Destinations

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Cross Cultural Solutions

Cross Cultural Solutions, Well-polished tourist destinations are great but if you have ever thought about a new kind of vacation experience, it may be time for you to try volunteering abroad. Unlike a typical vacation, an organized volunteer travel program allows you to donate a portion of your day to a local community while you vacation. Volunteer organizations tend to operate in local communities with greater need for services – communities off the beaten path. Spending time in a local community with a group of fellow volunteers is a far cry from a typical tourist vacation and can be a real eye-opener. Working closely with local people gives you a much richer and unique insight into a culture that you would not have otherwise experienced. Many people who volunteer abroad are amazed at the depth of their cultural exchange experience. For some, it is life-changing. “I spent 4 weeks working in a classroom of five-year-olds within an orphanage. It was the most amazing experience of my entire life. Because of that trip I came to realize how big the world is — how enriching it is to live among different cultures. Today, over a month after I returned, I think of my experiences, and especially the people I met there, constantly. I am a more aware, open person, and I have found not only things within myself, but my life calling and aspiration.” Sarah, Cross-Cultural Solutions volunteer Headquartered in New Rochelle, NY, Cross-Cultural Solutions is a leading organization in the field of international volunteering. CCS has an infrastructure that supports approximately 4,000 international volunteers each year and over 250 sustainable community initiatives. More than 250 CCS in-country staff work year-round, ensuring that volunteers are involved in projects that contribute directly to the goals of each community. The CCS experience includes cultural and learning activities giving volunteers the opportunity to learn about the local culture. There is an in-depth orientation, language training, guest speakers and more. It’s not all work and no play. After volunteer work in the mornings and over the weekend, there is plenty of free time to relax, reflect, or explore the community. To contact CCS, visit their website at www.crossculturalsolutions.org, email info@crossculturalsolutions.org

Morocco

With a population of about 34 million people, Morocco is known to be the crossroads between Africa and Europe. Here, visitors will see the lingering influences of the surrounding areas, which contribute to the diversity of cultural attractions that Morocco has to offer. Whether it is the medieval city of Fez, the sandy shores of Agadir, the bustling cosmopolitan of Casablanca, or the historical monuments of the capital Rabat, students will be overwhelmed by the richesse of Moroccan culture.

Morocco is the perfect place for the multi-linguist. While Morocco’s official language is Moroccan Arabic, most Moroccans will understand Standard Arabic. Furthermore, more than half of the population speaks French, while about 3 million people, especially, in the rural areas of Morocco speak Tamazight, a dialect of Berber. Due to its close proximity to Spain, travelers will also find that some Moroccans speak Spanish.

Located in Rabat, the Center for Cross Cultural Learning is a private cultural institute housed in a 19^th century building, CCCL offers courses in Standard Arabic and Moroccan Dialect, which are taught by professionals trained specifically to teach Arabic as a second language. The aim of the programs is to provide participants with opportunities to learn from the rich cultural diversity of Morocco, and to better understand and appreciate the country’s cultural heritage.

Ideally located in the heart of Tetouan (Morocco’s only open port on the Mediterranean Sea, a few miles south of the Strait of Gibraltar, and about 40 miles from Tangier), Dar Loughat Cross-Cultural Language Center offers a wide range of Arabic language and cultural immersion programs. As a member of the Forum on Education Abroad, Dar Loughat prides itself on delivering high quality educational services. At Dar Loughat, students benefit from small class sizes between three and eight students. Language courses are given by enthusiastic, multilingual, qualified and experienced teachers, exclusively dedicated to teaching Arabic to non-native speakers. Through various immersion and language exchange activities, Dar Loughat provides its students with unique opportunities to get fully immersed in the Moroccan culture and Muslim life.

DMG Arabophon, which has schools in Fez, Casablanca, Tangiers, Rabat, and Meknes, teaches the Moroccan dialect as a natural approach to the more complex Standard Arabic. The school has developed its own study materials for Moroccan Arabic, and offers a practical “Explorer Course,” which ranges from two to 20 sessions of 90 minutes each. The school’s philosophy is that language is for real communication with real people, so students learn about non-verbal Arabic and experience a Moroccan meal to learn about etiquette and table manners.

With a rich and prestigious scholarly heritage, Fez is a special place for studying the Arabic language. Located here is the Subul Assalam Centre for the Arabic Language (SACAL). It was founded in 2006 with the intention of continuing the heritage and making the Arabic language accessible to people of all cultures and backgrounds. In addition to the Arabic language, SACAL also provides courses on various aspects of Moroccan culture as well as the Islamic tradition, delivered by qualified individuals in their respective fields.

Egypt

On the North coast of Africa with the Sinai Peninsula connecting it to Western Asia, Egypt has more than 82 million inhabitants. Known for its ancient monuments, such as the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx, countless travelers visit Egypt each year to marvel at its history and culture. Whether students visit the ancient artifacts in Luxor, the Royal Library in Alexandria, or the bustling modern capital of Cairo, they will be guaranteed a full cultural Egyptian immersion experience.

Following the Arab-Muslim conquest of Egypt in the 7^th century AD, Egyptians slowly adopted the Arabic language. Today, Arabic is the official language of the country. The Egyptian Arabic dialect is spoken by 77 million people in Egypt, and is widely understood throughout the Arab world. Nearly all language schools in Egypt will offer courses in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Egyptian Arabic. Students can usually choose one course of study or take a combination of both forms of Arabic.

With programs in Egypt, Morocco, Oman, and Jordan, AmeriSpan Study Abroad offers Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Arabic programs by the week, month or longer. Lodging at local hotels can be included in all locations while homestays are available at AmeriSpan’s three program locations in Morocco (Fez, Tetouan & Rabat). In Cairo, students are taught both MSA and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic, the most widely understood colloquial Arabic. In addition, Cairo offers special programs for Arabic teachers and journalists. The Amman, Jordan private instructional program can be tailored to all needs including Diplomatic Arabic. For those involved in banking, the petroleum industry or construction, Oman is a great place to learn Gulf Arabic. Finally, AmeriSpan offers a summer program for teenagers in Rabat, Morocco.

Located in one of the oldest and most exciting cities in the world, the American University in Cairo was founded 90 years ago to provide a U.S.-style liberal arts education to young Egyptians. The university’s Arabic Language Institute (ALI) offers a number of programs, including full-time intensive programs in the fall and spring semester, and an eight-week intensive summer program. The faculty teaches classes in Modern Standard Arabic, classical Arabic, and Colloquial Egyptian Arabic at the elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels. More than 500 students from 70 different countries study at the AUC each year, linking Egypt with the rest of the world through scholarly research, study-abroad programs, and partnerships with academic and research institutions.

Established in 1988, the Arabic Language Center in Cairo offers a wide range of courses, from beginners to expert, in single or group classes. The center offers courses in Modern Standard Arabic, Egyptian dialect, classical Arabic, Arabic journalism, and Islamic religion all taught in Arabic. Situated in a very quiet area in the Saudiya Buildings near the quarter of Heliopolis, the center guarantees students the right setting for study.

Also in Cairo, the Drayah Language Center seeks to give learners an overview of the customs and traditions of Egyptian culture through activities, such as cultural programs, conversation clubs, and entertaining field trips. Small classes enable the teachers to give students the individual attention they need. Drayah offers all levels of Arabic language courses focusing on speaking, listening, reading and writing with a special attention placed on pronunciation, oral communication, and the appropriate usage of the language. The school offers both Colloquial Egyptian Arabic and Modern Standard Arabic in individual or group settings. Other course options include Quranic Arabic, Islamic Studies taught in English, Arabic poetry, Arabic calligraphy classes, and Arabic for Business.

Fajr Center for Arabic Language in Cairo was founded in 1995 with the sole purpose of teaching standard Arabic to non-Arabic speakers. The Fajr Center offers group and private programs, as well as an intensive summer program and an intensive winter program. Not only can students take courses in Classical Standard Arabic and in “Ammeyah,” the Egyptian spoken dialect, but students can also take courses in Arabic phonetics, calligraphy, diplomatic relations, trade relations, and Arabic for Journalism and Mass Communication.

Qortoba Institute for Arabic Studies (QIAS) is situated in the heart of Alexandria, one of the most culturally vibrant and diverse cities of Egypt, within walking distance of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as local shops and restaurants. The institute specializes in teaching classical Arabic to students from non-Arabic speaking countries by solely utilizing the Arabic language in the classroom from day one.

Through both their on-site and distance-learning programs, QIAS is able to accommodate students globally. The institute offers both private and group classes. Female and male students are taught separately by teachers of the same gender, and group class sizes range from four to six students. In addition to regularly scheduled course periods, QIAS offers four annual, seasonal intensives and a scholarship program. Students also have the option of enrolling in Colloquial Egyptian Arabic as well as Quranic and Islamic Studies.

Valencia

Audio Gil Spanish Institute focuses on the planning and development of Spanish for Foreigners for all levels and stands out for its teaching quality and the professionalism of its personnel. Their main activity is to spread Spanish culture and encourage international relationships.

It is located in the heart of Castellón, a lively town in the north of the Valencian Community, on the east coast of Spain, by the Mediterranean sea. Castellón grants warm weather all the year. You can enjoy a quiet and relaxing life, away from the hubbub of the big cities, but with a much to be desired cultural and touristic offer. They teach in accordance to the levels recognized by the Cervantes Institute: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1,  C2.

They offer the following courses:

General Spanish: 15 hours / week

Intensive: 20 hours / week

Superintensive: 25 hours / week

One to one

Practical courses (3 or 6 hours / week).

Spanish for specific purposes (business, tourism, DELE…)

The institution also offers the possibility to combine the Spanish course with work practice. They are accredited by Cervantes Institute, and CEELE,  Quality certificate granted by Alcalá de Henares University for quality in Spanish teaching. Spanish courses include guided visits to the most touristic places in town,  the province (Columbretes Islands, Peñíscola, Morella, Benicasim), their community (Valencia, Sagunto) or the country (Barcelona, Madrid, Sevilla). Students can also practice sports or cultural activities.

Staying with a family is the most common option and the most suggested by them. They also offer the possibility of staying in a hotel, apartment or a students residence.

¡¡Live with Spanish Institute your best language experience!!

For further information, log into www.spanishinstitute.es or email spanish@audiogil.es

Castilian At Its Source

Castilla y León

Spain’s largest region is home to many of its most ancient cities and landmarks, including Salamanca with its historic university, Segovia’s 2,000 year old Roman aqueducts, and Valladolid’s array of castles. With around 180,000 inhabitants, Salamanca is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, with an impressive old city and numerous Renaissance buildings. Brimming with history, the city’s many university students add an extra spark of life, while many UNESCO world heritage sites can be found in the area, including Ávila’s old city and surrounding wall, and the Catedral de Burgos, a 13th century Gothic cathedral. The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is a medieval Christian pilgrimage route that passes through the region and remains popular with modern travelers. With breathtaking mountain landscapes and abundant wildlife, the Gredos National Reserve attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world with its hiking routes winding through charming villages on old roman roads and local shepherd’s trails.

don Quijote Salamanca

Salamanca is well-known for its educational institutions: The University of Salamanca was founded more than 700 years ago, making it one of Europe´s oldest. Its streets burst with life, its monuments are plentiful (Salamanca is a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site), and it is recognized for the pure Castilian Spanish its inhabitants speak in what is considered the birthplace of the Spanish language. The don Quijote School in Salamanca is located in the heart of the city center and occupies a recently and beautifully restored 16th-century monastery. The school offers general intensive and super intensive Spanish courses from beginner to complete proficiency levels, as well as more specialized courses such as Business Spanish, Spanish and History/Art/Literature, D.E.L.E. preparation, and premium courses. Students can start any Monday; the schools are open year-round and class size is limited to a maximum of only eight students per group, guaranteeing a high level of personalized attention to each student.

For further info, visit www.donquijote.org

Ábaco

Ábaco is located in Salamanca in the city center, close to the Plaza Mayor, a popular meeting point for students and travelers. A team of enthusiastic professionals aims to teach students in an effective, enjoyable, and professional manner. Teachers are selected based on their enthusiasm, patience, and ability to listen, but most of all for their love of teaching. Courses combine education, culture, exciting trips and mind-expanding experiences — the perfect combination for language travelers. Variety and challenge are key elements in their courses. Accommodation is offered either with Spanish host families or in student apartments to facilitate real contact with Spanish culture.

Colegio Delibes

Situated in a historic building five minutes walk from the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, Colegio Delibes has been recently restored and equipped with the latest technology. The school features twenty air-conditioned classrooms, a video and conference room, an audio lab, library, and an IT room with free internet and wireless access. There is also an enclosed patio with a Castilian well where students can relax with a coffee and socialize during breaks. The college is best characterized by its authentic international ambience with a complete program of extra-curricular activities, most of which are free of charge for students of the school. Accomodations vary between host famlies, student residences, and shared apartments. Colegio Delibes is known for its intensive, wide-ranging courses, small class size, and personalized attention: the staff strives to help students feel at home while living abroad.

AmeriSpan Study Abroad

With programs in Salamanca, Madrid and elsewhere in Spain, AmeriSpan Study Abroad offers Spanish language programs by the week, month or longer. Lodging at homestays, dorms and shared apartments can be included in all locations. Why not try a Spanish and Flamenco, Scuba Diving or Cooking? A Running of the Bulls special program is offered in Pamplona every July. In addition, professional programs are available including Spanish for Business, Law, Healthcare, Engineering and Tourism. We even offer internships. Of course, we are happy to create group programs for any of these programs including special prices and inclusive tours and activities. More than 30,000 people of all ages have chosen to study abroad with AmeriSpan around the world for the last 15 years. AmeriSpan’s experience, client support and triple guarantee (price, money-back and satisfaction) allows students of all ages a worry-free language program.

Kate Sommers-Dawes is assistant editor for Language Magazine, and instituted a French and Art program for students in Los Angeles.

Mallorca

The “Real i Pontificia Universitat Literaria de Mallorca” was created on 30th. August 1483 by the king Ferdinand the Catholic with the name “Estudis Generals”. In 1951 “Estudio General Luliano”  starts again in the new building as a culturals and educational center.

In addition to cultural activities there are various courses like:

Foreign languages: Arabic, English, French, German, Italian and Russian.

Spanish for foreigners (Studies reward with a Barcelona University diploma).

SPANISH COURSE:

Winter Course: From 05.10.2009 to 29.01.2010

Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10:00 to 12:30 or 17:30 to 20:00

Tuition 400 €

Spring Course: From 05.10.2009 to 29.01.2010

Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10:00 to 12:30 or 17:30 to 20:00

Tuition 400 €

Summer Course: From 12.07 to 30 of July 2010

Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 13:00

Tuition 420 €

Travel 4 Teens

Travel for Teens offers a variety of language trips to Spain including this exciting new trip:

Anybody interested in taking their Spanish up a level and putting it to use in the real world should consider this trip. Sessions start in Madrid, where students have two full days to explore the best of what the capital of Spain has to offer; eat paella in the Plaza Mayor, see the Royal Palace, shop in the Puerta del Sol in the heart of the city, check out the Museo del Prado and the Reina Sofia, experience the nightlife, and much more.

From Madrid students head down to the ancient fabled city of Granada. Accommodations are just a few minutes walk from the city center, a centuries old, massive cathedral, and a part of town where tea shops, falafel restaurants, and artisan markets abound.

There’s plenty of time to explore Granada’s famous Albaicin neighborhood, known for its twisty narrow cobblestone streets and gleaming whitewashed houses. As you learn your way around you’re sure to meet neighborhood locals and practice your Spanish while navigating the maze like streets dotted with miniature plazas with views of the Alhambra Palace and the Sierra Nevada mountains. At night students often gather in these little plazas to play Flamenco and sing into the early hours. The Albaicin is also home to schools of Flamenco dance and guitar.

On the weekends, there are excursions to beautiful Seville, where you’ll see the legendary Guadalquivir River and the tomb of Christopher Columbus (kept in one of the largest Cathedrals in the world!), the Alcazar Palace and Gardens, and la Plaza de Espana. You can also visit the Costa del Sol where you’ll have time to relax on the pristine sandy beaches of the Mediterranean and eat food unlike any you’ve tasted before.

What makes Granada particularly unique is the Moorish influence left from hundreds of years of Arab rule—the architecture, the food and the artisan markets mixed with modern Spanish culture make the city the world renowned cultural Mecca that it is. So join us this summer for this incredible opportunity to learn and LIVE Spanish in this beautiful city.  You will come away with a learning experience unlike any other and an understanding of what it’s like to live as a local in the old exotic world of Andalucía, Spain.

Andalucía

Located in the south, Spain’s Andalucía region is home to such preeminent cities as Seville, Málaga, Córdoba, and Granada. Due to Andalucía’s history of hundreds of years of Moorish rule, its countryside is dotted with spectacular monuments. One such celebrated landmark is the Alhambra in Granada, a medieval palace built by Muslim rulers whose Arabic name means “the red fortress” and whose crimson walls are embellished with ancient Arabic poetry. Another of Andalucía’s architectural triumphs is the bell tower of the Cathedral of Seville, known as the Giralda. Originally built in the 12th century as the minaret of the mosque that once stood on the site, the Giralda endures as a synthesis of Almohad and Spanish renaissance architecture.

The Mezquita of Córdoba, another magnet for travelers, is an eighth century mosque of onyx columns and gilded ceilings that is today a cathedral and is characterized by architecture that has been slowly transformed over centuries of invasions and additions. Its belfry’s pinnacle offers a spectacular view of the Courtyard of the Orange Trees below and the city beyond.

The region’s climate and beaches have made it a popular European tourist destinations, but it still retains its mysterious, authentic flavor.

Schools in Andalucia

Carmen de las Cuevas

After traveling through alleys of Granada, visitors to this school reach an ancient gateway with a sign that reads Carmen de las Cuevas. On opening the door, students enter a maze of staircases, classrooms, a library, terraces, and patios. A subtle sound of Flamenco music from someone practicing the guitar accompanies the visit while Carmen, who has been running the school for 25 years, hosts the tour. Terrace views include the Alhambra, the centuries-old Moorish fortress. Carmen de las Cuevas is an Instituto de Cervantes-accredited school, and offers courses from a beginner’s first words to preparation courses for the official Spanish diplomas (DELE). The school offers an interactive and cross-situational learning environment, where students use their Spanish in activities such as guided visits in and around Granada, horseback riding, or cookery classes, and is also a renowned Flamenco school. Thus, students can combine Spanish classes with Flamenco, be it by dancing or playing the guitar.

Escuela de Idiomas Nerja

Nerja is a town of 20,000 inhabitants situated on the Costa del Sol near Málaga that still retains its traditional Andalusian character. It is surrounded by mountains and beautiful beaches. Its climate, with an average year-round temperature of 68ºF, is ideal. Farming, fishing, and tourism are its main income sources. Escuela de Idiomas Nerja, founded in 1980, is situated in the center of the old town in a typical Andalusian house with a large garden, terraces, and patio, only a few minutes walk from accommodations, shops, and beaches. The school has 16 comfortable classrooms and offers 14 intensive Spanish programs with four to six classes per day from one to 36 weeks. The student population is diverse, and the school has its own accommodation, Club Costa Nerja, which has 28 rooms with private bathrooms. Apartments and host family accommodations are also available. It is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes.

For further information visit www.idnerja.es

Instituto Andalusi

The school opened in 2002 and offers spanish courses for people from different countries. They offer Intensive Courses for adults and children but also preparation courses for the D.E.L.E. exam and business Spanish.

The school is situated in a very quiet area near the sea and therefore it is possible to hold classes in the garden. In the school’s garden there is a swimming pool which invites you to cool off while improving your tan. The Andalusian patio, with its shady trees and a barbeque provides an ideal opportunity to become better acquainted to other students.

In their Arabian style “bodega” we provide computers with free internet access as well as a TV with international channels and a library, where you can rent both movies and books.

The school building consists of seven tastefully decorated classrooms.

Excursions and activities: The Instituto Andalusi, offers a variety of excursions and activities, which focus on the Spanish language and culture, such as excursions to Cordoba, Granada, Seville and Morocco but also visits of museums, memorials and churches in Malaga. Moreover we are offering activities in the school building like cooking class of Paella or other Spanish specialities. At the beginning of the course (once in a month) our students are welcomed with a party and at the end of the course (once a month) they get a farewell party. It is also possible to rent cars, motor bikes and bicycles in the school.

For further information visit www.instituto-andalusi.com

Escuela Montalbán

Escuela Montalbán-TANDEM Granada has been teaching Spanish as a foreign language since 1986, is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, and is also a DELE examination center. The school facility, with its Andalusian architectural style, friendly classrooms, and beautiful courtyard, retains much of the charm and intimacy of a family home. It is situated in a quiet location just ten minutes away from the city center. An extensive cultural program always complements Spanish courses. Over the last few years, Escuela Montalbán’s complementary cultural program for Body & Mind has gained great popularity among students. Students can choose five different options: Spanish traditional cooking classes, dance courses such as Flamenco and Tango, horse riding in the Sierra Nevada national park, or trekking in the Alpujarras. The school is a member of TANDEM International network of language schools. The Spanish in Spain Program gives students the opportunity to study in two different cities in one trip in collaboration with the other schools in San Sebastián, Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Cádiz.

Tools for Teaching English

Language Magazine’s selection of products
that incorporate technology into the ESL classroom

Alloy Multimedia
ESL ReadingSmart is a web-based English language learning environment
founded on a unique instructional design. It is easily implemented
as a student-centered, stand-alone application or a blended learning
environment, integrating online student work and classroom instruction.
The program offers individualized, content-based instruction to
develop English language proficiency with emphasis on literacy and
cross-curricular vocabulary development for newcomers, beginners,
intermediate, early advanced, and advanced English learners.
It monitors student progress, and tracks students’ readability and
grade gains based on The Lexile Framework for Reading, providing
daily, weekly, and on-demand student reports. Tracking is at individual,
class, school and district level.
Several independent studies have shown that ESL ReadingSmart is
an effective intervention program that raises students’ reading and language
scores. This year’s independent study was presented in the
National Forum of Teacher Education Journal in April. The authors stated,
“by working with culturally appropriate text at their functional reading
level, students were able to demonstrate gains while experiencing
literature that may not otherwise have been available to them.”
The program’s user friendly interface is backed by a team of professionals
always available to answer questions and provide support.
New content is regularly added so students and teachers are never
saddled with static software.
Califone
Podcasts provide new ways for students to interact with the content
matter as well as to demonstrate their learning. By creating podcasts,
students can display and extend their creativity using audio as a
means of self-expression. In addition, teachers can use podcasts to
communicate regularly with parents by posting school updates on their
web site. They can also publish lesson guides in a podcast format to
help students who many have missed sections, or who simply need
reinforcement when completing homework assignments.
MP3 players are especially useful in language learning and ELL
classrooms, where students may need additional reinforcement or
teacher guidance outside the classroom. Recording a podcast in a
language learning environment can illustrate to the teacher how well a
student’s pronunciation, diction and understanding have progressed
over time. Plus, it allows teachers to keep a digital file of each student’s
progress, which is helpful for long-term assessment.
The easy-to-use MP3 player includes a built-in microphone and
dual headphone jacks — both industry firsts — making it ideal for
learning centers, language labs and libraries. The playback volume is
also capped at 85dB for hearing safety.

English Computerized Learning
Pronunciation Power
Pronunciation Power products are user- friendly, interactive programs
for beginner to advanced English learners of all ages. They are excellent
tools for students to learn correct English pronunciation. The easy,
effective design has numerous lessons and exercises for practice using
visual and auditory feedback.
Pronunciation Power 1 and 2 include lessons for individual sound
work and speech recognition. The lessons include animated, graphic
side views to teach how each sound is made. There are extensive
practice exercises in: listening, comparative words, and in word and
sentence pronunciation including intonation for syllable or word stress.
The 8 in 1 Interactive English Dictionary teaches the meaning and
pronunciation of words using pictures and sentences and has several
unique searches, such as “search by word ending.”
All instructions and lessons for both programs are available in 12
different languages.
Pronunciation Power also offers: Introductory English Grammar and
Vocabulary with Color Key. This program uses a unique Color Key to
help you learn and remember the English grammar and vocabulary
that need for basic communication in English. After completing the
Lesson, you can test yourself by trying the exercises for the lesson.
Their score is automatically given when you complete the exercise.
The Idiom program uses memorable and unique pictures and exercises
to aid the student in remembering idioms.
All products are available by CD, download or online membership.
ETA/Cuisenaire
SunSprouts Interactive
Delightful characters, funny stories, and fascinating leveled nonfiction
give K-3 students compelling reasons to read, write and explore text
with SunSprouts Interactive, the literacy software system from
ETA/Cuisenaire. Whether the child is new to English or fluent in the language,
this interactive CD-ROM offers targeted activities that require little
preparation by the teacher, and make it easy to tailor instruction to
proficiency levels. The flexible and engaging program creates a complete
interactive literacy learning station with activities for building comprehension,
fluency, vocabulary skills, and writing. SunSprouts
Interactive focuses on aspects of the English language that are often
difficult for children reading in a second language, including development
of vocabulary awareness, grammatical forms, and idiomatic
expressions. The lessons are filled with alliteration, rhymes, and other
repetitive structures that familiarize ESL students with English.
The program immerses students in developing sight-word recognition
and vocabulary as they follow along while text is read aloud, then
record their own oral reading and play it back to hear their voices.
SunSprouts Interactive also allows students to create and illustrate
original texts that can be “published” and shared. The software
records students’ scores for teacher review, and assessments track
development of literal, inferential, and visual comprehension skills.
Reports can be generated by student or for the entire class. The flexibility
of this program allows teachers to assign specific individual lessons,
or group students with similar skills and needs. SunSprouts
Interactive can be used as a supplemental resource with any reading
program to reinforce skills and track progress.
Franklin Electronic Publishers
12 Language Speaking Global Translator
The Speaking Global Translator contains over 450,000 words (including
335,000 inflections) and 12,000 phrases, and speaks 115,000
words in recorded human voice. Students can translate to and from
English into Chinese (Mandarin), Dutch, French, German, Italian,
Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.
Students just enter a word in their native language and the device will
speak and show the translation in their language and English. A voice
recording feature allows users to record custom words and phrases.
The spell correction feature finds even misspelled words, and the
seven line screen aids visibility.
Features Include:
■ An MP3 Player to download and play MP3 files to enjoy music and
more while looking up words and phrases
■ Chinese, Japanese and Korean are displayed phonetically using the
Roman alphabet and in Asian characters
■ Organizer, local/world clock, calculator, currency and metric converter
■ Five games
■ USB connection
Global Language Education Services
Online Mini-Courses for Language Teachers
Global Language Education Services (GLES) offers a suite of online
mini-courses that introduce language teachers to innovative instructional
techniques. Each technique is designed to employ authentic materials
in ways that are both engaging and effective. Currently available
mini-courses cover “Movie Talk,” a technique for employing featurelength
movies in beginning and low-intermediate language classrooms;
“Co-Author,” a cyclic pattern of interaction in which a language teacher
guides intermediate students toward more proficient writing in their second
language; and “Reading Club,” a multi-faceted technique for using
authentic materials to boost the reading proficiency of intermediate language
students. All of the techniques covered in GLES mini-courses
are research-based and have been extensively field-tested.
The GLES online mini-courses include discussion boards and optional
hands-on activities that develop mastery of the techniques. Participants
can choose to take these courses in audit mode, which provides access
to materials and discussion boards but no instructor feedback, or graded
mode, which (for an additional fee) offers feedback, evaluation, and certificates
for Continuing Education Units. The mini-courses are offered every
month, and there are special group rates for cohorts.
The GLES online mini-courses were created by Dr. Ashley Hastings,
Professor Emeritus of TESOL (Shenandoah University). Dr. Hastings is
known internationally as the originator of the FOCAL SKILLS approach
to language teaching, and has been a pioneer in the development of
online language teacher training.
MindPlay
FLRT — a Fluent Reading Trainer
MindPlay offers educators working with English Language Learners a
solution that will help students enjoy reading by dramatically improving
their reading fluency rate as they become confident in speaking
and reading English. FLRT — a fluent reading trainer works to
increase reading speed while ensuring comprehension in any student
who can decode. Students conduct a number of technology-driven
activities to train their eyes to read more efficiently. One FLRT activity
trains the eyes to move from left to right and to sweep in one movement
enhancing visual memory, silent reading skills, speed and reading
comprehension.
As students move into reading passages, the stories in the program
are either delivered randomly or they can be selected by teachers. Each
passage is designed to be read in six minutes or less, allowing most
students to complete three stories or more in a class period.
Accompanying questions test 18 different reading comprehension skills.
The program aims to keep students challenged while reading at
their own pace by providing assignments that are individualized to
match each student’s unique abilities. It can be used for classroom
instruction or as remedial help.
FLRT also provides teachers and administrators with easy management
and tracking. Reports can gauge a student or an entire class
performance. Success can be broken down by question type,
improvement statistics from initial testing date to current date, effective
words-per-minute rate, and sight/high-frequency words for students
who are struggling. Reports are available in PDF format so they can be
emailed to parents or they can be printed out in color or grayscale for
improved data visualization.
PhonicsTutor
PhonicsTutor is a research proven, multi-sensory reading method for
all ages and reading settings. Its independent instruction in orthography
enables ESL students to learn to read reflexively and spell accurately
at a rate that keeps pace with the vocabulary and comprehension
they are gaining in English. This performance of a reading program
is amazing considering the ambiguous and extensive orthography
of English. Students who complete the program can pronounce,
read, and spell 93 percent of all words in print, e.g., machinery, prodigious,
picturesque, azure. It covers all patterns of English orthography
that occur at least once in a million words in print.
At TESL ’97 in Toronto, PhonicsTutor was one of only four products
(out of 189 products) that received the designation of “Excellent.” This
computerized Orton-Gillingham program is a synthetic-analytic reading
method that is recognized around the world for its efficacy in the remediation
of dyslexia and for its ability to assist both native and nonnative
speakers of English in learning how to read and spell. The
expanded curriculum includes software, coordinated books, and flashcards,
and provides self-teaching instruction so that ESL/EFL learners
are prepared for the vocabulary and reading expectations of college
and professional careers.
Protea Textware
Issues in English 2
Issues in English 2 is an effective, innovative, and comprehensive software
program for English language and literacy learners. With four levels
from beginning to advanced, students learn a wide range of
English language skills within meaningful contexts. The issues —
Sport, Media, Technology, Fame, Education, Immigration, Wilderness,
and Languages — are relevant and engaging.
The program is content-rich, with over 700 interactive exercises
based on the stimulus videos. These include reading and listening
comprehension, grammar and vocabulary, pronunciation, and writing.
Scientific Learning
Scientific Learning develops software products that increase brain
power—exercising areas of the brain to help it process more efficiently,
the way physical workouts train the body to be more fit and strong.
The products are used in thousands of schools nationwide, helping
ELL, struggling readers and at-risk learners in grades PreK-12. The
Fast ForWord program has proven results in schools throughout the
country, where students have made dramatic and enduring gains in
eight to twelve weeks. The products build on cumulative breakthroughs
in neuroscience research revealing that the human brain can
continue to develop and improve the efficiency of its processing
throughout life. Processing efficiency is how the brain functions to support
learning and intellectual activity, including memory, attention, processing
rate, and sequencing. Scientific Learning Reading Assistant
provides guided oral reading using advanced speech recognition technology
with scientifically-based courseware to help students strengthen
fluency, vocabulary and comprehension to become proficient, lifelong
readers. It provides each student with an active one-on-one reading
tutor that acts as a patient, non-judgmental listener and provides
the much needed reading practice that benefits them. Progress
Tracker is an online accountability tool that allows educators to monitor
student progress and results, and Reading Progress Indicator is an
easy-to-use computerized assessment for quick evaluations of student
performance. When students can process more effectively, all other
learning activities get accomplished more efficiently. It is then the dedication
of teachers and the investment in other learning programs yield
better results. Importantly, students are more motivated to learn and
have better self-esteem.

Pais Vasco

San Sebastian

Lacunza, based in San Sebastian, is part of the International House World Organization, a network of language schools around the world known for their quality language courses and dedication towards education and teacher training.
As such, Lacunza offers courses that cater to all levels and requirements. The most popular courses are the Intensive courses which, depending on what outcome the student desires, include 20 lessons of 45 minutes each per week as a basis and as many private lessons in the afternoon as requested by the student. Private lessons can also be taken independently of the Intensive courses. These give the students the opportunity to focus on specific fields of interest and topics of study.
Other popular courses include the Junior Summer Course and Lacunza Summer Camp for our younger students. The Spanish + surfing course is always a favorite with more adventurous students. Apart from time spent in the classroom, activities are organized daily so that students have the chance to live the Spanish life and get to know the city and all it has to offer. From museum visits and trips to the aquarium, to visiting the island just off the famous beach “La Concha”. Going for pintxos, similar to tapas, in the evening in the Old Town of San Sebastian followed by a night on the town is among the favorite night time excursions amongst the students.

For further information, visit www.lacunza.com

Getting Passionate about Italian

Hannah Zeiler samples the immersion programs in Italy’s most seductive cities

Florence (or Firenze) is the capital of the famed region of Tuscany and sits on the banks of the river Arno, between the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian seas, almost in the middle of the Italian peninsula. This beautiful city, world renowned for its art and architecture, is considered by many to be the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. In 1982, the historic center of Florence was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Florence is an elegant city with so much to do and see. The city center is simply filled to the brim with stunning sights, museums to make Getty green with the originals of the most famous and finest art, shopping to die for, as well as exquisite food and wine. Florence is an excellent city to immerse yourself in while learning about the Italian language and culture, but plan your trip out of the main tourist season (June-September) to avoid the mass influx of tourists who overtake the city in the summer.

Accademia Europea di Firenze (AEF) is situated right in the heart of historic Florence, literally feet away from the Cathedral, and is dedicated to teaching the Italian language and culture. Because of its fantastic location, AEF participates actively in the city’s diverse cultural activities, creating an atmosphere of spontaneous and pleasant interaction between Italians and foreigners.

Their instructors keep up-to-date with methodology and research to assure natural and active learning of the Italian language. As well as regular courses, AEF offers a rich program of optional language and cultural activities (concerts, seminars, films, visits to museums and farms, language games, etc.) as well as extra-curricular and recreational activities (parties, dinners, food and wine tasting, sports, etc.) every week to ensure not only the enjoyment and cultural fulfillment of students, but also to encourage them to practice their language skills.

The Galilei Institute of Italian Language and Culture, established in 1985 in the center of Florence, specializes in full immersion Italian in intensive one-to-one and small group programs. Their experience in one-to-one education and personalized programs makes them the ideal choice for students with only a short time to acquire a solid and active knowledge of the Italian language. For this reason, the school provides training to some of the world’s top companies. One week of their one-to-one program corresponds to about a month in a class with other students. The secret of their quality is very simple: excellent teachers with years of training and the school’s size, which has been kept rather small in order to give everyone the opportunity to receive individual attention. Their Italian courses are offered all year round (including Christmas, Easter, and summer), in a choice of three different types of environments: the city of Florence, for those who wish to have a more immediate contact with people, the museums, and sights of the city; the countryside of Florence (Chianti), for those who seek concentration and tranquility; or the island of Elba and the Tuscan coast, for those who wish to study in the serenity of the seaside.

Since 1976, Language Liaison has been offering international students the opportunity to learn Italian in Florence, in a friendly and thoroughly enjoyable atmosphere. They offer Italian and choices in the Arts with everything from Studio Arts to Visual Arts, Theater, Interior Design, Furniture Design, Industrial Design, Textile, Jewelry Design, Restoration and Conservation, and Archaeology. There are also certificate programs in Mediterranean Cuisine and Food Culture, Baking and Pastry, Wine Expertise, and Food Communication and Design. For adventure, there is even an Italian and Sailing program.

Milan

Located in the plains of Lombardy in Northern Italy, and once a capital of the Roman Empire, Milan (Milano) is one of the largest cities in Italy and is regarded as one of Europe’s creative capitals. This fashionable city has plenty to offer the restless vivitor with a slew of clubs, operas, theaters, sports (being home to two of the world’s top soccer teams), restaurants, and of course, plenty of high-end shopping. Milan provides students excellent surroundings to learn the language of Italy as well as the rich culture of one of its top, powerhouse cities. Milan’s location is optimal: not far from the sea, the mountains, and the lakes.

International House Milan is located in the city’s center close to numerous famous monuments and historical attractions. The works of world renowned painters, writers, and musicians can all be enjoyed here.

The school offers a variety of courses throughout the year; catering to individuals and groups, specializing in General and Professional Italian using the communicative method. In addition, they offer culture modules, learning activities outside of the school, and exam preparation for CELI and CIC — certificates from the University for Foreigners of Perugia. IH Milan’s classes have an average of seven students, taught by highly trained teachers in a friendly atmosphere with a full program of social activities. Accommodation facilities are carefully selected and their host-families always welcome students with typical Italian warmth.

Linguadue has been offering students the opportunity to learn Italian in Milan since 1990. The school is in an excellent location in the center of Milan in a well-known street — Corso Buenos Aires. The school attracts students from more than 50 different countries, mostly interested in design, fashion, music, and business, so they offer language programs for professionals, for academics, and for everyday situations. They also have schools in Sicily and Florence.

Thanks to its creative and innovative approach, L’Orlando Curioso has become a reference point for learning Italian in Milan. The school is located in an historic building in a very central and charming neighborhood with a beautiful park and a wide range of shops, monuments, restaurants, and bars.

L’Orlando Curioso offers several different courses to students from all over the world. Their teaching method is based on communicative aspects of the language with creative, up-to-date and authentic materials (mostly produced by teaching staff) that make L’Orlando Curioso so unique. They also offer free linguistic workshops and other cultural and recreational activities.

Rome

Rome (Roma), the majestic capital of Italy as well as the Lazio region, is located in the central-western portion of the Italian peninsula, where the river Aniene joins the Tiber. Also known as the Eternal City, Rome’s rich history stretches back thousands of years and, being one of the few major European cities that escaped World War II relatively unscathed, central Rome remains essentially Renaissance and Baroque in character. The historic center of Rome has also been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This ancient city is a dream destination in which to to learn about the Italian language as well as the fascinating history and culture the city has to offer.

CIAO ITALIA is a center specializing in teaching Italian to foreigners and was founded by accredited teachers working in this field for more than 20 years. It is a member of ASILS and ELITE — Italian and European networks of quality language schools. Located in the historic center of Rome, the school is within walking distance of the Coliseum, the Roman Forum, and the Fountain of Trevi. The school is open year round and offers programs at all levels: Intensive/extensive, group/individual, business, conversation, CILS exam Preparation, art, Italian opera, and cooking. They also have an interesting social program consisting of film shows, lunches with teachers, guided tours, as well as special prices for theaters, concerts, and sports-clubs.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci was founded in 1977 and has centers in Florence, Milan, Rome, and Siena. Their school in Rome, situated in the central pedestrian area, offers a wide range of programs from their popular Italian standard language course to Italian individual tuition and their Italian Diploma courses (AIL Exams). They also organize semester long programs and summer courses for American institutions. Courses run from two weeks to twelve months. The study abroad program enables American students to earn Italian language credits for Italian 101 and Italian 102.

Venice

Stretching across 117 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic Sea in northeast Italy lies the world’s most romantic city — Venice (Venezia), the capital of the Veneto region. Among Venice’s many nicknames are “Queen of the Adriatic,” “City of Water,” “City of Bridges,” and “The City of Light.” Venice is an intricate, maze-like city consisting of 150 canals conncted by 409 bridges, making it the ideal place to get lost for the day and explore the riches of this romantic and mysterious city. Learning Italian in Venice is an adventure in itself, but, like Florence, it becomes very crowded with tourists during the late spring and summer months so try to book your trip for the off-season.

Centro IL FARO is located in the town of Caorle, a charming seaport rich of culture, history, and traditions, just 30 miles from Venice. Its enchanting beaches and picturesque historic center with a variety of restaurants and gelaterie make it an exquisite location for an enjoyable vacation. Besides being relatively small and away from major tourist routes, Caorle gives students endless opportunities to interact with local people and experience authentic Italian culture.

The school offers language programs and culture classes for all levels; it also offers packages for groups and families, with special attention to children. Their methodology is to merge grammar study with the communicative approach, thus enhancing all four language skills — reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

WorldLink Education (WLE) is an international organization that offers quality language immersion programs around the world, including Italian Language programs in Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. WLE is dedicated to promoting international education and cross-cultural understanding, and offers a range of unique, comprehensive, and affordable programs. Courses vary in intensity and duration, and start throughout the year. The courses are designed to provide the most comprehensive and balanced curriculum, combining in-class instruction with cultural excursions and activities. The objective is to deepen knowledge of the language and culture. To cater for the individual needs of students, a range of intensive and non-intensive programs are available for all levels from beginner to advance. WLE’s programs are offered to adults of all ages. The Total Program includes tuition, accommodation, books, certificate, orientation, welcome information, placement test, visa support documentation (when required), and more. Extra features include arrival transfer, guided cultural tours and social activities at no additional cost. International program advisors and staff provide on-going assistance and information, before departure and during the program.

Capitalizing on China

Christine Tsai scours the districts of China’s capital for Mandarin immersion programs to suit all tastes

Beijing

Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China, is located in the northeast part of central China. It is not only the center of China’s politics, culture and economy, but also the site of dynasties in Chinese history. Also known as “Peking” which literally means, “northern capital,” Beijing is home to nearly 15 million people.
The city is divided into various districts, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions. The center of the city is surrounded by ring roads which become progressively larger as one moves further away from the city. One can estimate the distance of a residence or business from the city’s center by the ring and district that it is located in.
While Beijing is a rapidly growing city in terms of business and economy, making it a fierce competitor against other modern cities around the world, it is still able to maintain its ancient culture and history. The sites to visit are never-ending, from the Great Wall of China to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, Beijing is full of historical gems.
With the approach of the 2008 Olympic games, the face of Beijing is changing nearly everyday as the city prepares for guests from all over the world with renovations and new construction throughout the city. Visitors and students are also getting excited as the 2008 Olympic games in Beijing provide another great reason to learn the Mandarin language.

Chaoyang District

Located in the northeast section of Beijing, Chaoyang District is home to many foreign embassies. It is also the location of Sanlitun Bar Street where visitors can sample the nightlife of Beijing along with other foreigners and young locals.
AmeriSpan Beijing has locations throughout Beijing, including the Chaoyang District. Over the years, AmeriSpan has taught more than 28,000 people, learning 15 languages in over 75 cities worldwide. In Beijing, each campus teaches group classes daily for four hours. These programs are designed for total immersion. AmeriSpan encourages students to stay with a host family so that students have the opportunity to understand daily life for locals as well as to practice the language during provided meals.
Beijing Taipei Language Institute, with head offices in Taiwan, now has locations in China and Japan. The school also has a second location in Beijing in the Dongcheng District. While group courses can be arranged, the Beijing Taipei Language Institute specializes in offering one-on-one classes to provide students with a comfortable setting to speaking, listening, and writing Chinese. Because of the many foreign embassies in the surrounding area, Beijing Taipei Language Institute is the school of choice for many new diplomats.
The Chaoyang District is also home to Chinese Horizon, situated across from Beijing Worker’s Gymnasium, a multi-purpose stadium which serves as a venue for lots of sporting events. Chinese Horizon offers various Chinese language programs, including an immersion program for adults and children over six, where participants are provided housing with a local family. The school also offers an online Chinese course which allows the student to choose to study on their own or to have teacher support. Chinese Horizon’s Mandarin training is a unique blend of classroom teaching and interactive online self-learning.
With locations in Chaoyang and Shunyi, Chinese Language Education offers small group, private, online and custom corporate programs for Mandarin Chinese, Business Chinese, and Chinese Culture. Semester and year-long programs incorporate seminar series, real-life language tasks, trips and social events that are fun and also introduce important aspects of Chinese culture. The Flex Language program offers rolling start dates to accommodate the schedule of any language learner. The school provides assistance with accommodation, insurance, HSK preparation, and 24-hour student support.
The International College for Chinese Language Studies at the Communication University of China provides in-depth study of the Chinese language. Faculty members possess degrees in foreign Chinese, Chinese linguistics, literature or broadcasting and have been granted a Foreign Chinese Teaching Qualification Certificate by the National Office for Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language.
Chinese language courses provided are of varying levels made to accommodate any student. Optional courses include Chinese Pronunciation-Correction, Reading Chinese Poetry, Chinese Characters, Commercial Chinese, Journalism Chinese, and Chinese Idioms and Phrases. The school also provides courses in Chinese culture, folk-customs, and calligraphy. Furthermore, the school offers courses to help students prepare for the HSK, which is a national standard exam which tests the Chinese language proficiency of students’ whose native language is not Chinese. Usually students must take the HSK in order to qualify to pursue a Master or Doctorate degree in a Chinese university.
Easyou International Cultural Exchange Center, near the Chaoyangmen Subway Station, offers a variety of language programs. With locations in Beijing and Shanghai, this school offers private lessons and group lessons that last anywhere from two to 11 weeks. Each day, lessons are combined with group activities and excursions. For those who want to do a little more traveling than the general programs offer, students can arrange for group study tours where lessons are combined with traveling to different areas in China. The school also offers special courses in Chinese painting, Guqin (a traditional Chinese instrument) and Wushu, also known as Kungfu. The school will arrange accommodations for the student with a host family, in a shared studio or apartment, or in a hotel or hostel, depending on the student’s needs. Easyou International Cultural Exchange Center prides itself on its full-time support that they provide to students.
With locations in Beijing and Shanghai, Mandarin House is a member of the International Association of Language Centers (IALC) and accredited by the Ministry of Education and Research in Sweden. Mandarin House offers general Chinese programs in group settings, private settings, or a combination of both. Programs are available for adults and children as well as working professionals. Social activities let students discover Chinese culture in all its facets – from cooking classes to martial arts sessions and visiting old lanes to walking the Great Wall.

Haidian District

Sometimes referred to as the “University District,” the Haidian District is where most of Beijing’s universities are located so it is full of young college students and foreigners. Located northwest of Beijing’s city center, the Haidian District is not only known for its abundance of universities, but also for the Summer Palace, which is where Empress Dowager Cixi would spend her weekends and holidays to get away from the busy city. Named as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998, the Summer Palace offers historic architecture as well as beautiful breathtaking landscapes.
Beijing Language and Culture University is an accredited Chinese university that specializes in teaching Mandarin Chinese language and culture to foreign students. With more than 10,000 foreign students per year from more than 100 different countries, BLCU has carried an excellent reputation for providing effective and intensive language training to their students. Students have easy access to any learning materials that they might need since BLCU produces most of the texts and learning materials that are used.
The International Culture Exchange Center at the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications offers a variety of programs that would suit any language learner looking for more than just classes to enrich their studies. The Chinese study program consists of intensive Chinese language instruction, individual tutorials, optional culture classes and field excursions in and around Beijing. The school also offers an internship program where participants can intern with companies in Beijing, Shanghai or Xiamen to practice their Chinese and build their resumes. There is also a study-tour program available where students take a break in the middle of their studies, ranging from nine to 14 days, to visit various cities in China while learning more about Chinese culture.
LanguBridge Education Centre has Chinese programs based in both Beijing and Shanghai, which are hosted at university campuses. The Beijing centre is hosted at Beijing Jiaotong University in the Haidian District. LanguBridge offers summer immersion programs that are open to high school and university students. Each session, which lasts four weeks, combines lessons, tutoring and language exchanges. LanguBridge will offer a special Olympic session this year, where program themes will be developed around the games, to enable students to learn Chinese through watching the games and participating in Olympic-related events.
Sino Language Gateway, which partners with various universities in China, including Tsinghua University and Beijing Language & Culture University, offers a variety of programs, including Chinese Summer Camp, Advanced Chinese, youth volunteers and special Olympic programs. While most programs set the minimum age for study-abroad programs to be high school students, Sino Language Gateway also has programs for children under 10. Sino Language Gateway’s Chinese language study programs include opportunities for interaction with local teenagers, trips to some of the city’s most well-known attractions, well-equipped rooms in the universities and bilingual counselors that are always available.

Xicheng District

Located west of the Forbidden City, the Xicheng District is situated within the second Ring Road close to the city’s center. In the Xicheng District, there are a variety of interesting sites, such as the Beijing Zoo and Beihai Park. It is also home to the Houhai bar area, where lively cafes, restaurants and bars surround the scenic Houhai Lake.
While it has its head offices and most classrooms in the Xicheng District, the Hutong School, has also recently opened a new center in the Dashanzi art district within the Chaoyang District. The school offers two main programs, an internship program and an intensive Chinese program. The internship program consists of a placement at one of the school’s partner companies, two hours of Chinese language instruction per day, accommodation in an apartment in the center of the city, organization of weekly cultural activities and business lectures as well as practical assistance during the student’s stay in Beijing. The intensive Chinese language program offers the same as the internship program, but instead of a work placement, students receive four hours of instruction per day.
Wherever you choose to study in Beijing, you will be engulfed by the city’s energy and enthusiasm, and are sure to have an experience you will never forget.

Christine Tsai lives in New York and has studied in China.