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TASIS Spanish Summer Program

Marine Life & Environmental Studies

Dorado, Puerto Rico

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INTRODUCTIONWith 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.

Front cover: Aerial view of Dorado Beach

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CampusLocated 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.

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Academic ProgramThe 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 OfferingsAll 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.

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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

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.

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Ambassadors of the EnvironmentA 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.

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

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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.

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SportsThe 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, Italian-

trained coaches.

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.

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Faculty and StudentsTeachers 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.

Community LifeStudents 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.

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SwitzerlandThe 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 close-knit, 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).

The TASIS FRENCH LANGUAGE PROGRAM (ages 14–17) is a 4-week course located in Château d’Oex, an idyllic French-speaking 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 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.

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.

History In 1956 Mrs. M. Crist Fleming, the visionary international educator,

founded TASIS, The American School in Switzerland, to provide high-

quality 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 not-for-profit educational foundation based in Delémont, Switzerland.

Other TASIS Summer Programs

FranceLES 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 Aix-en-Provence.

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.

EnglandThe 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.

Intensive English Language Courses are offered at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. All English Language courses are accredited by the British Council.

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.

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 uksummer@tasisengland.org.

AdmissionsOnly 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 EnglandColdharbour Lane, Thorpe, Surrey, England TW20 8TEemail: uksummer@tasisengland.org • Tel: + 44 1932 582346

Program Campus: TASIS Dorado 11 Carr 693, Sabanera, Dorado, Puerto Rico 00646 • Tel: +1 787 796 0440

Back cover: Historic Old San Juan with El Morro Castle in the foreground

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TASIS Dorado Spanish Summer Program

www.tasissummer.org