¡Hola!  We are very excited to be starting a new year of Spanish instruction.

How will the program be implemented?

There will be world language classes twice every six days for 40 minutes.

Will my child receive homework in Spanish?

No written homework will be assigned.  We encourage the students to share with you what is learned in class.  Also, there are a variety of resources in our staff webpages, at the OHES website, that you may use with your child to reinforce and practice what is learned in class.

When will the students begin to write and read in Spanish?

Our classes are based on research on how a child acquires a second language.  Emphasis is place on communication beginning with listening comprehension.  By imitating us the students develop the ability to mimic and speak in words.  Later on as they progress they are able to speak in sentences.

What is the “Silent Period” of second language acquisition?

The “Silent Period” is when a child is absorbing the language without producing it.  When your child learned his first language he understood before speaking.  The same is true in second language acquisition.  We enable the child to understand by using pictures, actions, gestures, regalia, games, videos and TPR (Total Physical Response) commands.  Do not expect your child to initially produce the language.  Our goal is for your child to communicate in the language, not to do verb drills and translate.  We hope that your child will be a successful language learner who can take the knowledge and use it to communicate.

Will my child receive tests and quizzes?

Your child will receive evaluation or assessment activities.  The purpose of these is to determine how well we are meeting our program objectives.

Will my child need additional practice, or do I need to get a tutor?

Absolutely not! This is an introductory program.  Your child will develop proficiency at his own rate. 

Gracias (Thank you),     Sra. Stuart