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According to Busuu , Spanish is the fourth most spoken language in the world, behind English, Mandarin, and Hindi. In the United States, it’s the second most spoken. Already widely spoken, many non-native speakers continue to learn to speak in this wonderful language. One way people can work towards fluency is by becoming DELE certified, as it’s one of the best ways to formally identify individual proficiency in the Spanish language. As the only DELE examination center in the State of Arizona, the International School of Arizona knows the level of importance this certificate can have on an individual. Read below what the DELE test can mean for you. What is the DELE Test? The purpose of the DELE test is to formally demonstrate the ability to communicate in Spanish. Anybody who is a citizen of a non-Spanish speaking country can take the exam to formally identify their Spanish fluency. In addition, citizens who live in Spanish speaking countries can take the exam , but only if: Spanish is not the mother tongue of his/her parents Spanish is not the first language he/she learned Spanish is not his/her habitual language used for communicating He/she hasn’t studied the language in the total or part of their primary or secondary education Why Students Should Take the DELE Test As one of the most prestigious language certifications, obtaining it helps prove Spanish fluency. Furthermore, those who obtain the certificate can find value in the fact that it is internationally recognized across the Spanish-speaking world. It’s highly regarded in the business and commercial world, and as a result, it makes for an excellent addition to one’s resume. Moreover, the DELE certification is recognized among private and public schools. Much like people who are looking to work in Spanish-speaking countries, obtaining a certificate is beneficial for students looking to study abroad. How To Register for a DELE Test Candidates who wish to take the exam will need to do the following: Register for the exam directly on the Instituto Cervantes registration portal or at an examination center Make a payment to take the exam Make sure you have the necessary documentation to take the exam, including: Original photo ID A printed receipt The official exam summons you received from the exam center To receive more information on International School of Arizona’s DELE test, Contact Maria Mercedes Villamizar at mvillamizar@isaz.org for more information. International School of Arizona is the Only DELE Testing Center in the StateThe importance of a DELE certificate cannot be overemphasised. In today’s business world, speaking more than one language has created bigger opportunities for dual-language speakers in the workforce. Not to mention ,it allows us to easily connect with individuals who might not necessarily speak one’s native language. At the International School of Arizona, we work closely with each student to ensure they’re on the right track to speaking fluent in French, Spanish, and English with the goal of one day being proficient enough to obtain their DELE certificate. Contact us today to learn how we can help. #InternationalSchoolofArizona #Registration #SpanishLanguage #DELE #Testing

What is Language Immersion? Language immersion is a method used to teach students a second language where the language being taught is primarily used during teaching . This means that for the majority of the day, students are spending time learning, hearing, and speaking in a language other than their native tongue. What Languages are taught? The International School of Arizona has language immersion programs focusing in Spanish and French.  What Are the Types of Teaching Models? There are primarily two teaching methods when it comes to language immersion. There is a 90/10 model, where 90% of the time students are engaging in the target language, with 10% of the time speaking in English. The 50/50 model divides time equally between English and the target language. While both types of teaching methods develop bilingual and biliteracy skills in students, a 90/10 model is usually recommended for students who have primary access to English outside of the school. The 50/50 model is thus recommended for students where the second language is utilized outside of the classroom and within their home and community. This allows students to speak both languages in school and at home. What Are the Benefits of Language Immersion? There are many benefits for students who partake in language immersion programs, including mental flexibility, verbal expression, and they can recognize non-verbal communication much faster than monolinguals. Apart from higher academic performances, students who participate in language immersion programs also benefit from higher levels of social and emotional skills at earlier ages. Along with developing a better sense of multiculturalism and diversity. Will This Affect Their English Skills? It is important to understand that language immersion programs are developed to help students become bilingual and enjoy biliteracy. This does not mean that the second language is to replace English. Students can develop skills in a second language just like they did for their native tongue without any effects on the first language. In fact, the loss of instructional time in English has not shown any negative effects on their skills in the first language. What Curriculum is Followed in Language Immersion Programs? The International School of Arizona follows three curricula: 1. The French National Curriculum in accordance with its accreditation from the French Ministry of Education and its affiliation with the AEFE (Agence pour l’enseignement français à l’étranger = The Agency for French Education Abroad). 2. The Spanish National Curriculum in accordance with the accreditation from the Instituto Cervantes, on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education. 3. A United States Curriculum based on Arizona state standards. For Kindergarten through 3rd Grade, the Fundations Program is taught. What if My Child Does Not Respond Well to the Program? While it is understandable that your child might have a hard time adjusting to learning a second language, it is recommended to try to wait at least nine weeks and up to a semester to decide if the program is right for your child.  Starting school can be a difficult adjustment for many children, especially if they have not experienced academic settings previously. Therefore keeping a positive attitude and supporting your child is the most important thing to keep in mind as your child begins their language immersion journey. Can My Child Join Language Immersion After First Grade? Language immersion programs have different guidelines when it comes to accepting new students. Some programs will not accept new students after the first week of first grade and others will not accept English learners after second grade . This all depends on the programs bilingual and biliteracy goals the school has set forth, therefore it is best to check directly with the school to know the guidelines. How Can I Help if I Only Speak English? Even if you do not speak the target language your child is learning, there are still plenty of opportunities for you to help your child. Reading with them daily will help introduce them to new vocabulary as well as improve their reading skills and comprehension . All these skills will translate when learning a second language.  Additionally, a strong support system for your child will take them a long way in being successful academically.  Studies have shown that students whose parents have shown enthusiasm and positive attitudes towards school tend to do better in language immersion programs. Encourage the use of the second language outside of school with books, games, plays, television shows or movies, and sporting events, to further develop the language skills. How Does the Application Process Work? At the International School of Arizona we aim to make the application process as easy as possible. Submit a request for information or contact the admissions office to schedule a visit to campus or a meeting with faculty Submit an online application Arrange a “shadow day” where your child can experience a day in the life of our students and get a glimpse of how fun our language immersion programs are Learn With the International School of Arizona With a 22-year history, the International School of Arizona continues to adapt, evolve, and provide an inclusive cultural curriculum to all students. We offer French and Spanish language immersion programs that begin at 18 months and continue  through 8th grade. Made up of like-minded, multicultural parents, our community demands the highest academic standards and understands the importance of parent inclusivity. Contact us today for more information on our programs and give your child the gift of a second language. #DualLanguage #TeachingModels #Globallanguages #Languageimmersion #Benefitsofbeingbilingual

The benefits of language immersion programs have become an important part of education, especially considering the United States is a melting pot of diverse cultures, ethnicities, and languages that are a reflection of our rich history. Learning a foreign language has become key to a global mindset. Being bilingual can create unique opportunities and has its competitive advantages, especially when it comes to career advancement. That is why we’ve highlighted a few benefits of a language immersion program and obtaining private tuition assistance for families who are interested in providing their children the gift of a second language. The Benefits of Foreign Language Immersion Programs The benefits of children getting an early start in a language immersion program during the early stages of their development have proven to have incredible results in their literacy and overall cognitive skills. “There is research that children who learn or acquire two languages simultaneously, that their brains are stretched in the process and they are actually better equipped in other cognitive areas because of acquiring two languages,” says Johanna Watzinger-Tharp, Associate Dean for International and Interdisciplinary Programs at the University of Utah. There is a plethora of research to make a case for the benefits of immersion programs out there for parents to review and mull over. When the question for parents is no longer “Why” or “Where”, it becomes the cost. The cost may be insignificant for some families but for others, it can be a financial hardship. Scholarship and Financial Assistance Programs Help While studying a foreign language is invaluable, tuition for private schools offering language immersion programs can prove financially challenging for some families. Fortunately, there are scholarships and financial assistance that can help, like the Arizona Private School Tax Credit and various non-profit organizations such as the Arizona Tuition Connection , that supports the cost of private tuition. Parents who want their children to have the opportunity to benefit from innovative programs such as foreign language study for elementary school and secondary school students can apply. International School of Arizona The International School of Arizona supports all interested families in affording their unique language immersion program. It is the school’s goal to ensure private school tuition doesn’t prevent families from applying for their child to attend ISA. They help to navigate parents through the process of applying for assistance and all students may be eligible for one or more scholarships. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or get more information. #PrivateTuition #ForeignLanguage #FinancialAssistance #Languageprograms #Scholarships

When it comes to taking certification exams to validate your knowledge of the Spanish language, the Diploma of Spanish as a Foreign Language ( DELE ) and the International Spanish Language Evaluation Service ( SIELE ) are the two best options.  Both the DELE and SIELE can provide your student with valid accreditation. While both are backed by the Cervantes Institute, are Internationally recognized, and follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), there are still quite a few differences between both exams. So what are the main differences between the two, and which one is right for your student? Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) THE DELE are certificates issued by the Cervantes institute, on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture, and Sports, which started in 1989. Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española (SIELE) The SIELE certifies the proficiency of the Spanish language in individuals and  since 2016, has been backed and promoted by the Cervantes Institute, the National Autonomous University of Mexico , Universidad de Buenos Aires , and the University of Salamanca .  Key Differences Candidates DELE: Non-Native Speakers SIELE: Non-Native Speakers Native Speakers Validation DELE:  Never expires SIELE:  5 years Exam Levels DELE:  A1 – Breakthrough A2 – Waystage B1 – Threshold B2 – Vantage C1 – Effective Operational Proficiency C2 – Mastery *You do not have to take the exams in order, you can choose which exam you’d like to take based on your own level SIELE:  One single exam with contents ranging from the A1 – C1 levels Test Sections DELE: Reading Comprehension Listening Comprehension Written Expression Oral Expression SIELE: Reading Comprehension Listening Comprehension Written Expression Oral Expression *With the SIELE exams you can choose to only take certain sections of the exam. You do not have to take all four sections, only the sections you are proficient in or sections you’d like to improve in. This is offered for the SIELE only. Testing Format DELE:  Reading/Writing sections on paper Listening/Oral sections are interactive with a teacher SELE: All sections are done online through a computer using the testing sites software Testing Place DELE:  Can only be taken at locations accredited by the Cervantes Institute. There are currently more than 1,000 centers in over 100 countries across five continents *International School of Arizona is the only accredited location in the state of Arizona SIELE: Only at locations accredited by the Cervantes Institute. Currently there are over 700 locations worldwide Exam Dates DELE:  Can only be taken on official exam dates with only certain exam levels being offered at specific times of the year SIELE: These exams can be scheduled at any time of the year by creating an appointment at an accredited center Grading Criteria DELE: Pass or Fail  SIELE: Based on a scale of 0-1,000 points equivalent to CEFR levels Results Notification DELE: Usually two to three months SIELE: Usually two to three weeks Certifications Issued DELE: Electronic certificate and official diploma mailed to you SIELE: Electronic certificate  DELE Testing at International School of Arizona The International School of Arizona is the only DELE examination center in the State of Arizona. Gaining this credential to validate your student’s level of competency in the Spanish Language is important. Contact Maria Mercedes Villamizar at mvilaamizar@isaz.org to schedule your appointment or get more information. #ForeignLanguage #Certifications #Exams #SIELE #education #SpanishLanguage #DELE

Parent involvement in their child’s education can have a huge impact on their academic success. Children whose parents are involved in their school learnings tend to not only get better grades but also develop positive feelings towards learning and education in general.  Parents have a couple of ways to get involved in their child’s education. Not only can they help with homework assignments and improve their reading skills, but they can also volunteer for school events and activities, such as open houses, parent-teacher conferences, sporting events, and school plays.  Although, some parents are able to be more involved than others due to professional or other reasons, any level of involvement will be beneficial.  Key Benefits Academic Success – Not only will students benefit from immediate academic success, but it will also create a strong foundation for the rest of the student’s academic years . This can increase their chances for future opportunities. Diminish School Absences – Students with engaged parents have shown a 20% decrease in school absences . Furthermore, lower dropout rates have been reported in studies that show parental involvement. Improved Teacher Morale – Parents who are active in their child’s academics tend to have more positive feelings towards teachers . In turn, this makes teachers feel more appreciated and lifts their morale. Better Classroom Behavior – Students with high parent involvement also behave better inside the classroom. This is due to the fact that the parent’s positive attitude towards school translates to the child’s own attitude towards school and motivation . Parent Involvement Obstacles While all parents want their child to succeed in school, not all parents can be as involved in their child’s education as much as they’d like. Lack of time is the primary reason why lots of parents aren’t as involved. This time shortage can be due to the parent’s job responsibilities or having multiple kids in the family.  Other reasons include parents feeling unwelcome at school or feeling a lack of connection between them and the school staff. Therefore, it is imperative for teachers to work with and include parents as much as possible in order for the student to succeed.  Tips for Parents to Become More Involved Ask your children about their day at school Read books with your children to improve their reading skills Set up a schedule for them to study and stick to it Study and help them with homework when possible Attend school activities Volunteer in school activities Go to parent-teacher conferences Keep constant communication with the teacher if problems arise Encourage and support your child throughout their academic career, not just during their early years, but all the way through high school Get Involved with the International School of Arizona With a 22-year history, the International School of Arizona continues to adapt, evolve, and provide an inclusive cultural curriculum to all students. We offer French and Spanish language immersion programs that begin at 18 months and continue through 8th grade. Made up of like-minded, multicultural parents, our community demands the highest academic standards and understands the importance of parent involvement. Contact us today for more information on our programs and give your child the gift of a second language. #education #InternationalSchoolofArizona #languagelearning #parentinvolvement

With many new apps available, people may think that learning a foreign language is easy. However, with less than one-fifth of Americans actually knowing a second language it’s not as effortless as some believe. The key to learning a second language is a successful immersion program that is proven and accredited…and as a student, getting an early start on things helps. What is Accreditation? Attending a school or institution that is accredited by top-tier organizations assures parents and the community that the school is focused on raising student achievement while maintaining efficient and effective operational practices. Achieving accreditation is a voluntary process and certifies that schools and districts meet high standards and provide a quality learning environment that is set forth by expert evaluation teams. Attending an Accredited School Exceptional bilingual immersion institutions strive to make language learning fun for students. Instead of teaching introductory language around grammatical concepts, students are focused to learn a language the way it was intended, as a tool for communication. Early research indicates that teaching “content and language integrated learning” is effective in impressive language learning. On the SAT , students who study world languages for four or more years score almost 140 pts higher in math and critical reading. This helps to improve overall outcomes propelling students beyond graduation. According to other research, bilingual workers earn 5% to 20% more than those who speak only one language. So Why is it Important to Attend an Accredited School? Accreditation isn’t about passing a one-time inspection; it’s about meeting high-quality standards at all times with modern and fresh perspectives to give students the best educational opportunities. Organizations that assess and provide educational accreditations help to improve schools and systems across the globe to unify policies and generate educational momentum. Working with a trusted accreditation partner helps schools and districts assess goals and collect meaningful data to continually elevate and standardize educational curriculums. As parents, having your child attend an accredited school means they have: Qualified teachers who continually improve practice methods for increased student performance Access to a rich, diverse, and sound curriculum Access to a range of student activities and support services Transferability of credits from school to school Greater access to federal loans, scholarships, post-secondary education, and military programs that require accreditation Is My School Accredited? International School of Arizona is accredited by several recognized accreditation organizations for its programs. Cognia (previously AdvancED) U.S. Accreditation through Cognia Cognia is the world’s largest education improvement organization, representing 30,000 public and private schools and systems across the United States and in 75 countries worldwide. Today, NCA CASI, NWAC, SACS CASI, NSSE, and Cognia have all become part of Cognia. Through Cognia, these divisions share research-based accreditation standards that cross state, regional, national, and international boundaries. Accompanying these standards is a unified accreditation process designed to help educational institutions continuously improve. AEFE French Accreditation through the Ministry of Education Accreditation by the French Ministry of Education certifies that ISA complies with the demands, curricula, teaching objectives, and organizational policies of the French education system. ISA delivers the French National Curriculum in a language immersion environment, using the inquiry-based methodology at the core of the French Education philosophy. ISA is monitored by the AEFE (Association des Ecoles Françaises a I ‘Étranger) and is one of the 200 approved French schools in North America. Cervantes Spanish Accreditation through the Instituto Cervantes The Cervantes Institute was established by the Spanish government in 1991 as a worldwide non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of the Spanish language and culture. Institutions accredited by the Instituto Cervantes have conformed to the requirements related to academic programs, faculty qualifications, and administrative organization. In order to preserve this accreditation, ISA must submit to periodic evaluations demonstrating compliance with the numerous indicators. The denomination “Centro Acreditado” by the Instituto Cervantes can only be used by Centers endowed with the accreditation of the Instituto Cervantes. There are 37 centers accredited in the world, with only one accredited in the United States and that is our school. The ISA Difference The International School of Arizona has had a 22-year history in Arizona, and our evolving, adaptive, and the culturally inclusive curriculum follows the requirements of the French Ministry of Education and the Spanish Ministry of Education. As international educators, we aspire to be recognized worldwide as progressive leaders making a difference in the lives of our students. We teach academic excellence, promote global awareness, and inspire tomorrow’s leaders. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can offer your child the gift of a second language. #Accreditation #accredited #InternationalSchoolofArizona #languagelearning

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The ISA Robotics Team Competed in a Yearlong Vex IQ Challenge Next Level Competition The ISA’s Robotics Competition Team is participating in the VEX IQ Challenge Next Level throughout the school year. Our second competition was last Saturday at Fountain Hills High School. They placed 5th out of 26 teams. This is ISA’s first year competing in Robotics tournaments.