Adult Classes
Q: How do I register?
A: To register, call Tricia Idrobo at 973-994-7018 or e-mail her at pfressidrobo [at] hotmail.com . You can also send in this contact form:
Make sure to take advantage of the Early Bird Discount ($20 off) by registering by the date given on the Adult Classes page.
Q: How may I pay?
A: Personal checks, Venmo, and cash (in person only) are acceptable. We do not accept credit cards. There is a $25.00 fee for returned checks.
Q: How do I know if I should sign up for Spanish 1, 2, 3, or 4?
A: Spanish I –
Have little or no previous knowledge of the language
Are still learning basic vocabulary, basic grammatical structures and the present tense
Are still learning to hold a basic conversation about food, family, common objects, common activities, places, clothes, emotions, professions, etc.
Are still learning to read and write basic Spanish
Spanish 2 –
Have studied Spanish before and can hold a basic conversation in the present tense
Have a working knowledge of beginner’s vocabulary related to food, family, common objects, common activities, places, clothes, emotions, professions
Are still learning the past tenses and advanced-beginner vocabulary related to food, family, less common objects, activities, events, places, emotions, professions and descriptions.
Want to read and write at advanced-beginner level.
Spanish 3 –
Have studied the present and past tenses, and can hold an advanced-beginner conversation using common vocabulary
Are still learning the future and conditional tenses, as well as compound tenses, commands and the subjunctive mood
Are still learning intermediate vocabulary that one hears in conversation, on the street, and in books
Desire to read and write at an intermediate level
Spanish 4 –
Can understand and converse in all tenses, even if stumbling and with errors.
Want to review the past, future and conditional tenses, as well as compound tenses, commands and the subjunctive mood
Are still learning intermediate/advanced vocabulary that one hears on the news, on television, and in authentic books
Are still learning idiomatic and slang expressions in Spanish
Desire to read and write at an intermediate/advanced level
Q: After taking the Spanish 1 course, will I be ready to move up to Spanish 2 in the next session?
A: Probably not. The classes are organized so that you can repeat each level, if you want, (Spanish 1, 2, or 3) with a new story and different vocabulary, about four times. By then you should be ready to move up to the next level.
Q: What do you mean repeat the same level with a new book and different vocabulary?
A: Each level of Amistad Spanish uses four short books that you can go through in any order, that cover basic vocabulary and structures that you need to know. For example, the Spanish 1 books teach and reinforce the present tense and basic grammatical structures, but use a different story in each one, and different vocabulary.
Q: Are books and materials included in the registration fee?
A: Yes, unless otherwise specified.
Q: Where are adult classes held?
A: They are held in a private residence in Livingston, NJ. You will be advised of the exact address at the time of registration. Smoking is not allowed in any venue.
NOTE FOR 2021-2022 – CLASSES NOW HELD ON ZOOM.
Q: How many semesters/sessions do you hold throughout the year?
A: We hold a Fall and Spring semester, as well as shorter Winter and Summer sessions. There are also several mini classes offered throughout the year on special topics, such as ordering in a restaurant. See Adult Classes Page for more information.
Q: How large are classes?
A: Generally classes have between 6-12 students.
Q: Is homework assigned for classes? Are there tests?
A: Yes, homework is assigned. Knowing that adults have many commitments, the homework is encouraged but we understand if it is not completed each time. We also have audio tapes to go with the books to practice at home. Generally no formal tests are given, but the teacher is constantly assessing progress informally and will review whatever she sees that needs reinforcement.
Q: What happens in the case of inclement weather?
A: Your teacher will notify you of cancellations in the case of inclement weather or other cancellations. Any class missed will be made up the week following the last class or at another time designated by the teacher.
Q: What is your refund policy?
A: Registration fees will be refunded or applied to another class if your class is cancelled or full. If you withdraw from a course we will refund 100% of your registration fee if notice is given by four weeks before the class starts. Unfortunately, we cannot refund your money if you decide not to complete a course.
Individual Instruction/Tutoring
Q: Where is tutoring held?
A: Generally tutoring is held at the student’s home. In order to be environmentally conscious, Zoom sessions are used for students who do not live close by.
2021 – 2022 – NO OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Q: How much do you charge for tutoring?
A: The base hourly rate for 2021-22 is $80.00 for instruction in students home or via Zoom. Additional fees may be added for travel time or other reasons. Please call Tricia Idrobo at (973) 994-7018 for hourly rates for your specific situation.
Q: Can I have just one or two tutoring sessions, or do I need to have a larger number of sessions?
A: There is no minimum or maximum number of sessions. However, according to your goals and your desire to reserve a time slot, you may wish to schedule regular weekly or biweekly appointments.
Q: May I cancel a scheduled tutoring session?
A: Yes. Please give 24-hour notice so you will not be charged for the session.
Q: Are fees paid in advance?
A: Generally each tutoring session is paid at the end of that lesson. For long-term tutoring, you may pre-pay several sessions at a time, if that is convenient for you.
Q: Is homework assigned for tutoring?
A: This is determined by the student and/or parents.
Q: (High school and College) Will the tutor work with me on longer literary assignments?
A: Yes. For best use of time, e-mail or send a copy of the piece five days ahead of session.
Amistad Spanish Instruction 