Learning Spanish at Yanapuma
At Yanapuma, we have developed a unique philosophy and practice of teaching Spanish and native languages. Our methodology was developed cooperatively by our teachers themselves—the people who are most knowledgeable in effective methods of language learning and teaching—and they work hard to continually improve the program based on student feedback. Our teachers are all degreed professionals with substantial teaching experience. They bring experience from their professional lives in other areas as well, including knowledge of the history, culture, traditions, politics and customs of Ecuador and Latin America. Through this experience, they have the talent and dedication for teaching Spanish in a manner that is both professional and engaging, sharing their experience and knowledge with the student.
We strive to provide an optimal learning environment for our students in a relaxed atmosphere to permit the student to learn Spanish at a comfortable pace. Teaching is balanced between the areas of grammar, writing, reading, audio comprehension with video, and most importantly, conversation skills. Our focus is not only on learning Spanish from a textbook, but on learning based on real world experiences and Ecuadorian life and culture.
- Grammar: Our Spanish teaching is based on grammatical rules recommended by the Real Academy of the Spanish Language. We present in a simple and easy to understand manner, with clear examples, and follow up with daily exercises and homework for practice.
- Writing: Spanish writing practice includes written in-class short exercises, take home practice exercises, compositions, and dictations, all according to the level of the student.
- Reading: Our library and on-line materials offer the student reading practice in Spanish magazines, local newspapers, and books by Ecuadorian and world authors. Reading is assisted by the teacher, and after reading, the student will be asked to explain his or her understanding and opinions of the material.
- Audio: We offer equipment including a television, DVD player, cassette recorder, and CD player for practice in comprehension of spoken Spanish. We have a selection of movies and other videos on DVD, and varieties of Latin music for practice.
- Conversation: In each class period, after working with the themes introduced that day, students will have the opportunity to put into practice what they have learned through Spanish conversation with their teacher. Themes of conversation can be chosen by the student; generally conversations are spontaneous, relating to cultural, political, and social themes in Ecuador. We encourage conversation based on the student’s own experiences during their stay in Ecuador.
In addition to time in class, students have many opportunities to explore Quito with their teacher. These in-class outings can include trips to Quito’s Old Town, walks through the New Town and the Northern sector, museums, zoo, universities, markets, and other places of interest. Weekly excursions to other nearby places of interest with a teacher are offered as well at minimal cost.
