Immersion Language Programs in South America:
You could pay about $300 US or more for a language program on tape or CD and learn to speak Spanish and/or Portuguese. You could listen and practice in the privacy of your own home, at any hour that suits you, or you could go to school.
There are many language programs teaching these two languages in countries throughout the world. You can go to class, hire a tutor, practice your new skills by watching movies and TV programs in that language. You may even practice with speaking.
Or, you could enroll in an immersion language program in a Spanish speaking country to learn Spanish, or in Brazil to learn Brazilian, which is as different from Portuguese spoken in Portugal as the many variants of Spanish are to the Spanish spoken in Spain. You can even learn to speak Quechua!
There are numerous immersion language programs, all of which offer varying courses for young and older adults, beginners to advanced students. You can choose between individual or group classes of four to six hours a day, or an intensive course with many more hours per day/week. Some schools offer customized class sessions to fit your individual needs. You'll learn reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. You'll have many opportunities to practice your conversational skills with fellow students from many countries. All stress learning the language in its usual environment, including, no doubt, a good dose of street slang. Some programs last a few weeks to a month, others are in depth year-long programs, or exchange student programs.
Some of the features they share in common are:
- intensive language lessons, including practical vocabulary, grammar and sentence structure, and conversation with other students and local residents
- cultural programs, such as dance lessons, excursions, visits to attractions and evenings out
- travel within the country
- living arrangements or help in arranging accommodations
- transfers to and from the nearest airport
- certificates of completion; some offer credit through a university in the US or the UK. In Brazil, you may qualify for the Celpe-bras, an official diploma for Portuguese Language studies for foreigners, from the Brazilian Ministry of Education and Culture
- most students are unaccompanied teens and adults, but some schools offer family programs
- history of the country
- volunteer service projects where you use your new skills
- living with a host family, called a homestay, or in a student residence; some meals are included
- help in arranging travel arrangements
- Internet access
- customized "a la carte" study program
- after hours socialization with teachers and staff
- health and accident insurance programs
- network of schools: start in one country of city, continue in another
- recommendations from previous students
- staff qualifications
- accreditation
- course programs
- cultural activities
- length of program
- price, of course
Prices vary by country and city, and exclude your travel costs. They generally include your course material, transfer from airport/bus terminal to your accommodations and informational material about the country. Excursions are separate, as is all in-country travel.
If you've attended a language program, or plan to do so, tell us about it on the forum on Language programs
Saludos!
