The Casa Xelajú Spanish immersion program is language learning based on a top down methodology, also known as Whole Language. This methodology immerses the student in the second language without the heavy use of memorization of grammar rules. In other words, whole language methodology is a replica of how we learn our first language from our parents, relatives, and friends when we are children. It has been demonstrated through extensive research that students who learn a second language using this methodology tend to retain their new knowledge longer because it stimulates the long-term memory processes.

To maintain the highest quality of teaching, Casa Xelajú has chosen to modify and successfully incorporate the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) standards into our teaching curriculum (these standards are currently used by thousands of universities and school districts worldwide). These standards are a tool that benefits our current and future students because we know with more precision the language level and experience the student is bringing with him/her. Therefore, there is no time wasted and no confusion the first week trying to measure the student's Spanish level.

Our language learning format is one on one instruction, and our Spanish and Quiche (K'iche') teachers have been extensively trained to give the students a more active role in their learning process (student centered instruction). As a result of this, our students are not passive but actively involved in their language learning experience, which enhances their ability to learn quickly in class.

With 19 years of solid experience teaching Spanish with the highest academic standards and over 14,000 satisfied students from all over the world, our Spanish language school is confident that your immersion experience with us will be a total success. In addition to our general Spanish classes, we also offer Spanish test preparation, specialized and advanced Spanish, and Latin American literature courses to all interested students.

Casa Xelaju recommends bringing any textbook you feel comfortable with.

For drills and homework, you may want to purchase The Ultimate Spanish Review and Practice by Ronni L. Gordon and David M. Stillman (Passport Books), a Spanish and English dictionary, and 501 Spanish Verbs by Christopher Kendris, (Barron's Educational Series, Inc.).