A different way of learning at NYC
In my last post, I gave you tips on how to choose the perfect Spanish tutor. I was thinking about that post last night, and I don’t know why but I my thoughts suddenly drifted to how to make the lessons fun. Now, I am a big fan of Mexican food. I love everything Mexican! Taco, nachos (the real one, please. Not the kind you see inside a plastic bag!), callos, paella valenciana… I love them all! And this made me think, “Hey… Why not fuse eating and learning together?”
So, here’s my idea. Why not invite your tutor or your Spanish speaking buddy to a lunch or dinner at your favorite Spanish restaurant? You can try having tapa at Malaga restaurant [located at Manhattan’s upper East side or check http://www.malaganyc.com/default.asp?contentID=1] or why not try the Mussels Diablo at Sangria 46 [http://www.sangria46.com/media/sangria.html for details]? You can also order foods that you’re not really familiar with (or have them order for you) and guess the Spanish names for the ingredients of the food. So, let’s say you have a yummy plate of Paella Valenciana on your table. This is usually made of shrimps, scallops, clams, mussels, and chicken. Name each in Spanish and have your tutor check if you are right. You can also make some rules, like: You can only start eating when you perfect everything, or you can only eat half if you make at least two mistakes, etc. I think you should also speak in Spanish only all throughout the meal to really feel the ambience of the place. Have your tutor correct your mistakes, and repeat the phrase correctly so you can also practice speaking.
As for the cost, maybe you could split 50-50 (Hey, you’re both gonna eat!). Or if you are in a good mood, maybe you could treat your teacher. =)
One of the reason I am suggesting this is because I don’t believe the classroom is the only place to learn. Actually, the best way of learning for me is by being exposed to actual things and having fun at the same time. My mind functions more when I am relaxed, and not being confined in a four cornered room relaxes me. Happy eating everyone!
