Category Archives: spanish

Experienced Spanish teacher in London

Posted on by

teacher2

name: Ana Belén

 

With a diploma in Teaching training, a bachelor´s degree in Anthropology, a Master’s degree in Translation and interpreting and a Master´s degree in Applied Linguistic in Spanish as a foreign language, I would love to put my skills in your high school setting and I will try to describe you how below in this letter.
I have 8 years’ experience as a Spanish and French teacher and as a foreign language coordinator around France, Spain and the U.S.A. I have been teaching in a high school in Albuquerque, in the U.S.A. as well as at the Instituto Cervantes, which allow me to know and understand different systems and learning backgrounds. I am currently teaching as a Spanish assistant teacher in the University of Roehampton, London. This background has enabled me to develop a special rapport with different groups of population: among my students there are teenagers of different, nationalities, backgrounds and learning styles.

My philosophy of teaching foreign languages comes from my own personal experience as a student, a teacher and a traveler. I am the actual proof of how foreign languages increase your personal and professional chances of succeeding. My beliefs center around the following general ideas: (i) the target language should be used as much as possible in the classroom (ii) the teacher should make the importance and use of the target language clear to the students but without imposing it (iii) the teacher should make the class fun and enjoyable for the students (iv) the students should be as involved as possible. The use of technology, and the sports, hobbies and games I have been taking up during all my life (yoga, dance, and swimming, rock-climbing…) are an excellent way to ensure these goals and enhance the experience both for the teacher and the student in modern classrooms. I also believe that classroom instruction should focus on creating an environment as similar to immersion as possible. For example, teachers should make every effort to only use the target language and encourage students to realize that communication is the key, not perfect grammar. But the most important factor to consider is the beneficiaries targeted; help them to get confident about their language skills to reach their goals without forgetting their individual needs as students and people. That’s my objective and the reason why I want to be part of your community of learners.

My own personal experience as a student, tutor, and teacher. This has make me understand the way languages are learn, mixing personal feelings, motivation level and most important, understand the language as a tool to develop your professional carrier, your social network and to enjoy and life the Hispanic culture . This has guided me to actively consider the methods used by my own teachers and collages as well as to monitor the progress of students I helped or taught developing a one-to-one path of communication and a assertive personality.

Italian and Spanish Qualified Teacher in London

Posted on by

teacher2

Teacher name: Martina

I am an Italian fully qualified teacher. I graduated in Linguistic Science, Teaching Italian as a Foreign Language, and I obtained the Ditals II (Certification in Italian Language Teaching Competence). Over the past few years I have had the pleasure to work as a teacher both in Italy and abroad, it has helped me to develop an ability to teach and to communicate the Italian culture with passion. I have 6 years of teaching experience including private tutoring and teaching at school. I have been teaching Italian to English native speakers, going from A1 to C2 on the Common European Framework.

I am able to personalize classes according to the level, to personal skills and targets. My principal goals are to instil in you passion and enthusiasm in learning Italian language.

Learn Latin America Spanish In London

Posted on by

Latin America Spanish vs Spain Spanish

Although many people around the world assume that Spanish is the same everywhere, the fact is that it is different. The Spanish language of South America, for example, is different from that of Spain and even within the two regions. In fact, even within the regions, the dialects differ. So can Spanish people understand each other? The answer is yes, it it just like English where different groups speak differently but can understand each other perfectly clearly.

Uruguay, Argentina, Canada, USA

Travelling around South America by learning Spanish – Source

The Spanish language spread around the world when Spain was conquering nations. People in different parts of the world adopted the language but their are mild variations from region to region caused by the native languages they found in places they conquered and this is what has made the slight variations there are in the language today. The laguage itself continues to continue its evolution. There are some pronouns, for example, that were originally Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay that are today becoming more and more commonly used in the rest of South America.

Verb endings are also different in different regions where the Spanish language is spoken. Verb endings for some phrases in Latin America are different from those spoken inside Spain and they will also change when you go to the Canary Islands. Most of the variations are found in pronounciation. Just like in English, where Americans have different accents from the British and from Australians and so on, it doesn’t matter very much as they can understand each other.

So what does this mean for those who are learning Spanish; not very much. So long as you can speak it, it wont matter how verbs end or about pronouns becuase Spanish speakers understand each other all over the world. In fact, thinking of these distinctions isn’t advised as it can distract you. Focus instead on what your teacher tells you and learn whatever variation of the Spanish language that they offer.

Immersing Yourself In Everything Spanish

Posted on by

Spain has been high on the UK tourist list for many years. Sun, sea and Sangria have long been the theme. If you are thinking about making a life for yourself and your family in Spain there will be plenty of reminders of home.

Ryanair

With Ryanair getting to Spain is faster than ever (and cheap) – source

The tourist invasion

When we ‘invaded’ Spain as tourists in the 1960s and 70s we took many of our familiar favourites with us. This is why you can find fish and chip shops, Chinese and Indian restaurants and English pubs over there. Typically then although we loved the sun, the temperatures and the cheap vino, we craved our ‘British’ food.

Ex-pat communities

Next it became a favourite retirement place. Consequently many communities of ex-pats grew up in popular resorts who got by with only a smattering of Spanish. The Brits who settled opened the English pubs and fish and chip shops so that others like them could enjoy the comforts of home … in the sun.

Making a life in Spain

For those wishing to work in Spain and make a life there now, immersion in the lifestyle and culture is recommended. Learning the language so that you aren’t restricted in either the jobs you can do or the company you keep is a great starting point.

Get a taste of Spain

Trying the Spanish cuisine is next in line so that you get a real ‘taste’ for the Spanish lifestyle. Some of the favourites which are good to start with include Tapas which is a selection of small dishes such as olives, cheese, shrimps, squid and chorizo. Others include Paella: most commonly a rice dish with chicken and seafood; Spanish omelette, Patatas Bravos – yes potatoes – or Gazpacho a chilled tomato soup.

Now that Spanish food is more readily available in restaurants and supermarkets over here this shouldn’t be difficult to accept.

Moving to Spain

As both the UK and Spain are part of the EU you are free to travel and work in Spain without requiring a work permit as long as you are a British citizen or a citizen of another EU country. You can stay for up to three months as a tourist. If you stay longer you must register and you will be given a certificate of residence. You must also show evidence that you can support yourself and evidence of healthcare insurance.

Keeping in touch with family and friends in the UK is easy. There are plenty of mobile networks that allow instant access but a cheaper and easy option is Skype where you can not only speak but see one another on your laptop or iPad screen.

There are many online sites that help you understand all the things you need to do or need to know to set up home in Spain. Check one of these out before you go to see what you need to do.

But at least there are now online sites to help your search for jobs in Spain and many which allow you to upload your CV so that it is available for prospective employers to read. The Internet has certainly helped to make it easier for people to be mobile.

By Harry Price

Harry Price  is a free-lance writer who enjoys hiking, camping and playing poker with his mates. He has 3 wonderful dogs who run his life.

What To Expect On Your Camino De Santiago Walking Tour

Posted on by

You have made the decision to embark on one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world, you’ve booked your Camino de Santiago walking tour, you’ve read up on all the advice past pilgrims have to give about packing, and you’ve started training so your feet won’t be unpleasantly surprised when they’re suddenly walking miles and miles for days on end. However, do you actually know what to expect from the journey once you begin? Even the most seasoned of hikers have found that setting out on an expedition like this is nearly incomparable to anything else they’ve ever experienced, so having a little extra insight may be helpful as you get ready to start your travels.

Walking the Trail

Though there are many routes that lead to Santiago de Compostela, the one you will walk will already be designated by whichever Camino de Santiago walking tour you have chosen to be a part of. The hike is recommended for all ages, but pilgrims should be aware that there is some varying terrain as you walk through farmland, mountains, forests and coastal regions (all depending which path you’re on). Some travelers worry about the chance of getting lost along the way, but the Camino is clearly marked throughout the entire 500 miles with yellow arrows, scallop shell tiles and signs. Pilgrims also need not be concerned about staying with their tour group at all times or keeping the same pace. Guides are well aware that many use the Camino as a destination for self-reflection, meditation and peace and quiet and won’t pressure anyone to hurry up, slow down or participate in conversation.

Camino de Santiago route marker on the Cantabrian coast

Accommodations

Since it is such a well-traveled trail, accommodations are plenty along Camino de Santiago. There’s a good chance that your walking tour will have all of your lodging set up for you already, usually making arrangements in bed and breakfasts or some of the more luxurious hotels that dot the path. If you were to make the pilgrimage on your own and decide to select more economical boarding, albergues are the most popular and cheapest alternative, where you will be placed in a dorm like setting with shared rooms and bathrooms. Hostels and posadas are also an option.

Food

Bars, restaurants and grocery stores are not hard to find, and your Camino de Santiago tour guide will have plenty of suggestions on local cuisines. Each region will have its own specialties and are more than ready to share that with pilgrims as they pass through town. If staying at an albergue, you will also have the opportunity to cook your own meals if you wish.

Tapas!

Fellow Pilgrims

One of the most exciting expectations you should have is about all the different people you’ll meet during your journey. As you progress down the trail, you may just find that you’re really getting the most from your excursion from simply taking some time to open up to your fellow pilgrims and learn about other cultures, history and walks of life.

Challenges

While there are several challenges pilgrims can face on their trek, preparing for them in advance gives you a good chance of avoiding many of them. Blisters, tendonitis, dehydration, sunburn and heatstroke are the most common ailments that people have to deal with. Make sure to break in new hiking boots before you go, stretch, strengthen and condition your muscles every morning and night, don’t forgo the sunscreen and pace yourself as needed.

Each pilgrimage and experience will be different, so you can’t always be prepared for every little thing, however, this information should provide you with a good idea of what to expect as you begin your Camino de Santiago walking tour so that you may enjoy it to the fullest.

Featured images:

By Tiffany Olson

Tiffany Olson absolutely loves all things travel related. She worked at a hostel for many years in San Diego and it was there that she found her passion for traveling. Walking the Camino de Santiago is next on her list of adventures to try. When she’s not writing you’ll usually find her in the company of friends, reading, or cooking.

Five Tips For A Successful Corporate Relocation To Spain

Posted on by

So, your employer is planning a corporate relocation to Spain, and you have decided to take a new position overseas. This decision may bring about any number of emotions – excitement, anticipation, stress, happiness and sadness. But just as importantly, this decision will require a lot of work on your end. Even if your company is handling the international moving and helping with arrangements for employees such as accommodations, transportation, work visas and other paperwork, you will still have quite a few tasks to handle on your own. Here are five of the most important things to consider when relocating to Spain or any other European country:

1. Soak in the Spanish Culture

Even if your employer is paying for Spanish language classes, there is much more to learn. Relocating to Spain will be easier if you take extra classes, read books about the local culture, subscribe to magazines and even visit before you move, if possible. Once you’re there, consider joining local clubs and engaging in activities where you might meet people who live in the area. This will help to lessen the emotional burden that often comes with relocating.

2. Examine Your Health Coverage Options

If your employer is providing health insurance and they have only given you one or two options, then this aspect of your move will be simple. If you are left to procure your own medical coverage, you will need to study up on all the options. Either way, it’s a good idea to learn more about their typical healthcare processes so you know what to do and where to go if you need medical assistance.

3. Open a Spanish Bank Account

As soon as you have proof of address and a visa, you can open a bank account, which will more than likely be required to arrange for new services in Spain, such as a mobile phone (if your employer isn’t providing one). Try to find the bank with the best currency exchange; a little research here will go a long way.

3. Research the Roads and Requirements for Drivers

If you plan on driving in Spain, you will need to learn more about the requirements and regulations to ensure compliance. You may have to go to a driving school and get a new license on your own, or your employer may be assisting with this as part of the international office moving. Either way, the laws are different and you need to know what you’re facing as a new driver in this country.

5. Get to Know the Trains, Trams and Buses

Chances are you will end up using public transportation after moving to Spain. Most European countries are set up with excellent public transportation systems, and in many cases it is simply more convenient to take a metro train, tram or bus in the city you’ll soon call home. You may even decide to sell your car. If you’re skeptical because public transportation isn’t popular where you live, just give it a try. Your life may be a whole lot easier as a result.

Alba, a native of Spain who now lives and works in the U.S., is an expert on international office moving. She loves her home nation and is happy to share tips on how to acclimate to the culture, as well as how to successfully undertake an office-wide relocation overseas.

The Birth Of Flamenco

Posted on by

Flamenco is so inextricably linked with the culture of Spain, it’s almost impossible for most people who live outside of the country to not link it instantly. As a fusion of dance and music, Flamenco captures the passion and energy that’s synonymous with Spanish life.

As with many traditions, the history of Flamenco is something of a mystery, with many scholars researching its origins. One thing that is clear is the derivation of the name, as ‘Flamenco’ translates as ‘flame-like’. This is incredibly apt, as the dance movements are exaggerated yet graceful and the music bursts with energy. A Flamenco performance can make the atmosphere crackle as the shadows of the performers grace the walls, like a sensual tapestry.

The Origins Of Flamenco

To find out more about this incredible artform, let’s travel back in time some to the 18th century. The preferred music of the upper classes was highbrow, intricate concert pieces, or finely arranged chamber music. There was a delicacy and thoughtfulness, which spanned the bombastic to the intimate, and was seen by many influential people as the music humans should aspire to.

But underneath all of this, among the masses, was a wide and varied movement of folk music. With different styles that varied from country to country, region to region, creed and ethnicity, these performances acted like stamps on the world. Folk music and dances were a signature to other places and peoples.

It is this culmination of dance and music styles that is thought to have given birth to Falmenco, particularly dancing competitions held between regions. These competitions would be held between Romany Gypsies and non-gypsies alike, each pushing and influencing each other’s styles. This fusion is thought to have sown the seeds of Flamenco, particularly merging the dances and music of Romany styles and Andalusia in Southern Spain.

Flamenco At The Royal Court

However, it is believed that Charles I of Spain, and other Spanish nobles, often invited folk musicians to perform at court. However, these were musicians and dancers that had trained to become the best in their field, offering perhaps a more formal, sanitised version of the traditional folk dance.

Initially, Flamenco was performed with only vocal accompaniment, with the dancers themselves providing percussion with maracas or castanets. As Flamenco developed into the latter part of the 18th century and early 19th century, the Flamenco guitar became an essential element to these performances.

Today, Flamenco is seen as one of the most vibrant and richest dances in the world, taught and performed all over the world. In fact, Japan has more Flamenco academies than Spain!

There’s no denying that Flamenco has developed and grown to be even more popular than ever, continuing a noble tradition of dance and music.

Flamenco dance

License: Creative Commons image source
Citations:

 

Italian and Spanish lessons in West London – Hammersmith and Fulham

Posted on by

If you are looking to start learning Spanish or Italian and live or work in West London, The Language Class might be able to help you.

Private language lessons at your office or at your home in  Hammersmith and Fulham.

The Language Class has been in the language teaching business for over 10 years and we know what it takes to be a language tutor. We screen potential qualified teachers according to our strict selective method in order to ensure the highest teaching standards. Our teachers are CRB screened for your peace of mind, especially if you are going to have lessons at your home or at your office. Furthermore all teachers are briefed regarding the place of where the lessons will be taking place. This is to ensure that they wearing a suitable outfit should they be visiting your place of work.

Why start learning Italian in West London.

Italian is a popular language to learn due to the possibility to travel easily to Italy for holidays from the UK. You can enjoy the sun, food, architecture or the culture in a even better way if you can master the basics of the Italian language. Many of our students have an Italian partner and want to communicate with their family. Others own properties there and want to be able to communicate with the neighbours, whatever the reason learning Italian will enable you to communicate with confidence and embrace the new culture.

Start Spanish language lessons with a tutor in London.

Spanish in great language that will open the doors to travel in many part of the world. Of course Spain is an evergreen destination for British travellers and you can reach it easily from London or other part of the UK. However South America is the trend now. These days more and more students are coming to us to learn Spanish to be able to communicate in Peru’, Mexico and Argentina. Remember that it is a misconception to believe that South American Spanish is a different language from Spain Spanish. In fact they are totally intelligible. So if your teacher is from Madrid you will be fine learning from him or her even if you are going to Lima.

Start learning Spanish or Italian with the Language class, we will be happy to send one of our qualified teachers to your home of office in West London in the Hammersmith and Fulham area.

London language courses starting in September 2012

Posted on by

The language class opens the enrolments for the new September 2012 classes for those interested in learning a new language.

After the hype of the Olympic games The Language class publish the new dates for the next round of courses commencing in September 2012 and also in October 2012. The have the usual evening French, Spanish, German and Italian courses for 10 weeks from 7 pm till 9 pm. Of course we have the beginner courses in those language for those who want to start learning a language from scratch. In fact no previous knowledge is required when enrolling on a Beginner course. We call this level A1 according to the European Framework for language it will cover the most basic elements of a language such as greetings, the alphabet and numbers, along with some basic verbs and the present tense.

Weekend language courses starting in September 2012

For those interested in a new language we have beginner course during the weekend, the semi intensive course on Saturday is particularly suitable for those who do not have time during the evening the attend the classes in Liverpool street. The weekend course lasts 6 weeks and each meeting it is set at 10.30 am and lasts until 1.30 pm.

Lunch time language courses in the City of London from Septmber and October 2012

If you would like to learn Spanish or German and you have no time, you can take advantage of our lunch time classes that start at 12.00 noon and last for one hour. These are ideal if you want to  escape your office during lunch break and do something with your time.

Why learning a language from September 2012 is a good idea.

Some people just had their holidays and have been to Spain or for those really lucky in South America. So why not continuing practising Spanish while you are back in London. This is the right time to learn while motivation is high. September, October and November are great months away from other commitments such as Christmas and other holidays. So this time frame will ensure continuity in your learning.

What are the most popular languages to learn.

In the UK Spanish is always the most popular language to learn due to the fact that many young people have interest in travelling to South America. However due to the vicinity to France, Italy and German the countries respective languages are also popular.

[wpsc_products product_id=’446′]

Learning a language with self study materials VS learning with a native tutor

Posted on by

The advantages of learning a language with a real native tutor

Each of us has a different learning style. Some learn better with visual aids while others like listening to lectures and hearing what is being taught. There are those who like to read and analyze before they figure something out while there are those who prefer to apply concepts taught in order to remember them. No matter what the learning style and the topic of the discussion, a real teacher is definitely an advantage to any type of learner.
Real teachers make learning for a student more interesting by the utilization of facilitation skills instead of spoon-feeding information that can be readily learned in online courses or modules. They can make the lessons more personalized depending on the type of learner and inject activities that allow application of the lesson learned. They can also adjust the pace of the lessons and just cover the ‘need-to-know’ topics if required. Also, if your teacher happens to be a native speaker, he or she can show you how to speak the language the native way. This way, the learner is able to appreciate the language even more and is able to understand why speaking another language is not just combining words and phrases.
The downside of audio CDs and language learning programs such as those offered in www.pimsleur.com and www.rosettastone.com is the fact that they only target specific types of learners, specifically the auditory or visual learners. Even if these software have speech recognition and provide feedback on pronunciation or intonation, nothing can compare to the comments of a real teacher. You are also able to immediately correct your mistakes and get more ideas on how to grasp and remember the topic better based on feedback from your teacher.
When you feel that you have acquired everything that you can from your self-paced lessons, the final test is for you to apply what you’ve learned by striking an actual conversation with someone who speaks your newly learned language. Most language learning software is not built for this purpose. Practicing what you’ve learned through interaction with your teacher is something that technology cannot replace, without a doubt.
Cost may also be a factor when choosing between self-directed learning and instructor-led learning. One good suggestion would be for you to invest in a school that offers lessons conducted by a real teacher and supplemented with online courses or self-paced topics. In this way you get to address all your learning needs.
In conclusion, learning a new language on your own using available resources can be beneficial, but when combined with interaction provided by a live teacher, you can definitely have the best possible learning experience.