About this Class

This class is taught by optimizing immersion using the TPRS® method. Our class activities are designed to provide students with many opportunities to be involved in the Spanish language at or just above their level of understanding. Each language-building activity is designed to introduce or strengthen the understanding of high frequency words and phrases in Spanish.

1. What is TPRS?

TPRS® stands for Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling. It is based on the idea that the brain needs an enormous amount of “comprehensible input” in the language. We choose the most commonly used words and phrases and use them in stories, conversations and other activities. Everything we talk about in the target language is understood by the students.

2. What does a TPRS class look like?

It sounds like a lot of Spanish! Some typical activities are:

Storytelling The teacher starts with the outline of a story and asks the class large numbers of questions that 1) ensure that the class understands the language and 2) add personalized, interesting (and sometimes very funny!) details to the story.
Story writing Students will write retells and original stories from outlines, templates, songs or partially-written stories. This may be a class, group, pair, or individual activity.
Reading We read stories created in class, stories created by other classes, summaries and stories written by the teacher, stories written by individual students, ads and articles from magazines/newspapers, children’s books, and short novels written for TPRS® classrooms.
Games We have a number of games based on comprehensible input that help students to acquire language and create strong, positive relationships within the classroom environment.
Projects There are opportunities each grading period for students to use art and technology to learn and share information about language and culture.
Video viewing We will be watching several video clips this year. Some will be in Spanish, others in English. There are always activities in Spanish for each movie.

3. How are students graded?

Tests are given with notice and preparation and study guides and notes. These tests are unit exams that follow the curriculum of each level. There are summative tests given at the end of each semester and formative tests given when appropriate.

Quizzes/projects are given with and without notice. The students may be required to demonstrate their ability to read, speak, write, or listen in Spanish. They may also be required to identify vocabulary or explain cultural/historical information. Quizzes will vary in frequency and form based on the learning standards of each class.

Homework is graded on a regular basis through notebook checks. It may take the form of translation, answering questions, illustrations, flash cards, or story-writing. Any assignments completed in class or for homework may be collected, graded and recorded. Homework may be assigned infrequently due to the nature and importance of in class work.

Participation is necessary in Spanish class and the single most important factor for student success. Students will be required to pay attention on a daily basis and should come to class ready to be active participants. Participation will account for 25% of student overall grade. This grade is determined through in-class assignments and student behavior.

4. How can parents help?

Any time you show interest in and support for your child’s school work, you help. Ask your child to share the stories and other activities that we have done in class! Encourage students to tell the teacher whenever there is confusion or stress about the class or the work. Be willing to listen and ask questions when students share stories.

Materials

CI / TPRS lessons, activities, novels

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