Why Immersion?

Language is not a skill that can be learned....... wait, what?!  Yep, you read that right!  Humans do NOT learn languages.  We acquire them.  Language is an instinct, an innate ability that we pick up on naturally because we are human.  Language is not something to be learned like math or reading.  It is not facts or letter sounds to be memorized.

When we memorize vocabulary and complete grammar drills, we are learning about the language, not gaining the ability to use it for actual communication.  If you want to communicate in a language, you need to practice communicating!  Have you ever heard someone say they are bad at learning language?  or that they took Spanish for 4 years in high school and still couldn't speak it?  Maybe you have said these things about yourself.  It's because all of that class time, or most of it at least, was likely spent learning about the language, not actually acquiring it!

So, since we can’t learn languages, we can’t teach them!  Instead, as 'teachers' we guide you to understanding by creating an environment that allows the student to acquire the language naturally.  This is done best through complete immersion with a skilled guide who understands how to make language meaningful, engaging and interactive.

So just how do we acquire language if we can’t learn it or be taught?  According to Stephen Krashen (probably the most influential linguist of the past century!), we acquire language when:

• we are exposed to an abundance of language.
  (We conduct classes entirely in Spanish and offer take-home resources to maximize exposure)
• we understand the message of the language.
  (We use developmentally appropriate activities to help students understand and communicate.)
• we are allowed to silently observe and interact.
  (None of our activities require students to speak but all offer the opportunity.)
• we are not pushed to speak until we are ready.
  (We encourage students as they are able, but never require students to speak.)
• we have just the right amount of challenge.
  (We carefully balance many factors to ensure just the right amount of challenge for each student.)
• we are relaxed, stress-free and having fun!
  (Irresistible activities make our classes engaging and enjoyable