FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Parent Information for Mrs. E. Spraker's Spanish class at Fonda-Fultonville Central School District.

If possible, you may want to save this file and print it out home.

• My child says they have no homework in Spanish class. Is that true?

No! Students almost always have written assignments due for every class.  On the rare occasions when there is no written assignment, they still need to study!   It may mean memorizing the vocabulary and grammar for the week, or preparing an oral dialogue, but there is always work to be done.
 

• How can I check on my child's homework assignments?

In my Spanish class, students are required to copy down their assignments on a their school agenda.   Ask to see it!  If have very few or no assignments written down, it is a good guess they aren't doing them.
If your child says they have finished the work, ask to see it.  Does it look neat and complete?  Does it correspond with the assignment they have copied down on their homework record sheet?
Also:  students receive points every five weeks just for having their assignment record complete so there is no reason not to have it completed:  don't take any excuses!

• What is the homework procedure in your class?

Homework is due at the beginning of the class period.  I make a quick visual inspection and give full credit to those who have their assignment reasonably well prepared.  We then review the homework together in class so that students can correct any mistakes they have made.

• How can my child make-up the homework they have missed?

Because we usually review homework immediately, late homework is not accepted.  Students are allowed to make up homework only if they have an excused absence.  Other late credit can be given only when we haven't already reviewed all the answers in class, which we generally do!

• How can I help my child when I know very little or no Spanish?

You can help just by insisting on checking their homework.  that will help get them on track.  Also, almost all of the work they are responsible for is explained in English in their textbook.   Ask them to show you what lesson they are on in the book (if they don't know, that can give you an idea of the attention they are paying in class.)  In the beginning of our textbook (Paso a Paso) there a Numbered that correspond with the lesson in the main text. (Tabla de materias "Capitulo 1, Capitulo 8 etc."  There you will find detailed explanations in English that you can review together if your child needs help.  
Learning another language takes time, so it is natural for students to say they find Spanish "confusing."  But part of what they need to do is simple memorization of vocabulary and grammar.  That also takes time.
I recommend that students make flash cards of all the vocabulary words we are studying.  That way you or another family member or friend can quiz them at any time to check their progress even if you don't know Spanish, the other side of the card will have the answer!

• How can I make sure my child knows what to do be successful in your class? 

Every student has read and signed a copy of the class guidelines, which are kept in their portfolio at school.  In addition, they have read and signed a Winners Contract which outlines many of the things they need to be successful in our class.   Follow that link to read it, or print it out at home and have your child read it with you!

• How can I keep informed on my child's progress in this class?

Grades in classes are mailed every six weeks.  I also print detailed grades just for Spanish class that will indicate test scores, homework average, participation, etc.  If you don't receive a print-out every six weeks, ask your child why!  Those grades are sent home, and point are given when they are returned with your signature.

• Is there any good software to help learn Spanish?

There are a number of programs available, and they can all enhance language learning.  However, buying a CD-ROM can only help if the student spend time using it!

• Why does my child have to take Spanish, anyway?

The State Education Department requires that students have at least two years of a foreign language.

• How can I get in touch with you?

You may call the school at 853-4747, and they will leave your message in my mailbox.  If you like, you can contact me now via our mail form (easy).  I look forward to hearing from you! 
 

 
Designed by E. Spraker
2004-2007