Click here to read the NYTimes article:
Why Bilinguals Are Smarter
Why learn a World Language?
Did you know that learning in the 21st century requires you to be able to communicate effectively, not only in English but in other languages as well?
Research shows that second language study offers many benefits to students in terms of improved communicative ability, cognitive development, cultural awareness, and job opportunities. (Source: Center for Applied Linguistics).
Why learn Spanish (over another language)?
Well, think about this. In a recent article in the NY Post, it states that "the US Census Office suggests that the US will have an estimated 138 million Spanish speakers by 2050 — which would make it the biggest Spanish-speaking nation on Earth." That is only 30 years away! That is the era when you (my students) will be in full-workforce-mode. Think about how many people you will need to communicate with in Spanish at work and for fun!
Did you know that learning in the 21st century requires you to be able to communicate effectively, not only in English but in other languages as well?
Research shows that second language study offers many benefits to students in terms of improved communicative ability, cognitive development, cultural awareness, and job opportunities. (Source: Center for Applied Linguistics).
Why learn Spanish (over another language)?
Well, think about this. In a recent article in the NY Post, it states that "the US Census Office suggests that the US will have an estimated 138 million Spanish speakers by 2050 — which would make it the biggest Spanish-speaking nation on Earth." That is only 30 years away! That is the era when you (my students) will be in full-workforce-mode. Think about how many people you will need to communicate with in Spanish at work and for fun!
Watch ELLen Degeneres in Spanish class!
What does Spanish World Language
at Menlo Park School District look like?
The Menlo Park City School District Spanish World Language program aligns with the World Language Content Standards for California Public Schools and the ACTFL World Readiness Standards for Learning Languages. Additionally, we blend the Common Core State Standards with college and career readiness, as well as prepare our students for 21st century skills.
Will my Spanish class be boring?
No! In elementary school, learning a new language should be fun and highly interactive. Students process language best when vocabulary and grammar are taught in context. Spanish comes alive for the students through guided conversations, literature, cultural studies, dance, drama, songs, interactive games, projects and presentations, In addition, bilingual assemblies and cultural festivals are scheduled throughout the year to celebrate Latin American and Spanish heritage.
Below is a breakdown of the MPCSD Spanish WL program:
Daily Spanish Instruction
Will my Spanish class be boring?
No! In elementary school, learning a new language should be fun and highly interactive. Students process language best when vocabulary and grammar are taught in context. Spanish comes alive for the students through guided conversations, literature, cultural studies, dance, drama, songs, interactive games, projects and presentations, In addition, bilingual assemblies and cultural festivals are scheduled throughout the year to celebrate Latin American and Spanish heritage.
Below is a breakdown of the MPCSD Spanish WL program:
Daily Spanish Instruction
- Students receive 60 minutes of Spanish a week
- Teacher taps into key vocabulary and grammar concepts through Comprehensible Input strategies, reading authentic texts, games, TPRS (total physical response through story-telling), drama, music, literature, dance and technology.
- Classes incorporate reading, writing, listening comprehension, guided conversations, project based assignments, and plays/presentations.
- Students engage in various cross-cultural studies of Spanish-speaking countries throughout the year
- Classes are exposed to cultural aspects around the world such as: Latin/Spanish traditions, songs, dances and history, where students then compare and contrast these with their own culture/lives.
- Independent Study:
- Independent Reading: Students always have the ability to read authentic Spanish magazines and newspapers in the classroom, and if they ask permission, they may check out a magazine or newspaper for further reading outside of class.
- Technology: Our Spanish classes integrate technology to further reinforce authentic language learning. Students have the option to further their studies at home by visiting my class website malonespanish.weebly.com, www.conjuguemos.com, www.senorwooly.com, Duolingo, and other sites I expose them to.