Wednesday, Sep 08 2010

 

Free Contest! Use our contest box to enter to win a free Spanish language trip to ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA! Contact Language Link at 800.552.2051 or info@langlink.com.

Please carefully check the fees listed by competitive agencies. Even with their advertised discounts and special offers, because they add on other fees (often $100 or more), our total cost will (almost) always be less. Through us you pay what you would pay by registering directly with the school.

Course Information

School

The school offers high quality teaching with a personal approach. They aim to create an open and dynamic form of learning, based on flexibility, combined with communication and formal reflection, continually focusing on the specific needs of each student. All classes have a maximum of 8 students, which allows for individualized attention. The student has the opportunity to develop their language abilities by putting into practise listening, reading, speaking and writing skills through natural methods. Students are encouraged to use the language practically from the beginning, through conversation, media articles, television, music, etc, while still concentrating on the fundamental basics and set objectives. 

 

Students

The student population is extremely diverse particularly in regards to geography.

On the one hand you have diversity in age, nationality and culture which provokes dynamism and interest in the classroom, on the other hand you have a common interest, is that you are all here to learn Spanish. The intensity of our courses ensures that you will develop your language skills quickly and completely, and at the same time form relationships with fellow students and teachers that will leave you with friends for life.
 

Courses

IDEA offers a variety of courses to meet student needs.

  • Intensive 20: This course consists of 20 hours per week and is suitable for all levels from beginners to advanced. The aim of these classes is to develop a good level of linguistic competency from the beginning, concentrating on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. The course consists of varied activities using a number of different materials such as videos, DVD, books, magazines, newspapers, games, etc. Classes are designed to maximise the use of conversational Spanish and introduce colloquial expressions.
  • Superintensive 25: The Intensive course of 25 hours per week is designed for those who wish to maximise the use of their time. An additional 5 hours per week are used to reinforce and amplify the topics covered in the general course. These classes play an important role in improving the level of communication, competency and fluency.
  • Spanish and Latin American Culture: These 5 hours per week focus on various themes relating to Spanish and Latin American culture. In order to fully understand a language it is important to learn the culture and way of life of the people. In these classes we offer the opportunity to learn more about the history, art, geography, customs, music and gastronomy of the Spanish and Latin American communities.
  • DELE: This is the only official qualification recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Education for Spanish as a foreign language. It has three levels - Initial, Basic and Superior. The course consists of 25 hours per week and focuses on preparation for the exam which takes place in Granada twice a year in May and November. Classes are specifically designed to cover all sections of the exam and offer you the chance to practise with past papers. To take the Basic exam you will need to already have an intermediate level of Spanish and for the Superior you will need to have an advanced level of Spanish. In order to make the most of this course we recommend that you study with us for a minimum of 8 weeks prior to sitting the exam except for the Initial exam, which requires a maximum of 4 weeks. The school will organise all the necessary papers for your inscription but the exam fees are not included in the price of this course. We will need a minimum of 8 weeks notice to organise your exam entrance papers.
  • Business Spanish (10 hours per week): Spanish is now the second language in international communications and our course has been developed with this in mind. It involves the learning of specific language relating to the world of commerce. Subjects covered include Business Organisations and Structures, Finance and Accounts, Marketing, Economy and Human Resources.
  • Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language: Designed for recently qualified and experienced teachers of Spanish in schools, colleges and universities. This course consists of either 20 or 25 hours and includes classes of both theory and practise. The content is orientated towards the needs of the pupil, and as interaction is fundamental there are opportunities to assist in real classes as both teacher and observer. The topics discussed in class are varied, including a critique of Teaching methods and theories, Classroom management, Language skills, Preparation of activities, lessons and courses, Elaboration of texts, Use of audiovisuals and Evaluation of classes.
  • Private Instruction: For those of you who want more personalized attention we offer individual classes where you can concentrate on your own specific requirements. Whatever your specialised field may be we can adapt and create a course to suit your personal needs. With this option you will need to contact our customer service team in advance to discuss your requirements.
  • Spanish and Latin American Literature (5 hours per week): This is a great way to fully understand the richness of literature within the Spanish-speaking world, which has a long and distinguished history. The study will not only focus on the works themselves but also on the historical context in which they were written. Additionally, we will be looking at traditional, modern and alternative writers to broaden your experience. The course is designed for both those who have only just been introduced to Spanish literature and also those who require a more in-depth understanding. Your contributions and participation within the class will be fundamental, and we will be asking you from the start what your interests are so that we can adapt our program to your preferences.