1. ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORE
Spanish Immersion Program
Our programs offer students the opportunity to learn Spanish and to discover our culture
first-hand.
SPANISH PROGRAM INCLUDES:
Intensive Spanish classes, homestay with carefully selected Quepos osta Rican families,
Quepos-Costa
afternoon Latin dance, Costa Rican cooking and conversation classes, excursions and
conversation
cultural activities. Class schedules are given by the school, depends on your Span
Spanish
level, we place you in class morning or afternoon time.
OPEN ENROLLMENT: Spanish courses are offered year round. New classes start on
ENROLLMENT:
Mondays every week of the year.
SHORT & LONG TERM COURSES You may choose the length of the program (from
COURSES:
one week up to six months).
p
HOURS OF INSTRUCTION: Four hours a day, plus one free conversation hour
INSTRUCTION:
everyday.
SMALL GROUPS: Spanish classes are offered in small groups with an average of 4
: 4-5
students (max. 5). Individual classes and special packages for groups are a also
available.
OUR METHODOLOGY
At ACADEMIA DE ESPAÑOL D’AMORE we believe that only when Spanish lessons are
interesting, functional, and fun to do is it possible to learn quickly and easily.
Consequently, the essence of our courses is a
varied and dynamic teaching approach. Our aim is
to teach classes that are intensive, yet challenging
o
and enjoyable.
Academia de Español D’Amore, in
existence for seventeen years, is a high quality
educational institution created to facilitate the
learning of Spanish it offers six specific levels of
Spanish proficiency to guarantee the students an
anish
appropriate placement.
Our methodology is based on the whole
language immersion method of learning; therefore
the professors conduct the lessons completely in Spanish. It calls for active participation
from our students.
m Our practical courses enable the students to communicate,
comprehend and use accurate pronunciation in Spanish as quickly as possible.
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598
367

2. The intimate classroom setting and particular training methodology provide the
flexibility to adapt our teaching style and approach to meet your individual needs.
r
All our classes emphasize speaking abilities, but we consider the Spanish
language as a whole; therefore, our methodology takes into account its different
components: grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, cultural understanding and pragmatic
pronunciation,
use.
SPANISH CLASSES
Our Spanish classes usually consist of 4 to 5 students never more than six. This intimate
students-never
class size helps us tailor our programs to
specific needs of the student and to adapt
our teaching methodology to each learning
style. Student will be placed in classes
according to the Spanish proficiency level,
which is determined by a written test sent by
email and an oral evaluation exam first day of
classes. The Spanish level will be confirmed
vel
by the instructor of the class based on the
performance during the class.
Throughout the course the progress
will be assessed daily by the teacher and our
Academic Director. Every day instructors
hand in a progress report for each student in
the class. This information helps our Academic Director determine and decide, along with
the student, the steps for reaching his/her language goals.
We provide four levels of Spanish instruction:
Beginners I, II
Intermediate I, II
Advanced I, II
Specialized courses
Beginner Level
Beginner's course I, II has been designed to provide an introduction to elementary
Spanish. The primary objective of this course is to offer students the opportunity to
acquire communication skills in what we call "Survival Spanish". Functions include:
asking/giving directions, using appropriate greetings, introductions and courtesy
expressions as well as being able to communicate in different situations such as
communicate
visiting a bank, restaurant, or other public places. Furthermore students should be
able to give their personal information, and talk about personal preferences and
activities in growing details.
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598
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3. As a Beginning student, you will study basic sentence structures, learn everyday
vocabulary and develop the ability to clearly communicate basic ideas in Spanish.
Intermediate Level
The intermediate course is divided into Intermediate I, II and covers most grammatical
structures, which will give students the tools needed to achieve more confidence and
fluency when using the language. Students will learn these grammatical structures,
while improving vocabulary, pronunciation, comprehension, as well as written and oral
skills. At this level the students learn to use different compensation strategies to
communicate their ideas when they do not know the exact structure or word that
should be used. Students will also be able to hold conversations on various topics with
native Spanish speakers, using the appropriate forms for each situation. This course
emphasizes on Cultural aspects of the
language and its real usage. Course
emphasis is on culturally authentic reading
and writing, along with continued
development of listening/speaking
competencies.
Advanced Level
This course includes the study of advanced
Spanish grammar. The student should
begin to master complex syntactical and
morphological structures and special
differences used in the language. In
addition, the students will face current
topics and conversations with a higher level
of complexity and abstract thought in order
to improve considerably in fluency and
precision. This level includes cultural, social
and historical aspects on different Hispanic
speaking countries as a way to explain the
relationship between language, history and culture.
The objective of this course is the proficiency and fluency in the Spanish language.
Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the comprehension and use of the language in
unrehearsed situations in culturally appropriate ways.
SPECIALIZED SPANISH COURSES
We also offer medical Spanish for nurses or doctors, business Spanish, Spanish for
lawyers and special courses for Spanish teachers.
If the student already speaks fluent Spanish, Academia de Español D’Amore offers
the opportunity to improve the ability to converse in Spanish. We help students to achieve
an understanding of the technical structure of Spanish, as it relates to the specific
interests. Student will learn more about our culture and its impact on the language.
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598

4. If the student is a Spanish Language teacher or studying for this profession, we
offer private courses providing additional training. We discuss Latin American history and
literature, focusing on textual and advanced grammatical analysis, composition and literary
style. You may select the area in which you would like to specialize, and then our Spanish
Language Coordinator will work closely with you to develop your own program.
Spanish Language Course for Medical Professionals
This course is designed for health care professionals who need to communicate
with Spanish-speaking patients and their families as part of their daily work. It
caters to various types of medical personnel including doctors, medical students,
nurses, paramedics and can be adapted to each student’s specific needs. This
specialized course is offered as a supplement to a general Spanish language
curriculum specially selected for each
student’s level. Together, these
courses facilitate effective
communication between provider and
patient within the health care setting.
Students will benefit more from this
course if they have reached at least an
intermediate level in Spanish, after
attending a regular group class
program at Academia de Español
D’Amore.
Academia de Español D’Amore
has designed the text carefully used in classes, in order to allow students to
become familiar with the Spanish medical vocabulary and have the necessary tools
to interview patients, explain or discuss various medical topics, and also act as
interpreter, if required.
The Medical Spanish course is offered through private tutoring; depending
on the month student attends, classes are offered in the morning and afternoon.
Occasionally students have the opportunity to further solidify language skills
through work at local clinics and hospitals with Costa Rican medical staff. However,
we cannot guarantee that you will able to participate as a volunteer or intern in a
medical facility in Quepos-Costa Rica.
Spanish Language Course for Teachers
This course is designed for Spanish teachers or those studying to become
teachers. The main objective is to improve their skills in three specific areas:
 Oral communication – fluency, pronunciation, structures and social, regional
and stylistic variations of the language.
 Culture – includes various cultural differences, based on the study of
current topics in Latin American literature and mass media communication.
 Grammatical precision – widens use of structures, taking into account
differences in style and the purpose of the message. Written
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
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5. communication is studied in detail, considering formal aspects such as
cohesion, coherence and precision.
The course provides Spanish teachers the opportunity to considerably
Spanish
improve their knowledge (linguistic and cultural), and to share their experiences in
the classroom with native Spanish speakers who work in the same field. Classes
definitely guarantee a better professional, who will improve performance on a daily
basis, applying training received at our school.
SPANISH CLASSES BY THE HOUR (without Homestay)
Academia de Español D’Amore offers private tutories. It consist in a minimum of
ten hours a week giving the students the o
opportunity to participate in our group
sessions of Latin dance classes, Costa Rican cooking classes and our
conversation hour.
Materials
In accordance with our teaching experience and specific needs of our students, our
teachers have produced our own teaching material, which includes games, charts,
flashcards, audio tapes and an original and special student book.
HOMESTAY WITH QUEPOS-COSTA RICAN FAMILIES
COSTA
Our families are carefully selected for their friendliness and warmth. They all offer clean
lodging in safe neighborhoods. Homestays are an excellent way to immerse the students
in Costa Rican culture. As part of the family, students will practice speaking Spanish
everyday and learn first-hand about the Costa Rican way of life and culture. You can stay
hand culture
with a family for a minimum of one week or as long as the program you choose.
long
You may also participate in our outside excursions, social and cultural acti
activities.
Some of these are available at an additional
charge, which varies according to the type of
activity.
SPANISH CLASS SCHEDULE
Morning classes start at 8:30a.m. and run until
12:30 noon. Then there is a free conversation
class hour from 12:30 to 1.30 pm. Afternoon
classes are from 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. (for students
receiving 4hrs/day).
After their Spanish classes the students
participate in the afternoon cultural activities (it will depends on how many students are
participating):
Latin dance classes (
(Tuesday from 3:00 - 4:00 pm.)
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598
367

6. Cooking classes (Wednesdays from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.)
Conversation classes (a free conversation class from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.)
Classes are conducted completely in Spanish. This is the ideal setting to improve your
conversation skills and fluency. Therefore, we have designed our classes to ensure
maximum student participation. Our homestay program, conversation classes and the
school's friendly atmosphere also provide additional opportunities for conversation.
In addition to activities and classes with the school, you may also participate in
activities outside Academia de Español D’Amore during your free time such as:
Visits to “Feria” on Fridays nights, and local markets.
Night outings to local discotheques and dance clubs.
Night outings to restaurants, bars and theaters located near the school.
Weekend excursions to beaches, rain forests, volcanoes and National Parks.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS
Description of Volunteer Program at Academia de Español D’Amore
One week to one year projects in Quepos, Costa Rica. Includes: Spanish lessons, project
set-up, room and board with host family, cultural activities, excursions, airport pick
up/transfer, pre-departure and local
support.
Academia de Español D’Amore
plans the all trip for you, so you can be safe
and comfortable while you maximize your
time lending a hand to help the local
community and gain a new perspective of
your own life! We offer a wide variety of
volunteer projects, including: social
services, orphanage & shelter assistance,
construction/maintenance,
health/medical/dental, administrative, public
policy, economy/business,
education/tutoring, environment/ecology.
Study Spanish with us and volunteer helping the elderly or handicapped children
while with us or in one of the national parks of Costa Rica after you have finished you
Spanish course. Volunteers come from the ranks of students or young professionals who
have the desire to contribute to a third world country development while experiencing life in
a Latin culture.
Volunteer Types
Childcare/children - Working with Special Needs Children. This project assists the
Foundation Roberta Felix in developing and staffing resources for disabled children in rural
communities of Costa Rica.
Health Care - Community Centers – Seniors - Working with the Elderly. Lead residents at
an elderly care center in various activities, help them cook, distribute food, teach English,
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598

7. and help them garden. Caring for the elderly helps create a compassionate and nurturing
atmosphere at homes for the elderly and senior centers.
Natural Resources - Parks- Study with Academia de Español D’Amore and volunteer in
one of the National Parks of Costa Rica before or after your study program.
By joining this pioneering programme as a volunteer, you will have a positive impact on the
lives of disabled children, the elderly, and the preservation of National Parks and learn or
improve your Spanish and explore many of Costa Rica's tourist attractions.
Qualifications
You must be at least 18 years of age, or with parental consent
Enjoy providing service and working with others, flexible in attitude, in good health and
have a desire to contribute
Capable to live and work in basic and sparse conditions, resilience to work in tropical
conditions, and adaptability to relate with a new culture
Speak at least minimal Spanish
Compliance with the rules and procedures of the volunteer program as established by
the National System of Conservation Areas
Two photographs passport-size
Copy of your passport
Filled out application
Medical insurance
Studying Spanish at Academia de Español D’Amore is a requirement
This Program is open to: Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families,
Couples and Individuals.
Academia de Español D’Amore's Mission Statement
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center is distinguished by its
determination to provide an exciting education through adventure, culture, and language
learning.
Program Fees Include:
20 hours of Spanish lessons in a group per
week
Homestay with 2 meals a day
Two to three hours of volunteer work per day
Registration fees and course materials
Cultural activities (one free surf or yoga
lesson per stay, dance-once a week, folkloric
evening once a month)
Placement oral test
Free break time refreshments
Free wireless and internet service at school
Basic accommodations and 3 meals a day at the National Parks
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598

8. Highlights
Practical experience in the area in
which you are interested
Hands-on practice to improve and
practice your inter-cultural and
communication skills
A reference from your volunteer
organization at the end of your term
A broader perspective on world views
Chance to learn other foreign cultural
activities (i.e. art, cooking, crafts, dancing, etc.)
Memorable experiences while traveling and seeing exotic sites
Lifelong friends from all around the globe
Advantages to your career path exemplifying your experiences, diligence,
independence, and inter-cultural communications
Support and development of self-confidence and personal skills
UNIVERSITY CREDITS
Many of our students have received college credit for their studies at Academia de
Español D’Amore. Most of these students
come on their own and apply for credit
independently at different universities in the
U.S., Canada and Europe. This is usually the
most economical option.
In order to meet the requirements for credit
we provide students and universities with the
following documents:
 After completing the course: a
certificate of attendance and a letter stating the Spanish level and type of course
received.
 Confirmation of enrollment
 A transcript of their grades, including the total amount of hours completed.
Usually, students who are applying for credit must first have approval from their university
prior to beginning studies at Academia de Español D’Amore. Most institutions also require
that students take a final exam and receive an evaluation of their work & progress during
the course. However, each university or college has a somewhat different system for
granting credit so if a student is interested in this option, we can work with their Spanish or
Study Abroad department to set up a program that will meet their specific credit
requirements.
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598

9. FIRST DAY OF CLASS
On the first day of class we require students to be at the school at 8:30 am so that we can
make an oral evaluation to determine their Spanish level (placement test). We also give
them information, a student card with telephone number and exact address of the
homestay (for giving a taxi driver), and general orientation.
On the first day of class the host family will pick the students up to Academia de
Español D’Amore after classes, accompany the student and make sure that the student
knows how to get to the school and back home. (It is usually a short 10-15 minute easy
bus ride. Students catch the bus at the local bus station and it drops them in front or our
school. Public bus is very easy to use, very cheap (about 0.50 cents) and they run every
15 minutes all day long. If students go out at night we recommend that they take a taxi
back home (taxis are also cheap $6).
Academia de Español D’Amore – Spanish Immersion Center – www.academiadamore.com –
info@academiadamore.com - Toll Free in USA 877-434-7290 – Wisconsin Tel/Fax: (262) 367-8598