Puerto Rico Summer Programs Catalog
Transcription
Puerto Rico Summer Programs Catalog
TASIS Spanish Summer Program Marine Life & Environmental Studies Dorado, Puerto Rico 1 INTRODUCTION With over 55 years of experience, TASIS has pioneered residential language programs abroad while making foreign language learning enjoyable and relevant as students become part of a wider international community. The TASIS Spanish Summer Program (TSSP) builds on this proud tradition of extending language learning beyond the classroom and introducing students to the local culture and habitat of Puerto Rico. A unique dimension of the Program is the collaboration with the world renowned Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment, which draws on the incomparable marine life and natural resources of the nearby Dorado Beach Resort. Through an experiential study of the coral reefs and tropical rain forest, students learn about the sensitive balance of our natural environments and what is required to make them sustainable. 2 Front cover: Aerial view of Dorado Beach 1 Campus Located near the most exclusive residential community of Dorado Beach in Puerto Rico, the Program makes full use of the beautiful, purpose-built TASIS Dorado campus. In addition to the excellent academic, arts, and sports facilities on campus, students have access to the outstanding recreational facilities of the gated Sabanera community adjacent to the School, which include a playing field, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and lakes for sailing and kayaking. An invaluable extension of the campus is the nearby Dorado Beach Resort, which serves as home to The Ambassadors of the Environment. With its 3 miles of sandy beaches, extensive coral reefs, and 1400 acres of tropical beauty and unique pterocarp rainforest, students enjoy a uniquely preserved tropical paradise. This also includes 11 miles of historic Rockefeller trails originally designed as part of the world’s first eco-friendly resort, which was recently rebuilt as the first Ritz Carlton Reserve in the Americas. 2 3 Academic Program The academic program focuses on conversational Spanish through full immersion and draws on the location of Puerto Rico as a living language laboratory. Daily Spanish classes are mixed with activity periods in art and music as well as Language in Life classes off campus, where students use Spanish in active situations with native speakers. Students are placed at the appropriate level of study based on their previous experience, level of maturity, and by taking a placement test, which is administered at the beginning of the Program. Course Offerings All courses follow the traditional syllabi of independent American schools. The work is appropriately challenging and developing fluency is the emphasis. More comprehensive course descriptions and syllabi are available upon request and are sent home with the official grade and comments at the end of the Program. 4 5 SPANISH I is designed for the student with little or no knowledge of the Spanish language. Spanish is the main language of instruction and communication in the classroom. All four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) are developed simultaneously, although the focus is on conversational Spanish. Students learn vocabulary associated with school, family, and pastimes. Basic grammatical concepts, regular/irregular verb conjugations, and basic tenses (present tense to simple future) are presented. Videos, films, texts, and frequent excursions support cultural discovery and understanding. Language requirement: none SPANISH II introduces students to more complex structures and grammar and reinforces beginner level skills. It is designed for the student who has had at least one year or more of Spanish. All language skills are developed, but the emphasis is on spoken Spanish and students are asked to communicate in Spanish at all times. Topics covered throughout the course include: sports, travel, health, shopping, hobbies, and daily activities. Cultural awareness is enhanced through the study of geography, history, and daily customs of the Hispanic world, as well as through the frequent excursions. Language requirement: 1+ year of Spanish 6 SPANISH III is for students who already have a firm foundation in Spanish and who are ready to expand their language skills through in-depth study and practice with more complex grammatical structures and acquisition of more extensive vocabulary. Focus is on developing greater fluency through constant use of Spanish during classroom discussions on specific themes, and by studying the culture of the host country. The objective of the course is to enable the student to engage in, and to understand, a conversation in Spanish with a high level of comprehension. Language requirement: 2+ years of Spanish SPANISH IV/V is designed for the more experienced student who is approaching fluency. This course aims to complete the acquisition of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through conversation, oral drills, essay writing, and comprehension exercises. More complex grammatical concepts are also reviewed and refined. The course provides an introduction to Spanish literature, which strengthens linguistic and cultural knowledge by studying Spanish literary texts and through in-depth class discussions. Language requirement: 3+ years of Spanish LENGUA EN VIDA ( for all levels) Frequent Language in Life activities encourage students to use Spanish with locals in everyday situations, both on and off campus. Such activities include visiting a market, ordering typical culinary specialties, engaging in community service projects, visiting museums, and working with local artists or artisans. Classes in art, music, and dance, bring to life the rich artistic heritage and folklore of Puerto Rico. 7 Ambassadors of the Environment A unique dimension of the Program is its collaboration with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment organization, located nearby at the Dorado Beach Ritz Carlton Reserve. By drawing on the immense natural resources at its doorstep and the expertise of experienced naturalists and marine biologists, the Program offers an introduction to the complexities of marine underwater worlds and tropical rainforests, which depend on a delicate balance for survival. Students learn about these precious endangered environments and what can be done to protect them. The sustainability of these environments is crucial to the health of our planet, and the goal of this program is to educate our students about ecological issues and how to preserve and protect our natural world. 8 Ambassadors of the Environment Activities * Coral Reefs Under the Sea * Pterocarp Ecosystem Trail Walk * Underwater Photography Workshop * Rockefeller Natural History Trail by Bike * Night Underwater Paradise Snorkel * Reef Adaptation Snorkel * Sardinera Bay Kayak & Snorkel * Dorado Beach Challenge Race * Cosmic Kayaking & Night Marine Life Exploration * Beach, Reef, Pterocarp Forest Sustainability * Parguera Bioluminescent Bay Kayak * El Yunque Rainforest National Park 9 Daily Schedule* 8:15 – 9:00 Breakfast 9:00 – 1:00 Spanish classes; 15-minute snack break 1:00 – 1:45 Lunch 2:00 – 5:00 Ambassadors of the Environment, sports, activities 5:00 – 6:00 Free time 6:00 – 6:45 Dinner 7:00 – 8:30 Study Hall 8:30 – 10:00 Activities, games, films, etc. 10:00 – 10:30 Free time 10:30 Check-in 11:00 Lights out * This Monday to Friday schedule illustrates a typical class day. Saturdays are normally full day excursions to various locations on the Island. Sundays are free days for special optional activities such as going to the beach, shopping trips, and cultural events. The schedule is subject to change, depending on the interests of the students and the needs of the Program. 10 11 Sports The Program uses the excellent sports facilities of the Sabanera community, as well as the championship golf courses and the water sports facilities of Dorado Beach resort. The afternoon sports program offers a wide range of recreational sports, including basketball, tennis, golf, soccer, swimming, fitness, kayaking, and sailing. Students may also enroll in the AC Milan Soccer Camp, which offers intensive training for competitive players under the supervision of highly-qualified, Italiantrained coaches. 12 Excursions & Activities: Discover Puerto Rico The wide range of excursions and activities complement the rigorous academic program and provide recreational opportunities. Students discover the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Puerto Rico while expanding their Spanish language skills. Weekend trips include such destinations as beautiful Old San Juan with its historic El Morro Castle, El Yunque Tropical Rainforest with its incomparable collection of fawn and flora, the world’s largest telescope at the Observatory in Arecibo, Las Cuevas de Camuy (caves created by the world’s third largest underground river), and the spectacular phosphorescent bay at La Parguera. On and off campus activities include salsa dancing, films and DVDs, hikes to explore the indigenous Taino Indians’ petroglyphs with hand carved drawings in stone, fishing in the Sabanera lakes, and local shopping trips. 13 Faculty and Students Teachers in the TASIS Spanish Summer Program are experienced, professional educators with a passion for working with students. They are carefully selected for their teaching qualifications, their experience working in American and international schools, as well as for their enthusiasm and energy for interacting with young people in all aspects of the programs, both academic and extracurricular. While providing challenging academic standards for students, members of faculty also serve as dormitory residents, activity leaders, and chaperones. The success of the Program rests largely on the professionalism of our teachers and counselors and the caring community they create. The Program attracts students aged 13-18 who are motivated and adventuresome. Their wide range of nationalities creates a dynamic international community and exposes students to a variety of cultures and languages. However, the Program remains small by design to encourage a friendly atmosphere in which each student can contribute and stand out as an individual. A 1:6 staff-student ratio and an average class size of 10 students allows for personalized instruction and individual attention. The positive interaction between students and staff greatly enriches the academic experience and makes for a meaningful and enjoyable summer. 14 Community Life Students are instrumental in contributing to community life. The family-style nature of the Program and the warm Puerto Rican hospitality encourage both friendships and fun. The special rapport between students and staff helps to shape an ideal learning environment both in and out of the classroom as faculty oversee dorm life, chaperone excursions, and run activities. An orientation session on the first day covers all aspects of the Program, including community expectations, and enables students to adjust quickly to their new surroundings. Students are housed on the attractive TASIS Dorado campus in spacious air-conditioned rooms. As part of the Sabanera gated community, students live in safe, modern, and secure facilities, and are carefully supervised by staff. 15 History In 1956 Mrs. M. Crist Fleming, the visionary international educator, founded TASIS, The American School in Switzerland, to provide highquality university preparatory education in the heart of Europe. TASIS is now the oldest independent boarding school in Europe and has grown to include schools in England and Puerto Rico, as well as a wide range of summer programs in Switzerland, England, and France. The TASIS Programs are renowned for their excellence and leadership in international education. This fine reputation extends Mrs. Fleming’s original vision of creating a community of students and teachers united by a commitment to learning, culture, ethics, and international understanding. All TASIS Programs are fully owned by the TASIS Foundation, a notfor-profit educational foundation based in Delémont, Switzerland. 16 Admissions Only motivated and adventuresome students ages 13-18 are encouraged to apply. A teacher recommendation is required, preferably from the student’s Spanish teacher. No previous Spanish or water sports experience is necessary. Due to the family-style nature of the Program, students are expected to follow the rules and participate in the Community Service program, which mostly involves ecological projects. The enclosed application form must be completed and returned with the $750 non-refundable deposit, which reserves a place in the program. The balance of the fees is due 30 days after receipt of the final invoice and before the Program starts. For additional information, please contact: The Director of Summer Program Admissions TASIS The American School in England Coldharbour Lane, Thorpe, Surrey, England TW20 8TE email: [email protected] • Tel: + 44 1932 582346 Program Campus: TASIS Dorado 11 Carr 693, Sabanera, Dorado, Puerto Rico 00646 • Tel: +1 787 796 0440 Other TASIS Summer Programs Switzerland The TASIS SUMMER PROGRAM (ages 14-18) offers French, Italian, English-as-an-Additional Language, Art History, Digital Photography, Drawing & Painting in Ticino, Fashion & Textile Design, Musical Theater, AC Milan Soccer, and the Armani Junior Basketball Camp. Based on the TASIS campus overlooking Lake Lugano, TSP attracts students from around the world. The Program includes sports and activities, and weekend excursions are offered to locations throughout Switzerland and Italy. LE CHÂTEAU DES ENFANTS (ages 6–10) is an international summer camp of learning and fun. Located on the Lugano campus, with its own separate living and dining facilities and swimming pool, CDE teaches French and English through lessons, games, activities, sports, music, and art. The closeknit, caring, family-style community is specifically tailored to younger children. The MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM (ages 11-13) offers French or English-as-an-Additional Language, Musical Theater, AC Milan Soccer, and the Armani Junior Basketball Camp. The MS Program is designed to challenge students academically and socially during this special transitional age. Classes meet in the mornings; afternoons are devoted to sports and activities (musical drama, art, archery, horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, windsurfing, waterskiing, tennis, and soccer). England France The TASIS FRENCH LANGUAGE PROGRAM (ages 14–17) is a 4-week course located in Château d’Oex, an idyllic Frenchspeaking alpine village. The Program offers students intensive French language and English-as-an-Additional Language instruction in a picture-postcard setting, along with sports, activities, and interesting weekend excursions. Extensive alpine activities and traditional sports are offered daily. All students may participate in an optional 6-day trip to Paris. The TASIS ENGLAND SUMMER SCHOOL (ages 10–18) located on the TASIS 46- acre campus 18 miles from London, offers 3- and 6-week courses including, Middle School Skills, Algebra II, Geometry, ShakespeareXperience, London Through a Lens, Television Broadcasting, SAT Review & College Admissions, International Business, Writing & Speaking Enhancement, TOEFL Review. IELTS preparation, Fashion & Textile Design, Algebra Review and Creative Drawing Sketching & 3D Design. The MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM (ages 11–13) is a 4-week course located in Château d’Oex. It offers students the opportunity to improve their English or French skills in the beautiful alpine setting of Pays d’Enhaut. Along with language study, students participate in mountain sports and cultural excursions to the medieval castle of Gruyère, a workshop in the Olympic Museum of Lausanne, and an outing to explore the traditional cheese-making process. Intensive English Language Courses are offered at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. All English Language courses are accredited by the British Council. LES TAPIES ARTS, PHOTOGRAPHY, & ARCHITECTURE PROGRAM (ages 13–18) offers an intensive 3-week design and cultural experience in the South of France. The Program is designed for motivated students who have a strong interest in the arts or who are considering a career in architecture, art, or design. Les Tapies’ ideal location just north of Provence provides extensive opportunities for excursions which draw on the cultural richness of such cities as Avignon and Aixen-Provence. The TASIS ECOLOGICAL LEADERSHIP ACTION PROGRAM (TELAP, ages 14 - 18) located in Château-d’Oex, is a 5-week intensive, project-based course focusing on environmental stewardship, wilderness survival, physiological wellness, and a special Eco-Action Project. Both programs include a wide variety of sports and activities, which take place every afternoon. There are weekend trips and excursions to places of interest throughout Great Britain, including Windsor, Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh, and Bath, as well as to central London. The programs end with a riverboat cruise and dance along the Thames with the historic buildings of London floodlit in the background. Les Tapies Art Teacher Workshop and the IB Visual Arts Teacher Workshop provide an outstanding opportunity for professional growth and allow teachers to reconnect with their passion for art and education. TASIS has offered challenging summer programs in Europe for nearly 60 years. Many of the summer courses offer academic credit. For further information, please contact the Director of Summer Admissions at +44 1932 582346 or [email protected]. Back cover: Historic Old San Juan with El Morro Castle in the foreground TASIS Dorado Spanish Summer Program 18 www.tasissummer.org