Learning Spanish

What an exciting year it has been for me at JCN!  For those of you that have not had the chance to meet me yet, my name is Toni Larson, the new high school Spanish teacher.  My position is rather unique in that I am shared between JCN and Valley Falls.  Getting to know students, staff, and parents at both school systems has been quite a challenge, but well worth it.  I have taught Spanish for 21 years, but still learn something new each day.  Starting over in a new district (or two) has opened my eyes to new methods to try.  I think this year has been a learning experience for me as well as the kids.  They have helped me out a lot this year.

My Spanish classes are set up so that all levels, Spanish 1 through Spanish 3, are taught at the same time.  This arrangement can be difficult at times, but it also promotes self-motivation and peer tutoring with the upper-level students.  The classes have had many units of vocabulary, grammar, and a large geography/culture unit.   The unit worked on map skills and communications, with an oral presentation finishing up the unit.  Many activities are good for all the levels to participate in.  Other activities are set up so that the upper level students use their language skills to help the others.  I appreciate their help, and enjoy seeing their growth.  I am looking forward to the rest of the school year.