Elements of Survival Spanish for the Workplace

Work-Specific Language:  Unlike traditional Spanish Classes that attempt to teach the whole language over an unspecific time period, Command Spanish® classes utilize techniques that teach specific occupational language in a limited time period. For example, police officers learn how to apprehend, and control situations in Spanish, not to order tacos in a restaurant.

Non-Grammar Based Materials:  In order to facilitate and accelerate language learning, CS materials NEVER refer to grammar. It is the position of Command Spanish®, Inc. that the study of Spanish grammar in beginning classes only serves to restrict and/or impede learning.

Phonetic Encoding:  Because Command Spanish® provides survival Spanish for beginners, we utilize a highly effective phonetic system to allow immediate control of Spanish pronunciation. Clients do not have to learn complicated sound system rules!

Generic Spanish:  Command Spanish® materials are translated by a team of highly educated native speakers who are multi-national. The team includes Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Cubans, Colombians, and Hondurans. Before a training manual is sent to press, all Spanish in that manual must be approved by all translators, assuring that all the Spanish will be understood by all Spanish-speakers from any Spanish-speaking country.

One-Way Communication:  Command Spanish® materials use one-way communication techniques. Students learn how to say things in Spanish, but not to receive or understand complicated incoming messages, which requires years of intensive study. Instead of spending years studying Spanish for two-way communication, participants engage fully in their work after only a small amount of instruction. By using direct commands and simple statements, students can relay directions and information.

Control Questions:  In addition to learning commands and statements for one-way communication, participants also learn two types of control questions which are designed to control potential responses and render them comprehensible. The first type of control question requires a “yes” or “no” response. For example: “Are you a U.S. citizen?” The second type of control question is called a “screen question.” It is constructed to screen out all language other than a plausible response. For example: “What is your name?” The only plausible response would include a name or names.

Zero-Stress Classrooms:  Command Spanish® instructors are trained to promote stress-free language learning to optimize the student’s progress. Clients learn better and faster without pressure.

Maintenance CDs:  Command Spanish® language materials come with a complete set of audio CDs. These CDs provide ongoing and long-term maintenance of material learned in the workshop. The CDs also allow for quick and easy reference. All Command Spanish® maintenance CDs are unconditionally guaranteed.

Instructional Modes:  Command Spanish® instruction targets the senses. It is an enriched mixture of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning that engages and integrates all of the student’s learning channels. Instructional modes include: modeling, intensive drill, choral response, alpha-beta line, learning pairs and triads, total physical response, role-playing, simulations, and situation cards.

Qualified Instructors:  All Command Spanish® classes are taught by instructors who have either been trained by CS or selected by college administrators who are approved by Command Spanish®.

Send an email to lifelonginfo@twu.edu for questions or comments about this program. Or, contact Texas Woman's University, Office of Lifelong Learning at 940.898.3408.