Snowflakes in Brazil
By Nathalie Palombini, São Paulo Brazil- Snowflake School is an English school dedicated to young learners 3 to 10 years old, located in São Paulo, Brazil. Its main commitment is to promote second language learning in an effective, fun and natural way. The school aims to enhance the complete development of children through an immersion in a meaningful, creative and value-based environment.
The methodology was inspired by educational theories from Canada and the US and has two main pillars. First, the process to learn a second language is through the development of multiple competencies, in creative and contextualized situations. These situations are divided into six activities; music, storytelling, arts & crafts, movement & games, lessons and reading. The second methodology pillar is the English only policy. The school was totally designed to offer young learners a full immersion in a different place, creating a sense for the use of English.
In the beginning of September 2009, Snowflake School contacted Academic Success for All Learners seeking to bring to Brazil its successful reading program used in American homes and schools. The material and methodology blended well with the school’s learning objectives. The decision was made to implement the Little Books program for all children. The school followed the program instructions and has implemented the Reading for All Learners Little Books in individual sessions.
After six weeks, a significant advance of the reading fluency in all students was noticed. The young learners are excited about their progress and look forward to moving from one book to the next. English comprehension has also improved due to the children's interest in the Little Books stories and the animal friend characters. Parents have provided positive feedback about the performance improvement of their children not only in reading English, but also in reading Portuguese. Children started enjoying reading and also became more self confident readers.
The Snowflake School is extremely satisfied with the results achieved so far and is excited to see how beneficial the method is in obtaining results. Snowflake School is also looking forward to continue the relationship with our friends at Academic Success for All Learners. - November, 2009.
Find out more about The Snowflake School on their website at www.snowflakeschool.com.br
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