Language Learning on the Job – Language Educator August 2009

Because of the services that Habla Language Services offer, the Language Educator was interested in hearing more about how Habla LS reaches corporate America in their quest to learn Spanish. Click here  for the August 2009 edition featuring “Language Learning on the Job.”

Habla Language Services also offers ESL (English as a Second Language) for businesses and individuals.

Habla Language Services Featured in the Language Educator Magazine

My goal is to post weekly on Wednesdays. Sorry it’s been a while since my last posting. Sometimes life just happens. I will have a stock pile of postings to take us through to the end of the year. Make sure to share this blog with others interested in best practices for language learning and reaching the Hispanic market.

Click here for the April 2009 edition of Language Educator Magazine featuring “Using Languages in Health Care” and how Habla Languages Services helps chiropractors and others do that.

From Ridge to Reef

Check out this video directed by my Costa Rican partner Roy Prendas for WWF! When you participate in Habla Language Service’s Spanish immersion program in Costa Rica next summer, you’ll get the best of language, nature and culture! Save the dates:
Session 1: August 9-13, 2010
Session 2: August 16-20, 2010

http://hablals.com/learn-spanish/personal/costa-rica-immersion-program/

Somos americanos

Did you know that America is all one continent? Most cultures teach that there are 5 continents and America is all one. That is: North America, Central America and South America are one. Yes, we are all Americans. This video shows how the continent is divided into different cultural zones. California has its own culture! Hey! (Oh yeah, I should mention it’s in Spanish (from Spain – lisp and all!) Click here for video:

Learn a New Language – Why Not Spanish!

This article by Meina Kaleyah of Drexel University really caught my attention:

“I would like to blame geographic isolation for the fact that most U.S. citizens that are not of immigrant households do not speak any languages other than English. Fine, you can’t hone your German or your French, we get it – it’s all an ocean away. Regardless, just to the south of us Spanish, and not English is what is spoken. According to a report conducted by the Center for Applied Linguistics, Foreign Language Teaching: “What the United States Can Learn from Other Countries,” the U.S. lags in foreign language proficiency because linguistic education is introduced too late, and our teaching force is not properly equipped. These conclusions should not come as a surprise. We can all recollect the nightmare and confusion of foreign language classes, so it’s no wonder why few bother to pursue the languages in which they once held interest. So, what do we lose from avoiding learning a foreign language?

In most careers, fluency in another language is highly valued, not only for what such knowledge indicates about the employee but also for business ventures, creating a scenario where expanding into a global market becomes viable. A study published April 2006 in the “Journal of International Business Studies” concludes that introducing employees that speak another language into the workplace actually cuts transaction costs that involve international clients. Previously, if an employee was multilingual, they were utilized merely for the translation of bureaucratic documents (e.g. questionnaires). Language and the associated ethnic conventions were segregated from the skill itself. Language is now an integrated strategy within corporations. Commercial culture has shifted in its perception of multilingual people. Possessing knowledge of multiple languages is associated with many valued qualities, such as versatility, perceptivity and cooperation. In the pre-twenty-first century corporate milieu, multilingualism would brand an individual as an expatriate of another country, the child of an immigrant, or European – no outstanding traits would be attached.

Employment aside, knowing another tongue brings introspective and social context to the individual. Anyone who is a first or second generation immigrant in this country can attest to this fact: speaking and speaking well is tied to enculturation. A common phenomenon in bilingual households is a dual persona, one for each language and culture. There is no wrong in it; simply, characteristics within our own personalities are punctuated in different ways in different cultures via the style we communicate.

A study published in the “Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching” illustrates the integral nature of culture within foreign language education. Miwako Yanagisawa followed students learning Japanese as a second language at the Tokyo Christian University in Japan. The study focused on the socialization of Japanese culture that was imparted along with the language. Students in the class who communicated effectively in Japanese shared a couple of common attributes. First, they understood their social context as non-Japanese, using it to their advantage. They also incorporated values and norms of the Japanese within their exchanges.

Two fundamental processes of language socialization were revealed: “socialization through the use of language and socialization to use language.” Proper knowledge of a language carries more weight than the ability to string a sentence together. We are assimilated into the culture, we assume different identities – we learn how to connect with people that may have been socialized in a fundamentally different manner. Learning a foreign language makes us global citizens.

My parents firmly believe in this notion of “global citizen.” Although I grew up in an Iranian household where Farsi was spoken, my parents wasted no time plopping me in yet another foreign-language environment at the tender age of four. For two years, I attended L’École Internationale Française de Philadelphie in Bala Cynwyd. To this day I am not sure what fueled this decision (why didn’t they get me a Spanish-speaking nanny?), but it certainly changed the course of my life intellectually. Though my French lay dormant for many years after I stopped attending L’EIFP, my high school French literature class reawakened my inner-Francophile. Labé, Baudelaire, Appollinaire – all their words moved me to tears.

I find that American literature often leaves something to be desired when it comes to poetry. As a Francophile, French movies and literature are my bread and butter. “Au Revoir Les Enfants” and “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” are two choice films that should not be overlooked. Frankly, even if you cannot speak another language, cinema is a great medium to introduce yourself to any culture. Do not be embarrassed that you cannot watch a movie en V.O. (in its original form); a great movie translates in all languages. Even if you do not have the time to sit down and get through that pricey Rosetta Stone program collecting dust in your desk, the arts are a great medium to take in another culture.

A refuge for the tired and poor is not just some archaic inscription on a plaque within the walls of the Statue of Liberty. As a country of immigrants, we frequently encounter those from other countries, daily. At the very least, we should watch some foreign films. However, there is no substitute for fluency in another language from your own. It aids in our world perspective and our ability to communicate with a variety of people, a well as adding a little kick to our résumé. Simply, a foreign language facilitates growth; when you stop growing and changing, you’re dead.”

Typing español on the keyboard

If you are wrting Spanish papers or reports for school, it is essential that you know how to type in the accent marks. Going back and trying to write them in is not only inefficient, but can cause errors. First, if you are working in Word, select the language to Spanish. I usually choose Mexican Spanish, but you can choose whichever regional Spanish you think is the most accurate. Then, make sure you do a spell check. Word will catch many of your errors, but remember, it is not 100% correct and you also need to use your own brain and training to make decisions.

So here are the codes for typing chracters in Spanish. First turn your number lock key on, then, while holding down the ALT key, enter the 3-digit decimal code for the extended ASCII character you want to generate. For example, if you want to write an ñ, first you have to know the ASCII code which is alt 164.To write an ñ, press and hold the ALT key. (in this case 164) then release the ALT key. You should be able to do this in almost any program.  

If it worked then you will be able to use all the Spanish characters. The only problem is knowing which numbers to use: Here is a list of Spanish characters with their ALT numbers.

Note: According to the powers that be at the RAE (Real Academia Española), it is still obligatory to use accents with capital letters. However, it is very common to see unaccentuated capital letters such as Á Ú Í Ó (Ñ) and in certain places, it is difficult to actually do.

By the way: Here are a few more useful “alt” numbers: @ 64 (called the arroba in Spanish) ~ 126, ÷ 246, ½ 171, ¼ 172, £ 156.

–Bendiciones

 

Summer Spanish Classes for High School and Adults

High School: Habla Language Services hits the grammar books! Yes, we like to emphasize communication and manipulating the Spanish language without speaking it perfectly, but because it is summer and some kids want to get a head-start on high school, we are offering a special series this summer. We are going to do an introduction to Spanish 2. So if you have a teen who went through Spanish 1 and didn’t do so well. Or, who is entering Spanish 2 and knows s/he may not have much time to study, this is the class for your high schooler! We will cover what will mainly be covered in high school Spanish 2: preterite, imperfect, commands. Plan on meeting twice a week for 1.5 hours with homework. We will form a schedule that works for you. We are offering this class at a special rate for youth: $250 for 8 sessions that are 90 minutes. All materials are always included, but it helps if your teen has a bilingual pocket dictionary, electronic translator, or phone app for translating. Contact me now so we can get started within the next couple of weeks. (Classes are offered at my home in the Campbell area.)

Elementary: If there is enough interest, I will do a fun session for younger kids like learning through games and music! Let me know what you’d like to do!

Adults: The Spanish conversational series will be starting up again in the fall. Make sure you are ready with the basics. In order to participate in the conversational series, you need to know the following 7 competencies:

1. Numbers
2. Days of the Week
3. Months of the Year
4. Colors
5. Greetings and Niceties
6. Pronouns
7. Question words

Gear up now so you are ready to go in the fall!  I cover the 7 competencies in my basic 3-hour workshop. The first 2 people to indicate interest will get to select the date. I recommend a Saturday or Sunday because if you work a traditional work schedule, you will not want to attempt this class after a full day of work. Even though it is fun and dynamic, there is a great deal of information to learn and retain. I typically offer this workshop in my home in the Campbell area, but if there is a small group of people interested in another part of the Bay Area, we can arrange an alternate location.

You will be amazed at the innovative tools I have developed to tap into every learning modality: oral, visual, kinesthetic. My fifteen years of language teaching experience has enabled me to integrate theory into every practical application. I won’t bore you with the theory, but you will find yourself learning, speaking and understanding in a full-immersion 3-hour Spanish workshop.

Cost for the workshop is $95 and includes all materials and refreshments. You will go home with the tools needed to continue practicing at home and a full-color Spanish calendar!

Study Spanish in Costa Rica This Summer!

Come join us to study Spanish in Costa Rica this summer. Get all the benefits of Gina Covello’s expert Spanish instruction skills while at the same time, living and experiencing the language. Live with a host family and enjoy day trips in the afternoon. How can we afford to offer so much at such a great price?

1. I have friends and “family” in Tilarán, so have personal reasons for wanting to be in Costa Rica. Therefore, I am charging a greatly reduced rate for the actual classroom instruction.
2. I really want you to experience Spanish immersion and Costa Rican culture, and I want to have an affordable immersion program to offer and recommend.  
3. I have done all the planning together with my Costa Rican counterpart; we have searched for the best rates and did not have to pay a 3^rd party. We are also proud to say that we are supporting the local economy. All trips and services have been arranged by locals whenever possible.
4. Lastly, keep in mind that you will not be staying in luxury accommodations. You will be living with host families and living how small-town Costa Ricans live. That means there will not be air conditioning.  It will be hot, but there will be fans.

Regarding accommodations: The beds and pillows are not what we are used to. The beds are comfortable, but not mattress and box springs. They will most likely be a mattress over a wooden bed. Pillows are not big and fluffy. If you are particular about your pillow and/or, it will affect your sleep, you may want to bring your own – or even a travel pillow. Showers may be cold water or heated with a small stream of hot water. Toilet paper goes in the waste basket not down the toilet. This life style may take some adjusting, but at the same time, you will have an unforgettable experience living with a family and communicating in Spanish. Costa Ricans are wonderful people and very hospitable. We have chosen families that particularly hope to develop friendships with you and help you in your Spanish-learning experience. Come break out of your American mindset and experience a brand new culture, living in a Latin American country.

Regarding meals: Costa Ricans eat rice and beans for all three meals of the day. They usually add some sort of meat or eggs for almuerzo the main meal at noontime. You will definitely indulge in tropical fruits and vegetables: papayas, mangos, plantains, etc. are not a luxury here; they are plentiful as are waters made with these fruits. If you have any special dietary needs, let us know and we will do our best to accommodate.

Climate:  We will be staying in Tilarán which is at 1,640 ft (500 m) above sea level. It can get cool and very windy. It can also get very hot. It is a good idea to wear lightweight clothing and a jacket or sweater so these can be removed when the temperature rises. A poncho may also come in handy. If we find that we are getting rained on during our afternoon trips, we may choose to switch the trips to the morning hours and the studying to the afternoon. Or, we may just get rained on; after all, this is the tropics, and we will be visiting RAIN forests. J

What to bring: In addition to the packing sheet you will receive upon requesting additional information, please keep in mind the following:

MUST HAVE PASSPORT!

Electricity: 110 volts. Same as in U.S.

There are several drug stores and grocery stores in Tilarán where you can get all your essentials, but it won’t be American brands. If you have your favorites, bring those.

Gift for host family is not necessary but is a nice token. American chocolate goes a long way. Even Hershey’s is well appreciated, as their chocolate is not of the same quality. If you are a chocoholic make sure you bring enough for your stay. The same can be said about wines. We have such wonderful wines here in California; you just cannot get them in Costa Rica. You might also consider bringing something that represents your hometown or city like a souvenir or specialty food item. I often bring a large selection of Avon products to give out.

Finances: The Costa Rican monetary unit is the Colón which is currently 580 to $1 USD. It is best to bring money in the form of travelers’ checks (U.S. dollars). It is always a good idea to bring some dollars to tide you over until you can go to the bank. Do not expect to be able to cash a personal check. Major credit cards are accepted in most large stores in the main cities. ATM’s are available. There are a couple banks in Tilarán.

There is an exit tax of US$26 payable at the airport either in dollars or Colones. Make sure you have this money for your departure!

Directions: Costa Ricans don’t use street numbers when giving directions. Familiar reference points are used instead. Usually an address is given by indicating the distance in meters to the north, south, east or west from a more or less well known reference point. 100 meters = 1 block.

Tipping: At restaurants, a 10% service charge is included in the bill, and a 12% sales tax, so no extra tipping is necessary. Taxi drivers are usually not tipped.

Crime: Costa Rica, in general, is a safe place. Women need to be careful with purses, as most crime is of the petty type…pickpockets and purse-snatching. Be careful on buses and in crowded areas. Do not leave valuables or personal documents in a parked car. Tilarán, however, is very safe and easy going.

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Spanish available this summer for children!

Many of you have asked if I offer classes for children. Well, this summer, I have partnered with Silver Creek Academic Academy and will be offering two classes on Thursday mornings!

The 1st class will be for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders at 10:30 a.m. The second class will be for 6th grade and above at 11:30 a.m. Session will be: June 18-July 16.  We will be covering the basics: numbers, colors, days of the week, and months. You’ll go home with your own Spanish calendar to continue practicing what you have learned.

Go to Silver Creek Academic Academy’s website for more information: http://web.mac.com/funlearning/iWeb/Site/2009%20Summer%20Schedule.html

Why your child should learn Spanish: Studies show that students learn better when they know a second language. Furthermore, students who know a second language have access to a greater number of career possibilities and develop a deeper understanding of their own and other cultures. Because the earlier a child is introduced to a second language, the greater the chances are that the child will become truly proficient in the language.

Sign up with Silver Creek Academic Academy today and help your child to succeed in school.

Mexican Names and Nicknames

When you are working with the Hispanic market, in California, it is important to understand the Mexican culture. Understanding Mexican names and nicknames is a big part of what makes up Mexican culture. I’ll never forget the time I took a test in my Spanish class for native-speakers. We were suppossed to read a book and the quiz was on the characters in the book. Well, nobody had read the book, but all the Mexicans knew the nicknames associated with each name. It was the 1st time I ever experienced what it was like to take a culturally-biased test. If I had had this list or something similiar, I would have been able to pass the quiz!

Now, I’m passing on the info to you. You may not be taking a quiz in español para hispanohablantes, but if you are dealing with Eduardo and everybody is calling him Lalo, now you’ll know why. nombres-mexicanos

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