1) Will my child be able to have a conversation by the end of the class?
-As a 1st year Spanish student, your child will be able to hold a very simple introductory conversation and they will be able to use context and clarifying questions to understand much more than they can output. Spanish 1 focuses on input of language so that as the student continues they can increase their output.
2) Will students be given a Spanish name in class?
-No! Names are part of our identity, therefore, they do not translate. Some names are "easier" for native English speakers to pronounce and others are more difficult. Either way, a language cannot "change" a name, even if it is more difficult to pronounce for a nonnative.
3) How do you make appointments for extra help?
To make an appointment for extra help or make up tests, please email Mrs. Veloz at aveloz@greenville.k12.sc.us
4) How can I help my child learn at home?
-Input, input, input! Practice Practice Practice! Students can watch simple shows in Spanish (youtube, netflix etc) or check out books from the library. Listening to Spanish music and trying to practice speaking Spanish will help so much. Apps like Duolingo or Babble are also helpful to increase vocabulary. Any extra input is good input!
5) What if my child is just not good at Spanish?
-Everyone has the ability to learn language! Humans are designed with a "Language Acquisition Device" and can create meaning. With a variety of learning styles and engaging content, I believe everyone can learn! Students are given lots of practice and repetition in no-risk environments to help them produce exactly what they need.
6) Will students be taught "Spain" Spanish or variants from other countries?
-Students will be exposed to all variants and dialects of the langauge. Spanish exists in so many parts of the world and is constantly evolving. While students will not be required to know every single translation of every word, they will be at least told about other ways to communicate the same thing.