JA 7 has completed Chapter 1. They have taken matching quizzes and completed their workbooks. They need to continue to review the vocabulary and the workbook pages to be ready for testing that will start next week. They will be spelling/writing, listening/understanding, and reading/understanding the vocabulary in words and sentences as well as the grammar they practiced in the workbooks.
JA 8 will follow the same instruction, but for Chapter 3.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Class Expectations and Policies JA 7 JA8 Spanish
Class Expectations and Policies
School Year 2007/2008Mrs. Rodriguez, JA 7, JA8 Spanish
1. Be respectful of all students and staff. Absolutely no disparaging remarks about any other student or staff member (See Handbook). 2. Be considerate of the needs of others. For example, do not wear strong perfumes or scented products such as lotions or deodorants that will bother others with allergies or asthma. Never put such products on in class. 3. Respect the space of others. Stay in your own space. Do not touch others or their possessions. 4. Respect Telesis property and the property of others by not causing damage. 5. Keep the aisles as clear as possible. Keep your backpack close to your desk. 6. Cell Phones or other electronic equipment will be confiscated if seen, heard, or used in the classroom. (See Handbook)
7. Be here. Excessive absences will result in a reduction of your grade. Five absences will reduce your final grade by 10% (all JA/Academy school policy). 8. It is your responsibility to ask me for missed work due to an absence. You have one day for each day absent to make it up, so don’t forget to ask for make-up work on the day you return (all JA/Academy school policy). 9. Be punctual. Three tardies will equal one absence (all JA/Academy school policy). 10. Be attentive. If I am talking to the class, you should not be talking. If another student has permission to talk, you should not be talking. Do not talk to friends when there is some time between activities. Use that time to study or read. 11. To show your attentiveness, you must sit up straight. You may not lay your head on the desk, and I must be able to see your eyes. 12. Stay in your seat unless I give you permission to get up--no wandering over to the trash or the pencil sharpener without permission. 13. When you raise your hand to speak, wait until I call on you to start talking.
14. No bathroom passes will be allowed except for emergencies. You are to use the seven-minute break between classes and the lunch period to go to the restroom and get a drink (all JA/Academy policy). 15. You may not leave the room to get a drink (all JA/Academy policy). You are to bring your own water bottle. You may drink water in the classroom but nothing else (for example, sodas, sports or energy drinks). 16. Absolutely no gum chewing in class (or on campus anywhere -- see student handbook). If you are found chewing gum in this class, you may receive a detention. No food in the classroom.
17. Be responsible in doing your work and handing it in on time. The school policy is that no late work will be accepted. 18. Stay on task and participate fully in class discussions, group work, drills, activities, and writing projects. 19. Be sure your work is legible so that I can read it easily. If I have to struggle to decipher your writing, I will not give you full credit and you will have to do it over. You may type out-of-class assignments. 20. Bring a pen, pencil, eraser and paper to class every day. a) Have them out and ready before the bell rings. b) Pencils must be sharpened before the bell rings. c) Use paper with smooth edges. Do not tear paper out of spiral binders, leaving rough edges. d) If you do not have the materials you need for class to do your work, you will receive a zero for the day’s work and will still have to complete the assignment at home. e) You may purchase supplies from Mr. Dornton. Additional items that are helpful are white out, a pen with green ink, and a one-page, 3-hole punch that fits in the notebook.
21. Bring your Accelerated Reading Book to school every day. We now have quizzes for all AR books, so you may purchase books on the AR list or get books from the public library in addition to the ones we have here. Go to renlearn.com and on the first page select “book orders” to find the books we have tests for. You also have a list of AR books that deal with Hispanic Culture. You will receive extra credit in Spanish Class for reading these books.
22. You will need 8 flat folders with horizontal pockets wide enough to hold notebook paper: Folders may be any color or school-appropriate design except black. We will put your name on them and label them in class. I may call for your folders at any time, but they will always be turned in at the end of a grading period or for parent conferences. Cost can be as low as 20 cents each.
Spanish Class Folders Labels: 1. Journal 2.Spain (JA7), Mexico (JA8) 3. Reading Summaries 4. Destinos 5. Vocab 6. Speech Info 7. Workbooks 8. Miscellaneous
23. Journal entries will be confidential unless you write something school policy requires me to report. I may ask you to share parts of writing assignments with a study partner or with the class. 24. Put a complete heading on all papers (first and last name, date, class name, assignment name). 25. Academic Dishonesty (cheating or plagiarism) is not acceptable. In addition to the consequences outlined in the student handbook, in this class you will receive a zero on the assignment and your parents will be notified. 26. All policies of the Telesis Handbook will be enforced.
27. Spanish classes have homework every night. There is always vocabulary to study and quizzes almost every day. That is why it is essential that students be prepared to work as soon as they enter the class room. 28. The state of Arizona has formulated strong, essential standards for each subject area and each level, so we have much work to do. By following the above policies, we will have the opportunity to accomplish our work in an orderly, safe, and positive environment where all students can be successful as they learn.
29. Detentions will usually be held on Wednesdays (2:30-4:00) and Study Hall on Thursdays (2:30-4:00)
School Year 2007/2008Mrs. Rodriguez, JA 7, JA8 Spanish
1. Be respectful of all students and staff. Absolutely no disparaging remarks about any other student or staff member (See Handbook). 2. Be considerate of the needs of others. For example, do not wear strong perfumes or scented products such as lotions or deodorants that will bother others with allergies or asthma. Never put such products on in class. 3. Respect the space of others. Stay in your own space. Do not touch others or their possessions. 4. Respect Telesis property and the property of others by not causing damage. 5. Keep the aisles as clear as possible. Keep your backpack close to your desk. 6. Cell Phones or other electronic equipment will be confiscated if seen, heard, or used in the classroom. (See Handbook)
7. Be here. Excessive absences will result in a reduction of your grade. Five absences will reduce your final grade by 10% (all JA/Academy school policy). 8. It is your responsibility to ask me for missed work due to an absence. You have one day for each day absent to make it up, so don’t forget to ask for make-up work on the day you return (all JA/Academy school policy). 9. Be punctual. Three tardies will equal one absence (all JA/Academy school policy). 10. Be attentive. If I am talking to the class, you should not be talking. If another student has permission to talk, you should not be talking. Do not talk to friends when there is some time between activities. Use that time to study or read. 11. To show your attentiveness, you must sit up straight. You may not lay your head on the desk, and I must be able to see your eyes. 12. Stay in your seat unless I give you permission to get up--no wandering over to the trash or the pencil sharpener without permission. 13. When you raise your hand to speak, wait until I call on you to start talking.
14. No bathroom passes will be allowed except for emergencies. You are to use the seven-minute break between classes and the lunch period to go to the restroom and get a drink (all JA/Academy policy). 15. You may not leave the room to get a drink (all JA/Academy policy). You are to bring your own water bottle. You may drink water in the classroom but nothing else (for example, sodas, sports or energy drinks). 16. Absolutely no gum chewing in class (or on campus anywhere -- see student handbook). If you are found chewing gum in this class, you may receive a detention. No food in the classroom.
17. Be responsible in doing your work and handing it in on time. The school policy is that no late work will be accepted. 18. Stay on task and participate fully in class discussions, group work, drills, activities, and writing projects. 19. Be sure your work is legible so that I can read it easily. If I have to struggle to decipher your writing, I will not give you full credit and you will have to do it over. You may type out-of-class assignments. 20. Bring a pen, pencil, eraser and paper to class every day. a) Have them out and ready before the bell rings. b) Pencils must be sharpened before the bell rings. c) Use paper with smooth edges. Do not tear paper out of spiral binders, leaving rough edges. d) If you do not have the materials you need for class to do your work, you will receive a zero for the day’s work and will still have to complete the assignment at home. e) You may purchase supplies from Mr. Dornton. Additional items that are helpful are white out, a pen with green ink, and a one-page, 3-hole punch that fits in the notebook.
21. Bring your Accelerated Reading Book to school every day. We now have quizzes for all AR books, so you may purchase books on the AR list or get books from the public library in addition to the ones we have here. Go to renlearn.com and on the first page select “book orders” to find the books we have tests for. You also have a list of AR books that deal with Hispanic Culture. You will receive extra credit in Spanish Class for reading these books.
22. You will need 8 flat folders with horizontal pockets wide enough to hold notebook paper: Folders may be any color or school-appropriate design except black. We will put your name on them and label them in class. I may call for your folders at any time, but they will always be turned in at the end of a grading period or for parent conferences. Cost can be as low as 20 cents each.
Spanish Class Folders Labels: 1. Journal 2.Spain (JA7), Mexico (JA8) 3. Reading Summaries 4. Destinos 5. Vocab 6. Speech Info 7. Workbooks 8. Miscellaneous
23. Journal entries will be confidential unless you write something school policy requires me to report. I may ask you to share parts of writing assignments with a study partner or with the class. 24. Put a complete heading on all papers (first and last name, date, class name, assignment name). 25. Academic Dishonesty (cheating or plagiarism) is not acceptable. In addition to the consequences outlined in the student handbook, in this class you will receive a zero on the assignment and your parents will be notified. 26. All policies of the Telesis Handbook will be enforced.
27. Spanish classes have homework every night. There is always vocabulary to study and quizzes almost every day. That is why it is essential that students be prepared to work as soon as they enter the class room. 28. The state of Arizona has formulated strong, essential standards for each subject area and each level, so we have much work to do. By following the above policies, we will have the opportunity to accomplish our work in an orderly, safe, and positive environment where all students can be successful as they learn.
29. Detentions will usually be held on Wednesdays (2:30-4:00) and Study Hall on Thursdays (2:30-4:00)
Why Should Students Study Spanish?
Spanish is a good language to start with. First, the Defense Language Institute says it is the easiest language for Americans to learn. In addition, Mexico is our neighbor, and most countries that share borders learn each other’s languages. Finally, Spanish is among the top five languages in the world, spoken by some 332 million native speakers. Spanish is the language spoken in Mexico and most other South and Central American countries, as well as Spain, Cuba and Puerto Rico—approximately 20 countries in all. In fact, the United States is the fifth largest Spanish-speaking country in the world. And yes, all those people speak the same Spanish and can understand each other. The differences are the same as those we see in English spoken by Americans (from Southerners to New Yorkers), by Australians, and by folks from England. There are differences in vocabulary terms and accents, but understandable differences (Puntos 10).
Why Should Students Study a Second Language?
To learn a second language is to extend the borders of one’s world;
To embrace another culture is to expand the boundaries of brotherhood.
There are many reasons for learning a second language. For example, studies show that learning a second language enhances a student’s learning ability in other academic areas. In addition, the world we live in is producing a global economy. People who can adapt easily to other cultures and learn other languages will be in demand.
Students who work hard at learning well that first “second” language can much more easily go on and master it at the college level or in vocational training. Or they will have prepared their minds for language learning and can more easily move into learning a different language. Each year of language prepares students to move on to the next level and to the next leg of the language-learning journey
The Telesis Language Program
When we start our children out on the road to language learning at an early age, it is a fun journey--easy, natural, and non-threatening. Starting early also makes it easier for our children to continue their language learning at the Junior Academy and Academy levels.
The Telesis Language Program is unique in Lake Havasu City. Students at Telesis have the opportunity to study language for twelve years. Developmental Kindergarten, Early Elementary, and Elementary students have Spanish once a week for thirty minutes while Intermediate students have Spanish once a week for forty-five minutes. Throughout the program, we continually make adjustments and review material already covered so that students who are new to our program are not at a disadvantage while students who have been with us multiple years will still have some challenges.
Junior Academy students have two years of Spanish as a regular course, a required elective. With seven years of lower-level Spanish under their belts, Junior Academy students have the opportunity to build on that foundation in order to truly learn and use a language--not just to study it. (However, students who have not had that foundation will not be penalized since JA Spanish starts with the basics.) In addition, since learning a language involves much more than just learning words, all Telesis Spanish classes, but especially Junior Academy classes, are also learning about aspects of Hispanic culture: about countries, living conditions, customs, artists, writers, music, and foods, for example.
Finally, Academy students may continue with Spanish or go on to study any of twenty-six other languages to meet the Telesis two-year language requirement for graduation. Academy students have such a wide choice because they have the unique opportunity to study language through the teacher-supervised Rosetta Stone on-line program.
Telesis students, therefore, have many opportunities to learn language. Nevertheless, to receive the most benefit from the language classes, it is up to each individual student to seize the opportunity to learn well the new vocabulary and the intricacies of a foreign grammar and to seek out opportunities to communicate in the language.
The Telesis Language Program is unique in Lake Havasu City. Students at Telesis have the opportunity to study language for twelve years. Developmental Kindergarten, Early Elementary, and Elementary students have Spanish once a week for thirty minutes while Intermediate students have Spanish once a week for forty-five minutes. Throughout the program, we continually make adjustments and review material already covered so that students who are new to our program are not at a disadvantage while students who have been with us multiple years will still have some challenges.
Junior Academy students have two years of Spanish as a regular course, a required elective. With seven years of lower-level Spanish under their belts, Junior Academy students have the opportunity to build on that foundation in order to truly learn and use a language--not just to study it. (However, students who have not had that foundation will not be penalized since JA Spanish starts with the basics.) In addition, since learning a language involves much more than just learning words, all Telesis Spanish classes, but especially Junior Academy classes, are also learning about aspects of Hispanic culture: about countries, living conditions, customs, artists, writers, music, and foods, for example.
Finally, Academy students may continue with Spanish or go on to study any of twenty-six other languages to meet the Telesis two-year language requirement for graduation. Academy students have such a wide choice because they have the unique opportunity to study language through the teacher-supervised Rosetta Stone on-line program.
Telesis students, therefore, have many opportunities to learn language. Nevertheless, to receive the most benefit from the language classes, it is up to each individual student to seize the opportunity to learn well the new vocabulary and the intricacies of a foreign grammar and to seek out opportunities to communicate in the language.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Classwork and Homework May 14-16, May 19-21
Daily Homework: Review Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 vocabulary.
Wednesday, May 14 Homework: Study for test.
Thursday, May 15 Homework: Finish Spain Report, Draft 1.
Monday, May 19 Homeowork: Study for test.
Tuesday, May 20 Homework: Finish Spain Report, Final Draft.
Every Day: Students bring all folders and the Spanish textbook to class.
Wednesday, May 14: Practice orally Chapter 2 B pretest (preparation for Chapter 2 Test), Give out study guide.
Thursday, May 15: Chapter 2 B pretest
Thursday, May 15: 1) Write Final Speech (students will give their speeches Monday and Wednesday, June 2nd and 4th). 2)Give out study guide for Chapter 2 test.
Thursday, May 15: Final Study Hall
Friday, May 16: Turn in Spain Report, First Draft if you have it. Destinos 14, Argentina
Monday, May 19: Review for Chapter 2 Test (Final Exam).
Destinos 15, Argentina
Tuesday, May 20: Chapter 2 Test
Destinos 16, Argentina
Wednesday, May 21: Final Draft of Spain Report is due Wednesday May 21 at the latest. If it is turned in Friday, the 16th, you will have a chance to rewrite it. Turn in entire Spain Folder: 1) the report (handwritten draft and first draft + the handout with the instructions 2) all internet articles with information used in the report highlighted. 3) all the articles I gave you in class.
Wednesday, May 21: All folders are due.
Wednesday, May 21: Destinos 17, Argentina
Wednesday, May 14 Homework: Study for test.
Thursday, May 15 Homework: Finish Spain Report, Draft 1.
Monday, May 19 Homeowork: Study for test.
Tuesday, May 20 Homework: Finish Spain Report, Final Draft.
Every Day: Students bring all folders and the Spanish textbook to class.
Wednesday, May 14: Practice orally Chapter 2 B pretest (preparation for Chapter 2 Test), Give out study guide.
Thursday, May 15: Chapter 2 B pretest
Thursday, May 15: 1) Write Final Speech (students will give their speeches Monday and Wednesday, June 2nd and 4th). 2)Give out study guide for Chapter 2 test.
Thursday, May 15: Final Study Hall
Friday, May 16: Turn in Spain Report, First Draft if you have it. Destinos 14, Argentina
Monday, May 19: Review for Chapter 2 Test (Final Exam).
Destinos 15, Argentina
Tuesday, May 20: Chapter 2 Test
Destinos 16, Argentina
Wednesday, May 21: Final Draft of Spain Report is due Wednesday May 21 at the latest. If it is turned in Friday, the 16th, you will have a chance to rewrite it. Turn in entire Spain Folder: 1) the report (handwritten draft and first draft + the handout with the instructions 2) all internet articles with information used in the report highlighted. 3) all the articles I gave you in class.
Wednesday, May 21: All folders are due.
Wednesday, May 21: Destinos 17, Argentina
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Classwork and Homework May 5-9, May 12-16, May 19-21
Chapter Two cont'd
Daily Homework: Review Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 Vocabulary.
Every Day: Students, bring your folders and your Spanish textbook.
Final two study halls: May 8, May 15
Students, be prepared to start writing your Spain Report. Final draft is due Wednesday May 21.
All folders due Wednesday, May 21.
Final Speeches will be given Monday, June 2nd, and Wednesday, June 4th.
Week of May 5-9
Monday is Cinco de Mayo. We'll celebrate with some food, but then we'll have work to do.
1) Students will have their final chance to complete and correct their English-Spanish vocabulary quizzes. Students, please study. You'll need these words to do well on the upcoming tests. Also, review Chapter One vocabulary. We'll still be using those words on tests and speeches.
2) We'll go over the Primer Paso A standardized quiz orally to practice for the written quiz we will take on Tuesday. Students will be given a study guide.
3. Bring your Spanish books all this week and all your folders.
4. We'll read the author's afterword from Esperanza Rising and write a summary of the entire book.
Tuesday:
1) We will take the written Primer Paso A quiz.
2) Segundo Paso Workbooks are due. I will give you the Segundo Paso workbook keys, and a study guide for the quiz.
3. We will complete Tercer Paso in the textbook. Students will start working on Tercer Paso in the workbooks.
Wednesday:
1) We will go over the Segundo Paso A standardized quiz orally to practice for the written quiz we will take on Thursday. Students will be given a study guide.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will write the introduction (page 1) of our Spain report.
Thursday:
1) We will take the Segundo Paso A standardized quiz.
2) Tercer Paso Workbooks are due.
3) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
4) We will write page two of our Spain report.
Friday:
Destinos 13 Argentina
Week of May 12-16
Monday:
1) We will go over Tercer Paso A standardized quiz orally to practice for the written quiz2. Students will be given a study guide.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will write page 3 of our Spain report.
Tuesday:
1) We will take Tercer Paso A quiz.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will write page 4 (5,6) of our Spain report.
Wednesday:
1) We will practice orally Primer, Segundo, and Tercer Paso B standardized pretest to practice for the written pretest. Students will be given a study guide
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) Turn in draft of Spain Report.
4) We will write our Final Speech.
Thursday:
1) Students will take the B standardized pretest.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will edit our Final Speech.
4) I will return the draft of the Spain Report with suggestions for improvement.
Friday:
Destinos 14 Argentina
Week of May 19-21
Monday:
1) We will practice Chapter 2 test orally. Students will be given a study guide.
2) Destinos 15 Argentina
Tuesday:
1) We will take Chapter 2 test.
2) Destinos 16 Argentina
Wednesday:
Final Spain Report is Due.
All folders are to be turned in.
I will let students know what will be happening this Thursday through Friday of next week.
Daily Homework: Review Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 Vocabulary.
Every Day: Students, bring your folders and your Spanish textbook.
Final two study halls: May 8, May 15
Students, be prepared to start writing your Spain Report. Final draft is due Wednesday May 21.
All folders due Wednesday, May 21.
Final Speeches will be given Monday, June 2nd, and Wednesday, June 4th.
Week of May 5-9
Monday is Cinco de Mayo. We'll celebrate with some food, but then we'll have work to do.
1) Students will have their final chance to complete and correct their English-Spanish vocabulary quizzes. Students, please study. You'll need these words to do well on the upcoming tests. Also, review Chapter One vocabulary. We'll still be using those words on tests and speeches.
2) We'll go over the Primer Paso A standardized quiz orally to practice for the written quiz we will take on Tuesday. Students will be given a study guide.
3. Bring your Spanish books all this week and all your folders.
4. We'll read the author's afterword from Esperanza Rising and write a summary of the entire book.
Tuesday:
1) We will take the written Primer Paso A quiz.
2) Segundo Paso Workbooks are due. I will give you the Segundo Paso workbook keys, and a study guide for the quiz.
3. We will complete Tercer Paso in the textbook. Students will start working on Tercer Paso in the workbooks.
Wednesday:
1) We will go over the Segundo Paso A standardized quiz orally to practice for the written quiz we will take on Thursday. Students will be given a study guide.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will write the introduction (page 1) of our Spain report.
Thursday:
1) We will take the Segundo Paso A standardized quiz.
2) Tercer Paso Workbooks are due.
3) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
4) We will write page two of our Spain report.
Friday:
Destinos 13 Argentina
Week of May 12-16
Monday:
1) We will go over Tercer Paso A standardized quiz orally to practice for the written quiz2. Students will be given a study guide.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will write page 3 of our Spain report.
Tuesday:
1) We will take Tercer Paso A quiz.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will write page 4 (5,6) of our Spain report.
Wednesday:
1) We will practice orally Primer, Segundo, and Tercer Paso B standardized pretest to practice for the written pretest. Students will be given a study guide
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) Turn in draft of Spain Report.
4) We will write our Final Speech.
Thursday:
1) Students will take the B standardized pretest.
2) We will catch up on items that students are missing.
3) We will edit our Final Speech.
4) I will return the draft of the Spain Report with suggestions for improvement.
Friday:
Destinos 14 Argentina
Week of May 19-21
Monday:
1) We will practice Chapter 2 test orally. Students will be given a study guide.
2) Destinos 15 Argentina
Tuesday:
1) We will take Chapter 2 test.
2) Destinos 16 Argentina
Wednesday:
Final Spain Report is Due.
All folders are to be turned in.
I will let students know what will be happening this Thursday through Friday of next week.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Classwork and Homework April 28-May 2
This week--Chapter Two, cont'd
Homework:
Study Chapter Two vocabulary and review Chapter One vocabulary. We are still using it.
Complete and turn in Primer Paso workbooks (if student did not do so last week).
Work on Segundo Paso workbook.
In Class:
Last week students took (and retook) matching vocabulary quizzes on Chapter Two--Primer Paso, Segundo Paso and Tercer Paso. We covered Primer Paso (Part One) of the chapter.
Workbooks, Primer Paso, were due last week, but students may still turn them in this week.
Quizzes
This Monday, students will take an English-Spanish Vocabulary Quiz on Primer Paso. On this type quiz, I give students the vocabulary word in English and they write the word in Spanish, or I give the word in Spanish and students write it in English.
This Wednesday, students will take an English-Spanish Vocabulary Quiz on Segundo Paso and a very short Tercer Paso (Parts Two and Three). Remember, we have been practicing this vocabulary for several weeks now.
This Thursday, students will take a standardized quiz on Part One (Vocab, Grammar, Sentences). We will go over the material that will be on the quiz during the week.
This week, we will cover Segundo Paso in class.
Monday--Esperanza Rising
Friday--Destinos
Homework:
Study Chapter Two vocabulary and review Chapter One vocabulary. We are still using it.
Complete and turn in Primer Paso workbooks (if student did not do so last week).
Work on Segundo Paso workbook.
In Class:
Last week students took (and retook) matching vocabulary quizzes on Chapter Two--Primer Paso, Segundo Paso and Tercer Paso. We covered Primer Paso (Part One) of the chapter.
Workbooks, Primer Paso, were due last week, but students may still turn them in this week.
Quizzes
This Monday, students will take an English-Spanish Vocabulary Quiz on Primer Paso. On this type quiz, I give students the vocabulary word in English and they write the word in Spanish, or I give the word in Spanish and students write it in English.
This Wednesday, students will take an English-Spanish Vocabulary Quiz on Segundo Paso and a very short Tercer Paso (Parts Two and Three). Remember, we have been practicing this vocabulary for several weeks now.
This Thursday, students will take a standardized quiz on Part One (Vocab, Grammar, Sentences). We will go over the material that will be on the quiz during the week.
This week, we will cover Segundo Paso in class.
Monday--Esperanza Rising
Friday--Destinos
Friday, April 18, 2008
Classwork and Homework April 21-25
We are now working on Chapter Two. That means we have new vocabulary and new grammar. We have taken a matching quiz over Part One Vocab but students will have a chance to correct mistakes on Monday. On Monday we will also take a matching Quiz over Part Two of the Vocabulary. On Wednesday, we will take a matching Quiz over Part Three of the Vocabulary, which will include the numbers to a hundred.
During the week, students should review Chapter One vocabulary and continue to work on Chapter Two vocabulary. The next step will be to write the vocabulary words out in Spanish.
Students should also begin to read through the chapter and review any work we do in class. Finally, students should begin to work in the workbooks as we complete Parts One, Two, and Three in class discussions and practices.
Yes, they will have homework every night this next week.
For the next few weeks, I will be hosting a study hall and catch-up sessions on Thursdays from 2:30 to 4:30. Students may come in and work for as long as they need to.
Exciting news is that students are doing well on their tests. Some just need to catch up on back work.
During the week, students should review Chapter One vocabulary and continue to work on Chapter Two vocabulary. The next step will be to write the vocabulary words out in Spanish.
Students should also begin to read through the chapter and review any work we do in class. Finally, students should begin to work in the workbooks as we complete Parts One, Two, and Three in class discussions and practices.
Yes, they will have homework every night this next week.
For the next few weeks, I will be hosting a study hall and catch-up sessions on Thursdays from 2:30 to 4:30. Students may come in and work for as long as they need to.
Exciting news is that students are doing well on their tests. Some just need to catch up on back work.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Classwork and Homework April 14-18
State testing is finished and we now need to get back to work. Monday will be a full day. Tuesday-Friday will be early release days to accommodate parent/teacher conferences.
JA7 will have the Chapter One (final) test on Monday.
JA8 will have the test later in the week.
Monday is the last day to hand in folders and papers for this grading period (parents will be given current grades at conferences).
This week, students will be given vocabulary lists and workbook pages for Chapter Two. Matching quizzes will start next week. In addition to learning the new vocabulary, they will need to continue to review the Chapter One vocabulary because we will continue to use it.
Most students are doing very well, especially on quizzes and tests. Some are still not completing the written work for their portfolios. That work still needs to be done.
JA7 will have the Chapter One (final) test on Monday.
JA8 will have the test later in the week.
Monday is the last day to hand in folders and papers for this grading period (parents will be given current grades at conferences).
This week, students will be given vocabulary lists and workbook pages for Chapter Two. Matching quizzes will start next week. In addition to learning the new vocabulary, they will need to continue to review the Chapter One vocabulary because we will continue to use it.
Most students are doing very well, especially on quizzes and tests. Some are still not completing the written work for their portfolios. That work still needs to be done.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Homework and Classwork April 7-11
This week students will be taking AIMS and Terra Nova tests. I probably won't have JA8 at all or for no more than an hour on some days. It's possible that JA7 will have all or part of their class on some days.
Overall, students did well on their Chapter One pretest. Most need to work on spelling, accent marks, the numbers and writing complete sentences.
Now we are studying for one final Chapter One test. Students have a study guide telling them exactly what will be on the test. They also have workbook keys to practice material similar to what will be on the test. In addition, they have a grammar tutor package (extra workbook pages) to review grammar points.
Therefore, this week students should continue to review vocabulary, complete the tutor package, and go over the material in the Test Study Guide.
Students may also bring me any folders that they have brought up to date, so I can check off their work, which will allow them to have a higher grade for parent conferences than they did for midterm grade reporting. I'll be available before and after school.
Overall, students did well on their Chapter One pretest. Most need to work on spelling, accent marks, the numbers and writing complete sentences.
Now we are studying for one final Chapter One test. Students have a study guide telling them exactly what will be on the test. They also have workbook keys to practice material similar to what will be on the test. In addition, they have a grammar tutor package (extra workbook pages) to review grammar points.
Therefore, this week students should continue to review vocabulary, complete the tutor package, and go over the material in the Test Study Guide.
Students may also bring me any folders that they have brought up to date, so I can check off their work, which will allow them to have a higher grade for parent conferences than they did for midterm grade reporting. I'll be available before and after school.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Homework and Classwork March 31-April 4
We are planning on taking a Chapter One pretest on Thursday. Students should be making sure they can understand, read, and write correctly the vocabulary and the grammar of Chapter One (which we have been studying for most of the semester). They have a study guide telling them exactly what will be on the test and which sections of the workbook they should study to prepare for each part of the test. Last week, students also had the opportunity to correct and make notes on material they missed on the section pretest quizzes they took in preparation for this test. In addition, we will go over all parts of the test in class. If we have time, we will do additional chapter listening practices with CD and Video.
We also plan to read Esperanza, Chapter 9 during the week and watch Destinos, Chapter 9 on Friday.
We also plan to read Esperanza, Chapter 9 during the week and watch Destinos, Chapter 9 on Friday.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Homework and Classwork March 24-28
Review Chapter 1 Vocabulary.
MONDAY:
1. Students should have completed workbook pages for Chapter 1, Tercer (3) Paso.
2. In class we will go over the Chapter 1, Tercer Paso Pretest Quiz. Students already have a study guide and a key to the workbooks to study for the test. Students who did not do well on the "ser" section of the last pretest quiz will be able to retake that section on Tuesday. Students who have missed vocabulary quizzes will have the opportunity to make those up on Tuesday.
3. We will read Esperanza Rising, Chapter 8.
TUESDAY:
1. Pretest QuizA on Chapter 1 Tercer Paso
2. Make up and retakes
3. Finish Esperanza, Chapter 8 if needed. Students should write a summary of Chapter 8 and put it in the Summary Folder.
WEDNESDAY:
1. Students have material on Spain in their Spain folder. They are supposed to be reading through it and highlighting sections they might want to use in their final Spain Report. They will receive some new material today.
2. Students will correct all their mistakes on the pretests we have been taking.
3. This will be a catch up day. I will be checking folders to see if they have completed all their work.
THURSDAY
1. Students will receive a study guide for the Chapter 1, Section 1,2,3 Pretest, which will be taken on Tuesday. This pretest is the final preparation for the Chapter Test.
2. Students will watch a documentary on Spain and will fill out a worksheet on the video to go in their Spain folder.
3. Students will start writing the introductory paragraph for the Spain Report.
FRIDAY
1. Destinos Episode 8 "El Encuentro" (the encounter)
MONDAY:
1. Students should have completed workbook pages for Chapter 1, Tercer (3) Paso.
2. In class we will go over the Chapter 1, Tercer Paso Pretest Quiz. Students already have a study guide and a key to the workbooks to study for the test. Students who did not do well on the "ser" section of the last pretest quiz will be able to retake that section on Tuesday. Students who have missed vocabulary quizzes will have the opportunity to make those up on Tuesday.
3. We will read Esperanza Rising, Chapter 8.
TUESDAY:
1. Pretest QuizA on Chapter 1 Tercer Paso
2. Make up and retakes
3. Finish Esperanza, Chapter 8 if needed. Students should write a summary of Chapter 8 and put it in the Summary Folder.
WEDNESDAY:
1. Students have material on Spain in their Spain folder. They are supposed to be reading through it and highlighting sections they might want to use in their final Spain Report. They will receive some new material today.
2. Students will correct all their mistakes on the pretests we have been taking.
3. This will be a catch up day. I will be checking folders to see if they have completed all their work.
THURSDAY
1. Students will receive a study guide for the Chapter 1, Section 1,2,3 Pretest, which will be taken on Tuesday. This pretest is the final preparation for the Chapter Test.
2. Students will watch a documentary on Spain and will fill out a worksheet on the video to go in their Spain folder.
3. Students will start writing the introductory paragraph for the Spain Report.
FRIDAY
1. Destinos Episode 8 "El Encuentro" (the encounter)
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Homework, Classwork March 19, 20 Update
We completed more than I expected us to on Monday and Tuesday. As a result, we have time to complete one more section of the Chapter One before Spring Break.
Students should finish workbooks, Chapter One, Segundo Paso tonight (Tuesday, March 18). Most have already done so. In class on Wednesday, we will go over and practice the pretest for Segundo Paso. Students have already been given the study guide for the test. Those who have completed the workbook have been given the answer key, so they will have accurate workbooks to study for the test. We will take the test on Thursday. We will still watch Destinos on Friday.
Students should finish workbooks, Chapter One, Segundo Paso tonight (Tuesday, March 18). Most have already done so. In class on Wednesday, we will go over and practice the pretest for Segundo Paso. Students have already been given the study guide for the test. Those who have completed the workbook have been given the answer key, so they will have accurate workbooks to study for the test. We will take the test on Thursday. We will still watch Destinos on Friday.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Homework and Classwork March 10-14
There's a Pre-Test coming up on Tuesday over Chapter One, Primer Paso. Students need to continue to review and practice Chapter One vocabulary. In addition, students have been given a study guide for the test. The guide tells students exactly what will be on the test and which workbook sections they need to study to practice for each of the four parts on the test.
On Monday, we will practice the test orally. On Tuesday, we will take the written test. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, as we have time, students will read a chapter from Esperanza Rising and then write a summary. On Tuesday, students will get the study guide for the next pre-test, Chapter One, Segundo Parte. They will also need to complete their workbooks for Chapter One, Segundo Parte.
Please keep in mind, that the material covered in the sequence of tests we will be taking over the next few weeks is not new material. We have already been studying and practicing it for several weeks. The tests are just one more way to use the material and the vocabulary we are learning. Those students who have not yet learned the vocabulary will have the most difficulty.
On Monday, we will practice the test orally. On Tuesday, we will take the written test. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, as we have time, students will read a chapter from Esperanza Rising and then write a summary. On Tuesday, students will get the study guide for the next pre-test, Chapter One, Segundo Parte. They will also need to complete their workbooks for Chapter One, Segundo Parte.
Please keep in mind, that the material covered in the sequence of tests we will be taking over the next few weeks is not new material. We have already been studying and practicing it for several weeks. The tests are just one more way to use the material and the vocabulary we are learning. Those students who have not yet learned the vocabulary will have the most difficulty.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Classwork and Homework March 3-7
1. On Monday, students will retake the Spanish/English vocabulary quiz on the Primer and Segundo paso (parts 1 and 2) to bring up their grades. 2. Students need to continue to review Chapter 1 vocabulary since we will use it in all exercises and tests. 3. Students also need to complete part 1 (Primer Paso) in their two workbook packages. 4. In class, we will read a chapter from Esperanza on Monday. 5. Tuesday and Wednesday, we will review Primer Paso in the text, in the workbook, and in video and CD listening exercises to prepare for our first standardized pretest on Primer Paso, to be taken soon.
Monday, February 25, 2008
February 25-29 Classwork and Homework for JA7 & 8 Spanish
Homework: We have taken matching tests and written tests over Chapter One vocabulary. Students should know their weak spots. As a result, students should continue to study and review the Chapter One vocabulary EACH EVENING. Every activity and test that we do for the next few weeks will require knowing this vocabulary. Studying does not mean just reading over the words. Studying means looking at an English word and then trying to write the word in Spanish. If the word is written correctly, the student may move on to the next. If there is an error, students should put a small x by the word and write it correctly three times before moving on to the next word.
Class Work: Monday and Thursday, using the Chapter One Vocabulary, we will move through the textbook, completing oral and written exercises. Tuesday and Wednesday, we will be out of our classroom due to AIMS testing. We will read Chapters Four and Five from Esperanza Rising. Students will then write chapter summaries. Friday, we will watch Episode Five of our soap opera, Destinos.
Class Work: Monday and Thursday, using the Chapter One Vocabulary, we will move through the textbook, completing oral and written exercises. Tuesday and Wednesday, we will be out of our classroom due to AIMS testing. We will read Chapters Four and Five from Esperanza Rising. Students will then write chapter summaries. Friday, we will watch Episode Five of our soap opera, Destinos.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Homework: February 19-22
We are having three vocabulary quizzes this coming week. We had matching quizzes on this same vocabulary last week (and have practiced the vocabulary for several weeks), so the material is familar. This week students will need to write out the words, half in English and half in Spanish. Students need to start learning to spell the words in order to prepare for upcoming tests.
1. Section One/Primer Paso--Tuesday
2. Section Two/Segundo Paso--Wednesday
3. Sectlion Three/Tercer Paso--Thursday
1. Section One/Primer Paso--Tuesday
2. Section Two/Segundo Paso--Wednesday
3. Sectlion Three/Tercer Paso--Thursday
Class Folders: Why does my child need 8 folders?
Several students have reported that their parents are wondering why they need 8 folders. Here's why.
1. JA students have a very hard time keeping up with their material. The folders help them organize their papers, with all similar papers kept in one folder.
2. Many of the folders are being used to create portfolios. At the end of the semester, I will give the students' work one last look. Students will then receive a grade based on the overall quality of the work--a sort of bonus for all the good work they did. Keeping their work in folders helps assure that they will still have all their work at the end of the semester.
3. In a language class, students need to continually review vocabulary--both current vocab and vocab from previous lessons. The workbook folder and the Vocabulary/Test Guide folder hold material that needs to be reviewed daily.
4. One folder is being used to hold information for a report on Spain (to be written toward the end of the semester), and one will be used to hold material that can be used in the students' final speeches.
Language classes are complex. In addition to learning vocabulary and grammar, we study history; geography; literature, music, and art; and many other cultural aspects of the people who speak the language. Student folders help keep the different parts of our studies organized.
1. JA students have a very hard time keeping up with their material. The folders help them organize their papers, with all similar papers kept in one folder.
2. Many of the folders are being used to create portfolios. At the end of the semester, I will give the students' work one last look. Students will then receive a grade based on the overall quality of the work--a sort of bonus for all the good work they did. Keeping their work in folders helps assure that they will still have all their work at the end of the semester.
3. In a language class, students need to continually review vocabulary--both current vocab and vocab from previous lessons. The workbook folder and the Vocabulary/Test Guide folder hold material that needs to be reviewed daily.
4. One folder is being used to hold information for a report on Spain (to be written toward the end of the semester), and one will be used to hold material that can be used in the students' final speeches.
Language classes are complex. In addition to learning vocabulary and grammar, we study history; geography; literature, music, and art; and many other cultural aspects of the people who speak the language. Student folders help keep the different parts of our studies organized.
Class Expectations, Spanish JA7 JA8
Class Expectations and Policies
School Year 2007/2008
Mrs. Rodriguez, Spanish I
1. Be respectful of all students and staff. Absolutely no disparaging remarks about any other student or staff member.
2. Be considerate of the needs of others. For example, do not wear strong perfumes or scented products such as lotions or deodorants that will bother others with allergies or asthma. Never put such products on in class.
3. Respect the space of others. Stay in your own space.
4. Respect Telesis property and the property of others by not causing damage.
5. Keep the aisles as clear as possible. Keep your backpack close to your desk.
6. Cell Phones or other electronic equipment will be confiscated if seen or used in the classroom. (See Handbook)
7. Be here. Excessive absences will result in a reduction of your grade. Five absences will reduce your final grade by 10% (all JA/Academy school policy).
8. It is your responsibility to ask me for missed work due to an absence. You have until the following day to make it up, so don’t forget to ask for make-up work on the day you return (all JA/Academy school policy).
9. Be punctual. Three tardies will equal one absence (all JA/Academy school policy).
10. Be attentive. If I am talking to the class, you should not be talking. If another student has permission to talk, you should not be talking. Do not talk to friends when there is some time between activities. Use that time to study or read.
11. To show your attentiveness, you must sit up straight. You may not lay your head on the desk.
12. Stay in your seat unless I give you permission to get up.
13. When you raise your hand to speak, wait until I call on you to start talking.
14. No bathroom passes will be allowed except for emergencies. You are to use the seven-minute break between classes and the lunch period to go to the restroom and get a drink (all JA/Academy policy).
15. You may not leave the room to get a drink (all JA/Academy policy). You are to bring your own water bottle. You may drink water in the classroom but nothing else (for example, sodas, sports or energy drinks).
16. Absolutely no gum chewing in class (or on campus anywhere -- see student handbook). If you are found chewing gum in this class, you mayreceive a detention. No food in the classroom.
17. Be responsible in doing your work and handing it in on time. The school policy is that no late work will be accepted.
18. Stay on task and participate fully in class discussions, group work, drills, activities, and writing projects.
19. Be sure your work is legible so that I can read it easily. If I have to struggle to decipher your writing, I will not give you full credit and you will have to do it over. You may type out-of-class assignments.
20. Bring a pen, pencil, and paper to class every day. a) Have them out and ready before the bell rings. b) Pencils must be sharpened before the bell rings. c) Use paper with smooth edges. Do not tear paper out of spiral binders, leaving rough edges. d) If you do not have the materials you need for class to do your work, you will receive a zero for the day’s work and will still have to complete the assignment at home. e) You may purchase supplies from Mr. Dornton. Additional items that are helpful are white out, a pen with green ink, and a one-page, 3-hole punch that fits in the notebook.
21. Bring your Accelerated Reading Book to school every day. If you do not have it when you are asked to spend class time reading, you may have a 30-minute detention the following day, which you will spend reading your AR book. We now have quizzes for all AR books, so you may purchase books on the AR list or get books from the public library in addition to the ones we have here. Go to renlearn.com and on the first page select “book orders” to find the books we have tests for. However, you are not to read your AR book if you have ANY Spanish assignments due.
22. You will need 8 flat folders with horizontal pockets wide enough to hold notebook paper: Folders may be any color or school-appropriate design except black. We will put your name on them and label them in class. I may call for your folders at any time, but they will always be turned in at the end of a grading period or for parent conferences. Cost can be as low as 20 cents each.
23. Journal entries will be confidential unless you write something school policy requires me to report. I may ask you to share parts of writing assignments with a study partner or with the class.
24. Put a complete heading on all papers (first and last name, date, class name, assignment name).
25. Academic Dishonesty (cheating or plagiarism) is not acceptable. In addition to the consequences outlined in the student handbook, in this class you will receive a zero on the assignment and your parents will be notified.
26. All policies of the Telesis Handbook will be enforced.
27. Spanish classes have homework every night. There is always vocabulary to study and quizzes almost every day. That is why it is essential that students be prepared to work as soon as they enter the class room.
28. The state of Arizona has formulated strong, essential standards for each subject area and each level, so we have much work to do. By following the above policies, we will have the opportunity to accomplish our work in an orderly, safe, and positive environment where all students can be successful as they learn.
Spanish Class Folders Labels
1. Journal (Entries)
2. Workbooks: Practice and Grammar
3. Schedule/Vocabulary/Test Guides
4. Reading Summaries: Esperanza, Stories from Spain
5. Final Spain Report: Information and Portfolio
6. Destinos Information
7. Miscellalneous Activities/Extra Points: Video Work Sheets, Handouts
8. Final Speech: Information
School Year 2007/2008
Mrs. Rodriguez, Spanish I
1. Be respectful of all students and staff. Absolutely no disparaging remarks about any other student or staff member.
2. Be considerate of the needs of others. For example, do not wear strong perfumes or scented products such as lotions or deodorants that will bother others with allergies or asthma. Never put such products on in class.
3. Respect the space of others. Stay in your own space.
4. Respect Telesis property and the property of others by not causing damage.
5. Keep the aisles as clear as possible. Keep your backpack close to your desk.
6. Cell Phones or other electronic equipment will be confiscated if seen or used in the classroom. (See Handbook)
7. Be here. Excessive absences will result in a reduction of your grade. Five absences will reduce your final grade by 10% (all JA/Academy school policy).
8. It is your responsibility to ask me for missed work due to an absence. You have until the following day to make it up, so don’t forget to ask for make-up work on the day you return (all JA/Academy school policy).
9. Be punctual. Three tardies will equal one absence (all JA/Academy school policy).
10. Be attentive. If I am talking to the class, you should not be talking. If another student has permission to talk, you should not be talking. Do not talk to friends when there is some time between activities. Use that time to study or read.
11. To show your attentiveness, you must sit up straight. You may not lay your head on the desk.
12. Stay in your seat unless I give you permission to get up.
13. When you raise your hand to speak, wait until I call on you to start talking.
14. No bathroom passes will be allowed except for emergencies. You are to use the seven-minute break between classes and the lunch period to go to the restroom and get a drink (all JA/Academy policy).
15. You may not leave the room to get a drink (all JA/Academy policy). You are to bring your own water bottle. You may drink water in the classroom but nothing else (for example, sodas, sports or energy drinks).
16. Absolutely no gum chewing in class (or on campus anywhere -- see student handbook). If you are found chewing gum in this class, you mayreceive a detention. No food in the classroom.
17. Be responsible in doing your work and handing it in on time. The school policy is that no late work will be accepted.
18. Stay on task and participate fully in class discussions, group work, drills, activities, and writing projects.
19. Be sure your work is legible so that I can read it easily. If I have to struggle to decipher your writing, I will not give you full credit and you will have to do it over. You may type out-of-class assignments.
20. Bring a pen, pencil, and paper to class every day. a) Have them out and ready before the bell rings. b) Pencils must be sharpened before the bell rings. c) Use paper with smooth edges. Do not tear paper out of spiral binders, leaving rough edges. d) If you do not have the materials you need for class to do your work, you will receive a zero for the day’s work and will still have to complete the assignment at home. e) You may purchase supplies from Mr. Dornton. Additional items that are helpful are white out, a pen with green ink, and a one-page, 3-hole punch that fits in the notebook.
21. Bring your Accelerated Reading Book to school every day. If you do not have it when you are asked to spend class time reading, you may have a 30-minute detention the following day, which you will spend reading your AR book. We now have quizzes for all AR books, so you may purchase books on the AR list or get books from the public library in addition to the ones we have here. Go to renlearn.com and on the first page select “book orders” to find the books we have tests for. However, you are not to read your AR book if you have ANY Spanish assignments due.
22. You will need 8 flat folders with horizontal pockets wide enough to hold notebook paper: Folders may be any color or school-appropriate design except black. We will put your name on them and label them in class. I may call for your folders at any time, but they will always be turned in at the end of a grading period or for parent conferences. Cost can be as low as 20 cents each.
23. Journal entries will be confidential unless you write something school policy requires me to report. I may ask you to share parts of writing assignments with a study partner or with the class.
24. Put a complete heading on all papers (first and last name, date, class name, assignment name).
25. Academic Dishonesty (cheating or plagiarism) is not acceptable. In addition to the consequences outlined in the student handbook, in this class you will receive a zero on the assignment and your parents will be notified.
26. All policies of the Telesis Handbook will be enforced.
27. Spanish classes have homework every night. There is always vocabulary to study and quizzes almost every day. That is why it is essential that students be prepared to work as soon as they enter the class room.
28. The state of Arizona has formulated strong, essential standards for each subject area and each level, so we have much work to do. By following the above policies, we will have the opportunity to accomplish our work in an orderly, safe, and positive environment where all students can be successful as they learn.
Spanish Class Folders Labels
1. Journal (Entries)
2. Workbooks: Practice and Grammar
3. Schedule/Vocabulary/Test Guides
4. Reading Summaries: Esperanza, Stories from Spain
5. Final Spain Report: Information and Portfolio
6. Destinos Information
7. Miscellalneous Activities/Extra Points: Video Work Sheets, Handouts
8. Final Speech: Information
Friday, February 15, 2008
Why Should Students Study Spanish?
Spanish is a good language to start with. First, the Defense Language Institute says it is the easiest language for Americans to learn. In addition, Mexico is our neighbor, and most countries that share borders learn each other’s languages. Finally, Spanish is among the top five languages in the world, spoken by some 332 million native speakers. Spanish is the language spoken in Mexico and most other South and Central American countries, as well as Spain, Cuba and Puerto Rico—approximately 20 countries in all. In fact, the United States is the fifth largest Spanish-speaking country in the world. And yes, all those people speak the same Spanish and can understand each other. The differences are the same as those we see in English spoken by Americans (from Southerners to New Yorkers), by Australians, and by folks from England. There are differences in vocabulary terms and accents, but understandable differences (Puntos 10).
Why Should Students Study a Second Language?
To learn a second language is to extend the borders of one’s world;
To embrace another culture is to expand the boundaries of brother hood.
There are many reasons for learning a second language. For example, studies show that learning a second language enhances a student’s learning ability in other academic areas. In addition, the world we live in is producing a global economy. People who can adapt easily to other cultures and learn other languages will be in demand. Students who work hard at learning well that first “second” language can much more easily go on and master it at the college level or in vocational training. Or they will have prepared their minds for language learning and can more easily move into learning a different language. Each year of language prepares students to move on to the next level and to the next leg of the language-learning journey.
To embrace another culture is to expand the boundaries of brother hood.
There are many reasons for learning a second language. For example, studies show that learning a second language enhances a student’s learning ability in other academic areas. In addition, the world we live in is producing a global economy. People who can adapt easily to other cultures and learn other languages will be in demand. Students who work hard at learning well that first “second” language can much more easily go on and master it at the college level or in vocational training. Or they will have prepared their minds for language learning and can more easily move into learning a different language. Each year of language prepares students to move on to the next level and to the next leg of the language-learning journey.
The Telesis Language Program
When we start our children out on the road to language learning at an early age, it is a fun journey--easy, natural, and non-threatening. Starting early also makes it easier for our children to continue their language learning at the Junior Academy and Academy levels.
The Telesis Language Program is unique in Lake Havasu City. Students at Telesis have the opportunity to study language for twelve years. Developmental Kindergarten, Early Elementary, and Elementary students have Spanish once a week for thirty minutes while Intermediate students have Spanish once a week for forty-five minutes. Throughout the program, we continually make adjustments and review material already covered so that students who are new to our program are not at a disadvantage while students who have been with us multiple years will still have some challenges.
Junior Academy students have two years of Spanish as a regular course, a required elective. With seven years of lower-level Spanish under their belts, Junior Academy students have the opportunity to build on that foundation in order to truly learn and use a language--not just to study it. (However, students who have not had that foundation will not be penalized since JA Spanish starts with the basics.)
In addition, since learning a language involves much more than just learning words, all Telesis Spanish classes, but especially Junior Academy classes, are also learning about aspects of Hispanic culture: about countries, living conditions, customs, artists, writers, music, and foods, for example.
Finally, Academy students may continue with Spanish or go on to study any of twenty-six other languages to meet the Telesis two-year language requirement for graduation. Academy students have such a wide choice because they have the unique opportunity to study language through the teacher-supervised Rosetta Stone on-line program.
Telesis students, therefore, have many opportunities to learn language. Nevertheless, to receive the most benefit from the language classes, it is up to each individual student to seize the opportunity to learn well the new vocabulary and the intricacies of a foreign grammar and to seek out opportunities to communicate in the language.
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