Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.
- How often does my child get Spanish?
- Does my child receive a grade?
- Why learn a second language now?
- How is this program funded?
- How long has the program been in place?
- What can I do at home to support my child's learning and achievement?
- Is 60 minutes a week enough time to learn anything?
How often does my child get Spanish?
Currently Spanish is being offered twice a week for 30 minutes
per day.
A total of 60 minutes per week with homework assignments
periodically. The Spanish teacher travels between Soda Creek and
Strawberry Park to teach the 3rd, 4th and 5th graders.
Does my child receive a grade?
At this time No. However a committee has recently been put in
place to
evaluate the current foreigh language program and its
effectiveness.
Assessments will be a part of the curriculum, but will not appear
on a
progress report or grade card.
Why learn a second language now?
Research shows that the optimum age to acquire a second or even
third language is between the ages of 2 - 10, not in middle or
high
school. The benefits are many and varied, including an increase
in
cognitive development and brain growth.
How is this program funded?
Through our 1/2 sales tax dollars.
How long has the program been in place?
The Elementary Spanish program began in February 2003. We
initially combined classes for 2 20 minute class periods per
week. We now meet for 2 thirty minute class periods and we no
longer combine classes.
What can I do at home to support my child's learning and achievement?
Lots! You can be an important part of your child's achievement
and growth by working with them on homework and monthly
calendars.
Learn along with them and practice new phrases and words with
them at home. Encourage and support them, and introduce them to
more
Spanish through music, computers web sites, games, and through
our local community - a community rich in hispanic culture and
language!
Is 60 minutes a week enough time to learn anything?
Yes - you would be amazed at how quickly and easily the young
mind learns and retains new information. This is the best time to
introduce a second language. However, research indicates that the
level of proficiency in learning a second language is directly
related to when we start teaching them the language and the
length of time they have to learn. Clearly this amount of time
will not make any student fluent in the
language, which is not the intent of this program. It will
provide them
with a solid foundation from which to grow and continue learning.