Two or Four Week Spanish Immersion and Homestay
Modern Spanish Studies in the Arts, Language & Literature, Culture & Society
For nearly a decade, Abbey Road’s summer Spanish immersion programs have left high school students from all over the world with an authentic and lasting impression of the Spanish language, culture and society. The ideal program location sets the stage for a rewarding summer:
Located along the Costa de la Luz, on the Atlantic Coast of Andalusia, Cádiz remains the oldest inhabited city in Western Europe. This charming city is characterized by its narrow streets, colorful homes, lively squares and friendly inhabitants. Popular with young people and families from all over Spain, Andalusia is widely known for its unique cultural and historical legacy, as well as for some of the best beaches in Europe. Full of native vacationers, instead of foreign tourists, the city affords our students an untainted view into the southern Spanish language and culture.
Cádiz is the perfect summer study-abroad location for high school students looking to gain all the benefits of a Spanish language immersion program, while enjoying the beauty of the Spanish coast. Ultimately, this unique two or four week Spanish homestay program is designed for students seeking intensive Spanish immersion, with the option of participating in a wide range of elective classes, specialty workshops and weekend excursions.
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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
All students are enrolled in the daily Spanish language course as their program major. The experiential nature of the course allows students to practice their Spanish in real settings, making the learning process both practical and fun. Students select one of the following courses to serve as their tri weekly elective.
Spanish Conversation and Culture
Strengthen your communication skills and increase your vocabulary with this conversational Spanish language course. On-site discussions are geared toward the practical improvement of pronunciation, syntax, and oral comprehension, while fostering a deeper understanding of contemporary Spanish culture and civilization.
Community Service
This course examines the effect of volunteerism and community service on southern Spanish culture. Students participate in weekly community service projects led by Abbey Road instructors. They are expected to engage with locals and encourage community awareness about the project.
Introduction to Spanish Culture, Ideas and Values
Examine the culture and lifestyle of the Spanish people, as it compares with other Western nations. Discussions place emphasis on the historical, intellectual, artistic and social development of contemporary Spain, with close attention paid to the province of Andalusia.
Survey of Spanish Literature
Considered an introduction to major works in Spanish literature of the 19th and 20th centuries, this course helps prepare students for AP Spanish coursework. Minimum 3 years high school level Spanish required.
Introduction to Flamenco Dance, Music and Culture
This elective course serves as an introduction to el baile flamenco, both as an art form and as one of Spain’s most celebrated cultural legacies. Classes include historical seminars and studio work.
Digital Photography
Learn the basic principles and applications of digital photography as an artistic medium. Classes emphasize visual concepts, as well as basic image capture and camera functions. Important topics covered include the manipulation of camera settings, controls, lighting, and exposure. No knowledge of Spanish required.
OPTIONAL WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS
In addition to their weekly major and elective courses, students have the option of participating in cultural workshops and seminars. Enrollment is optional, and space is available on a first-come, first served basis. Summer workshop and seminar topics include:
• La Caleta Beach Community Service Project
• Introduction to Spanish Film
• Spanish Tapas Tasting
• Water Sports
• Art History and Architecture of Southern Spain
• Introduction to Salsa Dancing
• Flamenco Guitar
HOUSING
A good homestay experience is the foundation for a successful Spanish immersion program. We make every effort to match our students with the right homestay, taking into consideration their preferences and needs, in order to help them adjust as quickly and comfortably as possible. Homestays are typically located in quiet residential neighborhoods that are a short walk from our classrooms. Students spend 4 nights a week with their hosts and have most of their meals at home.
DAILY SCHEDULE
We begin each weekday with the Spanish Language course. After their morning classes students have a midday recess to enjoy lunch and the town of Cádiz. During the afternoons, you will attend either your elective course or have the option of participating in a variety of workshops, seminars and activities. Evenings not spent with your homestays provide additional options for cultural, athletic and social activities, as well as group meals and free time.
DAY TRIPS
Weekend day trips expose students to some of Southern Spain’s most celebrated towns and cities. Excursions include the town of El Puerto de Santa María, famous as the departure point of Christopher Columbus’s second expedition; a visit to Jerez, for its annual equestrian spectacle, and beach excursions to Conil.
OPTIONAL TRAVEL EXTENSION: Seville and Córdoba
Seville is one of the most popular and exciting cities in Spain! Students in the 4 week program can choose to spend 4 nights in this former capital of the Moorish kingdom, famous for its century-old flamenco tradition and thriving artistic culture. Students visit the world famous Alcázar, tour the Guadalquivir River, climb to the top of the Giralda tower and explore lively plazas and diverse neighborhoods.
Students will also take a special overnight trip to the city of Córdoba. At times a capital of both Roman and Eastern rule, the city of Córdoba has one of the world’s most extensive and fascinating cultural heritages.
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