¡Bienvendos (Welcome)! to Llaves2, an active learning program for Spanish. The word llaves in Spanish means “keys.” This program is based on the philosophy that, by proceeding through the program step-by-step, you will be presented with the keys to becoming a life-long learner of Spanish. The components of each chapter will provide keys to get started and open doors to discover the Spanish language and cultures of the communities in which it is spoken.

The overall learning objectives of the Llaves program align with the national World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages guided by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). These are to help you Communicate in Spanish, gain knowledge and understanding of Spanish-speaking Cultures, Connect with other disciplines (like your own major, and others) and acquire information in Spanish. Llaves will help you Compare what you are learning with things you are already familiar with, and, also develop insight into the nature of the Spanish language and its cultures. Finally, Llaves will help you actively participate in Spanish-speaking Communities locally and around the world.

When most people take a Spanish class, their only objective seems to be “I want to learn to speak Spanish,” and that is the goal for the Llaves program as well, BUT, learning Spanish is SO much more than just communicating verbally and understanding with your ears. As you can see with the learning objectives, there are five areas of emphasis upon which we will focus our efforts. This means we want you to succeed and be a well-rounded member of the Spanish speaking community both wherever you live currently and around the world.

Throughout the Llaves program, there will be specific images of actual llaves, like those you see at the top of the page, placed with each activity and task you will complete. The aim of these keys is to help you focus on these skills and objectives as you work and practice both on your own, and with your learning partners. Another major component of this program is the opportunity you have to build your own learning portfolio to show how you have applied what you have been learning in your own areas of interest. Take advantage of this opportunity to try something different and really apply the language in your personal life, instead of simply preparing to take tests.

Trust the program, its activities, assignments, and directions to participate using current technology and apps to build your confidence with the language. It has been developed by Dr. Jeff Longwell, who has won several awards for teaching excellence over a lifetime of teaching experience. Remember, Llaves is meant to simplify the language learning process and adapt to your learning style and strengths. Enjoy learning!