How to help your child succeed

Srta. Kristen Althouse

(this is the best way to contact me)

Tutoring: mornings from 8:15-8:45, afternoons from 3:30-4:00 by appointment

What will my child be learning?

Spanish 1: Spanish 1 is an introductory course to the culture and language, with an emphasis on speaking and grammar. No previous knowledge is Spanish is required, although it is helpful. The course focuses on the fundamentals of language: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The 7 themes covered in class include: basic greetings and introductions, describing personality traits and physical characteristics, the classroom, food, hobbies, family, home, community, and shopping. They will also learn about the varying cultural perspectives and practices related to these themes in the Spanish-Speaking world.

Spanish 2: Students will continue to build upon the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking acquired in Spanish I. They will deepen their understating of the language and culture through interactive and relevant activities. The prerequisite of Spanish II is Spanish I or a teacher recommendation. The different themes explored in Spanish II are: school activities, special events and celebrations, your community and you, childhood memories, accidents and natural disasters, and television and cinema.

Class Materials

  1. 3 ring binder (1.5 – 2”) and loose leaf paper
  2. pens / pencils
  3. 6 dividers

Learning a second language requires effort. In addition to participating in class and completing homework assignments, I expect students to study every night for at least 10 minutes. Here are some ways you can help your student succeed in Spanish class:

Students – Every day

  1. Check my website for important upcoming dates. If there is ever a question about whether or not there is homework due or an upcoming test, check the calendar.
  2. Spend 10 minutes reviewing vocabulary and grammar. There are any number of ways you can do this:
  3. Complete and study your vocabulary “acordeones.”
  4. Visit my website (on the RHS website, under “staff”) to look up grammar songs and notes.
  5. Make flashcards with a picture or English on one side and Spanish on the other. Look at the Spanish word and say the English word. If this is an action, act it out.
  6. Label items in your home with the Spanish word.
  7. Text with a friend in Spanish
  8. Teach your cat/dog/sibling/plant Spanish.
  9. Listen to Spanish pop music or podcasts for Spanish learners (“Coffee Break Spanish” is especially good).
  10. What other ideas can you come up with?
  11. Ask for help if you need/want it. Please come to me with questions! I am available after/before school for extra help.

Parents/Guardians – Every day/as needed

  1. Check my website for important upcoming dates. If there is ever a question about whether or not there is homework due, check the calendar.
  2. Make sure your child is studying Spanish every day for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Quiz your child on their vocabulary using flashcards or their acordeones.
  4. Call/Email Ms. Althouse with questions/concerns.