average 4) and allow for much participation
and student interaction. Classes are held in the mornings or afternoons,
alternating in the green season so that everyone has a chance
to enjoy the sunny mornings! Each week students complete one level,
moving up in weekly units through the comprehensive program. Students
missing classes or falling behind may be asked to repeat a level,
so we advise you to come to class and make sure you do your homework!
TEACHERS
The professors are university qualified and
credentialed to teach Spanish as a second language. They have
all been certified by the Professional Development Training Program,
and regularly participate in ongoing seminars, both in Costa Rica
and abroad, in order to remain abreast of current methodology
issues and teaching concepts.
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