Learning Spanish at Tenacre

Rooted in the best practices of language instruction and guided by an emphasis on communication, Tenacre’s Spanish Department uses the Qtalk method to mimic first-language acquisition to second-language learning. Our lessons are richly visual, enabling students to speak in sentences at an early age, and scaffold high levels of written and spoken production in the upper grades.
QTalk is a method based on a series of intuitive images representing subjects, verbs, objects, places, conjugations, and much more. Children interpret these images, as they are placed side by side, in the form of sentences. From the very first lesson, students interpret and construct sentences, allowing them to learn grammar by using it. Gradually, students learn to interpret scenes and stories.
 
Tenacre’s Spanish department designs units of instruction taking into account the different ways students learn. Every unit will cover material from different approaches, through visuals, writing, music, art, hands-on activities, mnemonic devices, and dance, to name a few examples. Technology is an important aid to facilitate curriculum and as a powerful tool for differentiation. With the use of technology, curricula are designed with flexible options that can differentiate instruction based on individual student's needs.

Diversity and culture are integral parts of the Tenacre Spanish curriculum, teaching students to appreciate different perspectives and draw stronger conclusions. Challenging students to consider different perspectives can also teach them how to interact with their peers on a social level and equip them with skills they’ll use for the rest of their life.