AMES, Iowa -- Iowa State University Extension will offer "Spanish Immersion Weekends" this fall for those who would like to brush up on their Spanish skills or learn a new language.
The first "Spanish Immersion Weekend" will be held for beginners from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 in Ottumwa Hotel, 107 E. 2nd St., Ottumwa. This weekend was designed for those with no background in Spanish and covers simple conversational language in the present tense. Participants will learn colors and numbers, how to introduce people, pronunciation of Spanish letters, common phrases and small talk, health and parts of the body, culture, family, food and cooking actions.
The second "Spanish Immersion Weekend" will be taught at the intermediate level from Nov. 4 to 6 at the Ottumwa Hotel. This weekend is recommended for those who have studied Spanish in high school or taken conversational Spanish classes. Participants should be able to understand basic instructions and form simple sentences in the present tense. Instructors will review basic Spanish and grammar, including introductions, commands, numbers, colors, time, weather, dates and body parts. Participants will learn clothes, prices, family, food, directions, descriptions of people, simple future tense and the verb "gustar." Intermediate speakers also will visit a Mexican restaurant and order food.
"Spanish Immersion Weekends" consist of an orientation of Friday from 6 to 9 p.m., and language training on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Latin music and dance lessons will be offered on Saturday night.
These workshops offer those with an interest in Spanish the opportunity to advance their language skills in a fun, relaxed atmosphere with enthusiastic instructors. "Spanish Immersion Weekends" use games, music, activities and conversation to immerse participants in Spanish out of the typical classroom setting. Participants can expect to have a great time learning a lot about Spanish in a short time span. Instructors include Himar Hernandez, director of the New Iowan Center in Ottumwa; Corey Stevens, migrant and seasonal farm worker specialist for the New Iowan Center; and Lizmelia Ortiz, ISU Extension Latino family specialist.
A $229 registration fee due 10 days before the start of the sessions includes all instructional materials, two breakfasts, one dinner, snacks and socio-cultural activities. Full refunds will be given up to seven days before the "Spanish Immersion Weekends." Sessions are limited to 30 people. Overnight lodging is available at the Ottumwa Hotel at a special rate.
To register, send a $229 check payable to "Wapello County Extension" to 101 N. Court St., Ottumwa, IA, 52501. Include your name, address, phone number, e-mail address and the session you wish to attend - beginner or intermediate.
For more information, visit the "Spanish Immersion Weekends" Web site at www.fillingspace.com/immersion.html, or contact Glen Easter at (641) 342-3316 or Tom Quinn at (641) 682-5491.
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