Competence in
languages other
than English
is desperately
needed in the
United States.

– Joshua Fishman
Yeshiva and
Stanford Universities

Hispanics will
become the
largest monority
group in the
United states by
the year 2005.

– US Census projection

The most reliable
way for novices
to learn a foreign
language is to study
with a teacher.

– Edward Scebold
American Council
on the Teaching of
Foreign Languages

If you’d like to learn Spanish in a small congenial group where you are engaged in conversation from the first day, you’ve come to the right place.
 
     


y name is Patricio Tapia. I’m a native Chilean who’s been teaching in Marin for over fifteen years. During this time, I’ve developed a unique and highly effective conversation-based teaching approach that makes use of innovative visual aids to stimulate learning and promote lots of interaction.Grammar is learned primarily as a natural outcome of the focus on conversation. The relaxed atmosphere builds confidence, and small class sizes afford ample time for personal attention and feedback. Intermediate classes read entertaining detective stories at gradually increasing levels of difficulty, written especially for people learning Spanish as a second language. Advanced classes read works by classic and contemporary Spanish writers.

These classes are geared to adults with busy lives. Ten levels of classes are available on an ongoing, year-round basis, at various times and locations in Marin. See Class Schedules, Locations & Fees. The higher study levels, rarely found at other schools, provide continuity of learning as your mastery of the language grows. If you’ve studied Spanish before, you can find a class that picks up where you left off.

There are no expensive books to buy: all reading materials are included in the class fee! Tape recorders are recommended at Levels I, II, and III. You can call me at (415) 806-8101 or e-mail me at patricio_tapia@comcast.net if you have questions about your appropriate level.

 
“Patricio is an excellent teacher — patient and considerate of all levels of learning. He gave everyone a chance to speak, and made it fun.”