Language Instruction

The PLFM methodology is TOTAL IMMERSION, in which students and teachers work one -on-one, and students begin at their individual levels of competency. The aim of Total immersion is to enable students to speak Spanish from the first minute. New students are given a brief oral evaluation by their teachers to determine language strengths and weaknesses. The program is individualized and flexible. Some students study for as little as one week. Students can choose areas to emphasize, such as conversation, comprehension, writing, etc. Courses use mini-dialogues for learning grammar, vocabulary, and Spanish languages “survival skills”, and beginners focus on language skills for daily life.

Classes respect a student’s individual goals, and assignments might include reading the local paper, listening to the news, or discussing politics, local entertainment or current events.

Using the same immersion methodology, PLFM also offers Mayan Language classes such as Kaqchikel, K´iche, Q´eqchi and other Mayan languages, by special arrangements. Please contact our office to details about learning Guatemalan indigenous languages at PLFM

Teachers: In PLFM, all teachers are native Spanish speakers. Specialized in teaching Spanish as a second language by the School of Language Sciences at the University of San Carlos de Guatemala, whose training is updated every 6 months. . Mayan language teachers are experienced in the PLFM method. Typically, students change instructor each week, but you may request the same teacher for an additional week.

Resources: Students receive a workbook at no charge for use during language study. We ask students not to write in the workbooks and to return them at the last class. Current PLFM texts are Amsco I, II, III, and Immersión Total en Guatemala, . The PLFM library lends books and magazines at no charge during the course of study.

PLFM also provides cultural programs in addition to its language classes. Offerings may include lectures by visiting scholars, video or slide presentations about Guatemalan and Mayan culture, book discussions, walking tours, or demonstrations of local crafts. Excursions are also available to museums, archaeological sites, Mayan villages and markets, and local festivals.

Schedule:Courses begin every Monday. Classes are held Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. The daily seven-hour full-time schedule includes half-hour breaks in the morning and afternoon. Students may study on a half-time schedule at adjusted rates: Monday through Friday mornings (8:00 to noon) OR afternoons (2:00 to 5:00), each with a half-hour break.