Puerto Rico Summer Programs Catalog

TASIS Spanish Summer Program
Marine Life &
Environmental Studies
Dorado, Puerto Rico
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INTRODUCTION
With 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.
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Front cover: Aerial view of Dorado Beach
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Campus
Located 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 Program
The 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 Offerings
All 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
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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 Environment
A 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.
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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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Sports
The 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, Italiantrained coaches.
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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 Students
Teachers 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.
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Community Life
Students 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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History
In 1956 Mrs. M. Crist Fleming, the visionary international educator,
founded TASIS, The American School in Switzerland, to provide highquality 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 notfor-profit educational foundation based in Delémont, Switzerland.
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Admissions
Only 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 England
Coldharbour Lane, Thorpe, Surrey, England TW20 8TE
email: uksummer@tasisengland.org • Tel: + 44 1932 582346
Program Campus:
TASIS Dorado
11 Carr 693, Sabanera, Dorado, Puerto Rico 00646 • Tel: +1 787 796 0440
Other TASIS Summer Programs
Switzerland
The 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 closeknit, 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).
England
France
The TASIS FRENCH LANGUAGE PROGRAM (ages 14–17) is
a 4-week course located in Château d’Oex, an idyllic Frenchspeaking 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 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.
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.
Intensive English Language Courses are offered at beginning,
intermediate, and advanced levels. All English Language courses
are accredited by the British Council.
LES 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 Aixen-Provence.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Back cover: Historic Old San Juan with El Morro Castle in the foreground
TASIS Dorado Spanish Summer Program
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www.tasissummer.org