Electivo Sessions

¡Pura Vida! - Debbie Salazar

In español, ¡Pura Vida! means “pure life” or “simple life.” But the true meaning of ¡Pura Vida! goes much deeper than just two simple words. This national motto demonstrates the laid-back, happy-go-lucky attitude of the locals and their viewpoint of living life to the maximum. This phrase promotes optimism, an easy-going approach, positivity, and tranquility. It suggests living in the present and unwinding in a way that allows you to let go of trivial matters. Learn one phrase and use for almost every single context in a conversation.


Costa Rican Biodiversity - Debbie Salazar

Nestled in the middle of Central America, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Around half a million species are known to live there, which is equal to about 5% of the estimated species on Earth. Considering Costa Rica only makes up 0.03% of the world's landmass, this showcases the remarkable biodiversity of such a small country.


Spanish in the United States - Jacquie Hinds

Over 42 million people speak Spanish in the U.S. Did you know there is an Academy of the Spanish Language in the U.S.? In this course we will briefly explore the history of the Spanish language in our country. We will look at the various Hispanic countries and cultures represented in our country by region. We will focus on tips for working with Spanish-speakers from different countries.
There will be a particular focus on language and culture in Central Oregon.


Spain Today - Lora Looney
Under Construction


Spanish Civil War in Film - Lora Looney
Under Construction


The World of Alpaca - Angela Quepuy Arana

Discover the fascinating world of alpacas! We will delve into the unique and distinctive characteristics of their soft and luxurious wool, while exploring their natural habitat in the majestic landscapes of Peru. We will explore in detail how these Andean creatures have been fundamental for Peruvian communities throughout history, not only because of their soft fur, but also due to their adaptability to the demanding Andean environment.


La Llorona I: The Tale that Captivates - Michele Whaley

In the first of four sessions, we'll delve into the key plot points of the legend of La Llorona, the Weeping Woman. You won't yet discover why this story is passed down from generation to generation in Latin America, but that revelation will come later in the series. Who knows, by the end, you might be the one scaring kids with this story!  While this series is designed for complete beginners, everyone is welcome. We'll listen to, act out, and read the legend. Students can attend any or all sessions.


La Llorona II: The Suspense Deepens - Michele Whaley

In the second session, we'll learn more about the unfortunate children whose lives are entwined with the legend of La Llorona. Join us to explore the story and add to the suspense and drama. While this series is designed for complete beginners, everyone is welcome. We'll listen to, act out, and read the legend. Students can attend any or all sessions.


La Llorona III: Unveiling the Truth - Michele Whaley

Why did he leave her? Who remains to tell the tale? In the third session, we'll start unraveling the events that led to the legend of La Llorona. While this series is designed for complete beginners, everyone is welcome. We'll listen to, act out, and read the legend. Students can attend any or all sessions.


La Llorona IV: The Revelation - Michele Whaley

In this final dramatic reading, you'll discover all the chilling details of La Llorona! Learn why this tale both terrifies and protects children who hear it. 

Juegos cooperativos: descansar y jugar - Michele Whaley

Have you thrown babies around recently? C’mon, I mean stuffed animal babies! Have you tried to trick your neighbor into saying the wrong number? Or figured out who just changed the rhythm or movement in the group? If not, this session is for you. We’ll play low-stress, cooperative games that get people laughing, moving, and interacting, without pressure or performance. It’s a chance to relax, connect with others, and experience Spanish in a playful, supportive way.


Canciones infantiles: comunidad y lengua - Michele Whaley

Songs create community—and they are powerful tools for language growth. In this session, we’ll explore a variety of children’s songs that are simple, meaningful, and surprisingly rich. You’re welcome to sing, move, or simply listen. Even just “hanging out” with the words and music helps build connections to people, to culture, and to language patterns that stick with you long after the session ends.


Gastro Tour: Costa Rica - Deborah Salazar

Learn how Costa Rican gastronomy has been formed through its different cultural influences and unravel traditional recipes to transport you to the regional flavors of this extraordinary country.


Gastro Tour: Chile - Monica Gallup

Learn how Chilean gastronomy has been formed through its different cultural influences and unravel traditional recipes to transport you to the regional flavors of this extraordinary country.


Gastro Tour: Peru - Angela Quepuy Arana

Learn how Peruvian gastronomy has been formed through its different cultural influences and unravel traditional recipes to transport you to the regional flavors of this extraordinary country.


Costa Rican Coffee: The Golden Grain - Debbie Salazar
Under Construction


Selena: Para Siempre - Laurie Clarcq

Catch a glimpse into the life and music of Selena Quintanilla Perez. Selena has touched the lives of millions and continues to do so!  Come and learn about this lovely young woman and her legacy.


Desde El Fondo De Mi Corazón - Laurie Clarcq

Songs speak to the heart, mind and soul. The class will explore popular songs in Spanish that tell stories and teach expressions that will never be forgotten.


Who is Bad Bunny? - Laurie Clarcq

Practice your Spanish speaking skills, while learning about the music and history of Puerto Rico, all through the Imagery, dance and music of Grammy winner Bad Bunny!

Spain’s Literary Golden Age: What is the Picaresque novel? - Rachel Kirk 

Explore 16th century Spanish culture and literature through an overview of Lazarillo de Tormes and its plot. This novel is funny, interesting, and informative, with fantastic insight about Spain in the 16th century. 


Spain’s Literary Golden Age: Who was Don Juan? - Rachel Kirk

From Don Juan Tenorio in Tirso de Molina's play The Barber of Seville, and beyond. We still hear people refer to others as "Don Juan" but most students don't know where he originated. Learn all about this literary character. 


Spain’s Literary Golden Age: Don Quixote - Rachel Kirk

Practice your Spanish while learning about the adventures of Don Quixote, who, with his squire, Sancho Panza, tried to restore chivalry.


Spanish Playwrights - Lora Looney
Under Construction

Travel: Parques Nacionales de Costa Rica - Debbie Salazar

The Costa Rica National Parks & Reserves consist of lush primary virgin rainforests and a complex system of freshwater and marine resources. Costa Rica has 28 national parks in total, 3 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Costar Rica it is a very small country. It fits into Oregon five times!!! Costa Rica has a land area of nearly 19,760 sq mi (51,180 km2). Roughly 28% of this territory is a park or reserve. The territory of Oregon is 98,381 sq mi (254,806 km2). Can you believe living in the most biologically intense place on earth?


Travel: Adventure Tourism - David Kargol 

Tired of relaxing on vacation? Join us as we explore ten of the most adrenaline-inducing destinations in the Spanish-speaking world. From snorkeling in Mexico's underwater caves to biking Bolivia's infamous "death road," these extreme itineraries will leave you anything but bored. 


Travel: Year in Chile - David Kargol

Explore the expansive Andean nation of Chile through the lens of a year spent living and teaching in the capitol city of Santiago. Follow my route through this mountainous land, ranging from the northern deserts of Atacama to the glaciers of Patagonia. 
 

Travel: Patagonia - Monica Gallup

This workshop aims to immerse participants in the natural beauty, culture, history, and unique features of Chilean Patagonia. The session will explore the region’s biodiversity, indigenous cultures, and practical aspects of exploring the area. You will participate in group discussions, and cultural activities like learning how to dance the traditional Chilean cueca. 


Travel: Lima - City of Kings - Angela Quepuy Arana

Founded in 1535 as "The City of Kings," Lima combines an impressive colonial legacy with the vibrant life of a modern city. From its historic center, a World Heritage Site, to its world-class gastronomy and contemporary districts, Lima is a fascinating encounter between history and modernity.  

Fluency Strategies - Janet Gesme

Become fluent in Spanish. This class will fill your toolbox with fluency strategies and teach you how to be confident speaking Spanish. Come and collect ideas to keep you going strong in Spanish all year long. 

The Art of Interpreting - Janet Gesme

I’ll let you in on a secret: anyone who learns a second language is volunteering to be an interpreter, whether they know it or not! Even basic language skills are a great asset, and any of us may be called on to interpret if there is no one else available. In “The Art of Interpreting” you will gain confidence, strategies, and a better understanding of how you can connect people through language. Whether you are planning a career in interpreting or not, this class will help you be more comfortable sharing your language skills with others. 


Leer para crecer en español inicial - Michele Whaley

Research shows that we gain much of our vocabulary, grammatical accuracy, and overall language feel through reading, but only when we understand most of what we read. Constantly stopping to look up words breaks the flow that helps language settle naturally into our brains. In this session, we’ll explore accessible, compelling CI novels from special collections and take time to read, reflect, and talk about them together. You may be surprised by how enjoyable and effective reading in Spanish can be.


Leer las noticias: enfocándonos en lo positivo - Michele Whaley

Many language learners dream of reading the news in their new language, but getting there can feel overwhelming. This session offers a gentler path. We’ll work with short, positive news stories presented in ways that build confidence, vocabulary, and familiarity with how real-world texts work. The goal is to help you develop the experience you need to eventually approach local newspapers with curiosity instead of trepidation.


Pronunciation - Jacquie Hinds

Using songs, tongue twisters, and common phrases, participants will learn, and practice the correct way to pronounce vowels and consonants in Spanish. We will then delve into the perplexing world of syllabication and accentuation.


Memorization Techniques - Jacquie Hinds

Learn mnemonic devices and other tricks to memorize vocabulary. Bring your grammar manual so you can put your newfound skills to work.