academia d\'amore description

$: ACADEMIA D\'AMORE DESCRIPTION$
Academia de Español D’Amore

[email protected]

ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORESpanish Immersion Program

Our programs offer students the opportunity to learn Spanish and to discover our culture

first-hand.

SPANISH PROGRAM Intensive Spanish classes, homestay with carefully selected Queposafternoon Latin dance, Costa Rican cooking and ccultural activities. Class schedules are given by the school, depends on your Spanlevel, we place you in class morning or afternoon time. � OPEN ENROLLMENT

Mondays every week of the year.� SHORT & LONG TERM COURSES

one week up to six months).� HOURS OF INSTRUCTION

everyday. � SMALL GROUPS: Spanish classes are offered in small groups with an average of 4

students (max. 5). Individual classes and special packages for groups are aavailable.

OUR METHODOLOGYAt ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORE we believe that only when Spanish lessons are interesting, functional, and fun to do is it possible to learn quickly and easily. Consequently, the essence of our courses is a varied and dynamic teaching approach. Our aim is to teach classes that are intensive, yet challenging and enjoyable. Academia de Español D’Amore, in existence for seventeen years, is a educational institution created to facilitate the learning of Spanish it offers six specific levels of Spanish proficiency to guarantee the students an appropriate placement. Our methodology is based on the whole language immersion method of learning; therefore the professors conduct the lessons completely in Spanish. It calls for active participation from our students. Our practical courses enable the students to communicate, comprehend and use accurate pronunciation in Spanish as quickly as possible.

Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com

[email protected] - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367

ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORESpanish Immersion Program


SPANISH PROGRAM INCLUDES: Intensive Spanish classes, homestay with carefully selected Quepos-Costa Rican families, afternoon Latin dance, Costa Rican cooking and conversation classes, excursions and

Class schedules are given by the school, depends on your Spanlevel, we place you in class morning or afternoon time.

OPEN ENROLLMENT: Spanish courses are offered year round. New classes start on Mondays every week of the year. SHORT & LONG TERM COURSES: You may choose the length of the program (from

p to six months). HOURS OF INSTRUCTION: Four hours a day, plus one free conversation hour

: Spanish classes are offered in small groups with an average of 4students (max. 5). Individual classes and special packages for groups are a

OUR METHODOLOGY At ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORE we believe that only when Spanish lessons are interesting, functional, and fun to do is it possible to learn quickly and easily. Consequently, the essence of our courses is a varied and dynamic teaching approach. Our aim is o teach classes that are intensive, yet challenging

Academia de Español D’Amore, in years, is a high quality

educational institution created to facilitate the learning of Spanish it offers six specific levels of

anish proficiency to guarantee the students an

Our methodology is based on the whole language immersion method of learning; therefore the professors conduct the lessons completely in Spanish. It calls for active participation

m our students. Our practical courses enable the students to communicate, comprehend and use accurate pronunciation in Spanish as quickly as possible.

www.academiadamore.com –

Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598

ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORE Spanish Immersion Program


osta Rican families, onversation classes, excursions and

Class schedules are given by the school, depends on your Spanish

: Spanish courses are offered year round. New classes start on

You may choose the length of the program (from

: Four hours a day, plus one free conversation hour

: Spanish classes are offered in small groups with an average of 4-5 students (max. 5). Individual classes and special packages for groups are also

At ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORE we believe that only when Spanish lessons are interesting, functional, and fun to do is it possible to learn quickly and easily.

the professors conduct the lessons completely in Spanish. It calls for active participation m our students. Our practical courses enable the students to communicate,

comprehend and use accurate pronunciation in Spanish as quickly as possible.


[email protected]

The intimate classroom setting and particular training methodology provide the flexibility to adapt our teaching style and approach to meet your individual needs. All our classes emphasize speaking abilities, but we consider the Spanish language as a whole; therefore, our methodology takes into account its different components: grammar, vocabulary, prouse.

SPANISH CLASSESOur Spanish classes usually consist of 4 to 5 students

the class. This information helps our Academic Director determine and decide, along with the student, the steps for reaching his/her language goals.

We provide four levels of Spanish instruction:

� Beginners I, II � Intermediate I, II � Advanced I, II � Specialized courses

� Beginner Level

Beginner's course I, II has been designed to provide an introduction to elementary Spanish. The primary objective of acquire communication skills in what we call "Survival Spanish". Functions include: asking/giving directions, using appropriate greetings, introductions and courtesy expressions as well as being able to cvisiting a bank, restaurant, or other public places. Furthermore students should be able to give their personal information, and talk about personal preferences and activities in growing details.



The intimate classroom setting and particular training methodology provide the r teaching style and approach to meet your individual needs.

All our classes emphasize speaking abilities, but we consider the Spanish language as a whole; therefore, our methodology takes into account its different components: grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, cultural understanding and pragmatic

SPANISH CLASSES Our Spanish classes usually consist of 4 to 5 students-never more than six. This intimate

class size helps us tailor our programs to specific needs of the student our teaching methodology to style. Student will be placed in classes according to the Spanish proficiency level, which is determined by a written test sent by email and an oral evaluation exam classes. The Spanish level will be confirmed by the instructor of the class performance during the class. Throughout the course will be assessed daily by theAcademic Director. Every day instructors hand in a progress report for each student in

the class. This information helps our Academic Director determine and decide, along with the student, the steps for reaching his/her language goals.

We provide four levels of Spanish instruction:

Specialized courses

Beginner's course I, II has been designed to provide an introduction to elementary Spanish. The primary objective of this course is to offer students the opportunity to acquire communication skills in what we call "Survival Spanish". Functions include: asking/giving directions, using appropriate greetings, introductions and courtesy expressions as well as being able to communicate in different situations such as visiting a bank, restaurant, or other public places. Furthermore students should be able to give their personal information, and talk about personal preferences and activities in growing details.



The intimate classroom setting and particular training methodology provide the r teaching style and approach to meet your individual needs.

All our classes emphasize speaking abilities, but we consider the Spanish language as a whole; therefore, our methodology takes into account its different

nunciation, cultural understanding and pragmatic

never more than six. This intimate class size helps us tailor our programs to

of the student and to adapt our teaching methodology to each learning

will be placed in classes Spanish proficiency level,

which is determined by a written test sent by email and an oral evaluation exam first day of

vel will be confirmed of the class based on the

performance during the class. course the progress

the teacher and our Academic Director. Every day instructors hand in a progress report for each student in

the class. This information helps our Academic Director determine and decide, along with

Beginner's course I, II has been designed to provide an introduction to elementary this course is to offer students the opportunity to

acquire communication skills in what we call "Survival Spanish". Functions include: asking/giving directions, using appropriate greetings, introductions and courtesy

ommunicate in different situations such as visiting a bank, restaurant, or other public places. Furthermore students should be able to give their personal information, and talk about personal preferences and

Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –

[email protected] - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598

As a Beginning student, you will study basic sentence structures, learn everyday vocabulary and develop the ability to clearly communicate basic ideas in Spanish.

� Intermediate Level

The intermediate course is divided into Intermediate I, II and covers most grammatical structures, which will give students the tools needed to achieve more confidence and fluency when using the language. Students will learn these grammatical structures, while improving vocabulary, pronunciation, comprehension, as well as written and oral skills. At this level the students learn to use different compensation strategies to communicate their ideas when they do not know the exact structure or word that should be used. Students will also be able to hold conversations on various topics with native Spanish speakers, using the appropriate forms for each situation. This course

emphasizes on Cultural aspects of the language and its real usage. Course emphasis is on culturally authentic reading and writing, along with continued development of listening/speaking competencies.

� Advanced Level

This course includes the study of advanced Spanish grammar. The student should begin to master complex syntactical and morphological structures and special differences used in the language. In addition, the students will face current topics and conversations with a higher level of complexity and abstract thought in order to improve considerably in fluency and precision. This level includes cultural, social and historical aspects on different Hispanic speaking countries as a way to explain the

relationship between language, history and culture. The objective of this course is the proficiency and fluency in the Spanish language. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the comprehension and use of the language in unrehearsed situations in culturally appropriate ways.

SPECIALIZED SPANISH COURSES

We also offer medical Spanish for nurses or doctors, business Spanish, Spanish for lawyers and special courses for Spanish teachers. If the student already speaks fluent Spanish, Academia de Español D’Amore offers the opportunity to improve the ability to converse in Spanish. We help students to achieve an understanding of the technical structure of Spanish, as it relates to the specific interests. Student will learn more about our culture and its impact on the language.



If the student is a Spanish Language teacher or studying for this profession, we offer private courses providing additional training. We discuss Latin American history and literature, focusing on textual and advanced grammatical analysis, composition and literary style. You may select the area in which you would like to specialize, and then our Spanish Language Coordinator will work closely with you to develop your own program.

� Spanish Language Course for Medical Professionals This course is designed for health care professionals who need to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients and their families as part of their daily work. It caters to various types of medical personnel including doctors, medical students, nurses, paramedics and can be adapted to each student’s specific needs. This specialized course is offered as a supplement to a general Spanish language

curriculum specially selected for each student’s level. Together, these courses facilitate effective communication between provider and patient within the health care setting. Students will benefit more from this course if they have reached at least an intermediate level in Spanish, after attending a regular group class program at Academia de Español D’Amore. Academia de Español D’Amore

has designed the text carefully used in classes, in order to allow students to become familiar with the Spanish medical vocabulary and have the necessary tools to interview patients, explain or discuss various medical topics, and also act as interpreter, if required. The Medical Spanish course is offered through private tutoring; depending on the month student attends, classes are offered in the morning and afternoon. Occasionally students have the opportunity to further solidify language skills through work at local clinics and hospitals with Costa Rican medical staff. However, we cannot guarantee that you will able to participate as a volunteer or intern in a medical facility in Quepos-Costa Rica.

� Spanish Language Course for Teachers This course is designed for Spanish teachers or those studying to become teachers. The main objective is to improve their skills in three specific areas:

Oral communication – fluency, pronunciation, structures and social, regional and stylistic variations of the language.

Culture – includes various cultural differences, based on the study of current topics in Latin American literature and mass media communication.

Grammatical precision – widens use of structures, taking into account differences in style and the purpose of the message. Written


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communication is studied in detail, considering formal aspects such as cohesion, coherence and precision.

The course provides Spaniimprove their knowledge (linguistic and cultural), and to share their experiences in the classroom with native Spanish speakers who definitely guarantee a better professional, who basis, applying training received at our school.

� SPANISH CLASSES BY THE HOUR (without Homestay)

Academia de Español D’Amore offers ten hours a week giving the students the osessions of Latinconversation hour.

Materials In accordance with our teaching experience and specific needs of our students, teachers have produced our own teaching material, which includes games, charts, flashcards, audio tapes and an original and special student book.

HOMESTAY WITH Our families are carefully selected for their friendliness and warmth. They all offer clean lodging in safe neighborhoods. Homestays are an excellent way to immerse in Costa Rican culture. As part of the family, everyday and learn first-hand about the Costa Rican way of lifewith a family for a minimum of one week or as l You may also participate in our outside excursions, social and cultural actiSome of these are available at an additional charge, which varies according to the type of activity.

SPANISH CLASS SCHEDULEMorning classes start at 8:30a.m. and run until 12:30 noon. Then there is a free conversation class hour from 12:30 to 1.30classes are from 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. (for students receiving 4hrs/day). After their Spanish classes the students participate in the afternoon cultural activities (it will depends on how many students are participating):

� Latin dance classes (



communication is studied in detail, considering formal aspects such as cohesion, coherence and precision.

The course provides Spanish teachers the opportunity to considerably improve their knowledge (linguistic and cultural), and to share their experiences in the classroom with native Spanish speakers who work in the same field. Classesdefinitely guarantee a better professional, who will improve performance on a daily basis, applying training received at our school.

SPANISH CLASSES BY THE HOUR (without Homestay)

Academia de Español D’Amore offers private tutories. It consist in a minimum of ten hours a week giving the students the opportunity to participate in

Latin dance classes, Costa Rican cooking classes and our

In accordance with our teaching experience and specific needs of our students, have produced our own teaching material, which includes games, charts,

flashcards, audio tapes and an original and special student book.

HOMESTAY WITH QUEPOS-COSTA RICAN FAMILIESOur families are carefully selected for their friendliness and warmth. They all offer clean lodging in safe neighborhoods. Homestays are an excellent way to immerse in Costa Rican culture. As part of the family, students will practice speaking

hand about the Costa Rican way of life and culturewith a family for a minimum of one week or as long as the program you choose.

You may also participate in our outside excursions, social and cultural actiSome of these are available at an additional charge, which varies according to the type of

SPANISH CLASS SCHEDULE Morning classes start at 8:30a.m. and run until 12:30 noon. Then there is a free conversation class hour from 12:30 to 1.30 pm. Afternoon

5:30 p.m. (for students

After their Spanish classes the students participate in the afternoon cultural activities (it will depends on how many students are

Latin dance classes (Tuesday from 3:00 - 4:00 pm.)



communication is studied in detail, considering formal aspects such as

sh teachers the opportunity to considerably improve their knowledge (linguistic and cultural), and to share their experiences in

work in the same field. Classes will improve performance on a daily

It consist in a minimum of participate in our group

dance classes, Costa Rican cooking classes and our

In accordance with our teaching experience and specific needs of our students, our have produced our own teaching material, which includes games, charts,

COSTA RICAN FAMILIES Our families are carefully selected for their friendliness and warmth. They all offer clean lodging in safe neighborhoods. Homestays are an excellent way to immerse the students

will practice speaking Spanish and culture. You can stay

ong as the program you choose. You may also participate in our outside excursions, social and cultural activities.

participate in the afternoon cultural activities (it will depends on how many students are



� Cooking classes (Wednesdays from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.) � Conversation classes (a free conversation class from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.)

Classes are conducted completely in Spanish. This is the ideal setting to improve your conversation skills and fluency. Therefore, we have designed our classes to ensure maximum student participation. Our homestay program, conversation classes and the school's friendly atmosphere also provide additional opportunities for conversation. In addition to activities and classes with the school, you may also participate in activities outside Academia de Español D’Amore during your free time such as:

� Visits to “Feria” on Fridays nights, and local markets. � Night outings to local discotheques and dance clubs. � Night outings to restaurants, bars and theaters located near the school. � Weekend excursions to beaches, rain forests, volcanoes and National Parks.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

Description of Volunteer Program at Academia de Español D’Amore

One week to one year projects in Quepos, Costa Rica. Includes: Spanish lessons, project set-up, room and board with host family, cultural activities, excursions, airport pick up/transfer, pre-departure and local support. Academia de Español D’Amore plans the all trip for you, so you can be safe and comfortable while you maximize your time lending a hand to help the local community and gain a new perspective of your own life! We offer a wide variety of volunteer projects, including: social services, orphanage & shelter assistance, construction/maintenance, health/medical/dental, administrative, public policy, economy/business, education/tutoring, environment/ecology. Study Spanish with us and volunteer helping the elderly or handicapped children while with us or in one of the national parks of Costa Rica after you have finished you Spanish course. Volunteers come from the ranks of students or young professionals who have the desire to contribute to a third world country development while experiencing life in a Latin culture. Volunteer Types Childcare/children - Working with Special Needs Children. This project assists the Foundation Roberta Felix in developing and staffing resources for disabled children in rural communities of Costa Rica. Health Care - Community Centers – Seniors - Working with the Elderly. Lead residents at an elderly care center in various activities, help them cook, distribute food, teach English,



and help them garden. Caring for the elderly helps create a compassionate and nurturing atmosphere at homes for the elderly and senior centers. Natural Resources - Parks- Study with Academia de Español D’Amore and volunteer in one of the National Parks of Costa Rica before or after your study program. By joining this pioneering programme as a volunteer, you will have a positive impact on the lives of disabled children, the elderly, and the preservation of National Parks and learn or improve your Spanish and explore many of Costa Rica's tourist attractions.

Qualifications

� You must be at least 18 years of age, or with parental consent � Enjoy providing service and working with others, flexible in attitude, in good health and

have a desire to contribute � Capable to live and work in basic and sparse conditions, resilience to work in tropical

conditions, and adaptability to relate with a new culture � Speak at least minimal Spanish � Compliance with the rules and procedures of the volunteer program as established by

the National System of Conservation Areas � Two photographs passport-size � Copy of your passport � Filled out application � Medical insurance � Studying Spanish at Academia de Español D’Amore is a requirement

This Program is open to: Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Academia de Español D’Amore's Mission Statement

Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center is distinguished by its determination to provide an exciting education through adventure, culture, and language learning.

Program Fees Include:

� 20 hours of Spanish lessons in a group per week

� Homestay with 2 meals a day � Two to three hours of volunteer work per day � Registration fees and course materials � Cultural activities (one free surf or yoga

lesson per stay, dance-once a week, folkloric evening once a month)

� Placement oral test � Free break time refreshments � Free wireless and internet service at school � Basic accommodations and 3 meals a day at the National Parks



Highlights

� Practical experience in the area in which you are interested

� Hands-on practice to improve and practice your inter-cultural and communication skills

� A reference from your volunteer organization at the end of your term

� A broader perspective on world views � Chance to learn other foreign cultural

activities (i.e. art, cooking, crafts, dancing, etc.) � Memorable experiences while traveling and seeing exotic sites � Lifelong friends from all around the globe � Advantages to your career path exemplifying your experiences, diligence,

independence, and inter-cultural communications � Support and development of self-confidence and personal skills

UNIVERSITY CREDITS Many of our students have received college credit for their studies at Academia de Español D’Amore. Most of these students come on their own and apply for credit independently at different universities in the U.S., Canada and Europe. This is usually the most economical option. In order to meet the requirements for credit we provide students and universities with the following documents: After completing the course: a

certificate of attendance and a letter stating the Spanish level and type of course received.

Confirmation of enrollment A transcript of their grades, including the total amount of hours completed. Usually, students who are applying for credit must first have approval from their university prior to beginning studies at Academia de Español D’Amore. Most institutions also require that students take a final exam and receive an evaluation of their work & progress during the course. However, each university or college has a somewhat different system for granting credit so if a student is interested in this option, we can work with their Spanish or Study Abroad department to set up a program that will meet their specific credit requirements.



FIRST DAY OF CLASS

On the first day of class we require students to be at the school at 8:30 am so that we can make an oral evaluation to determine their Spanish level (placement test). We also give them information, a student card with telephone number and exact address of the homestay (for giving a taxi driver), and general orientation. On the first day of class the host family will pick the students up to Academia de Español D’Amore after classes, accompany the student and make sure that the student knows how to get to the school and back home. (It is usually a short 10-15 minute easy bus ride. Students catch the bus at the local bus station and it drops them in front or our school. Public bus is very easy to use, very cheap (about 0.50 cents) and they run every 15 minutes all day long. If students go out at night we recommend that they take a taxi back home (taxis are also cheap $6).

academia d\'amore description

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