A central element of La Paz education is learning in both English and Spanish. Extensive research has revealed the cognitive, social, and instrumental benefits of bilingualism.
Two Way Dual Immersion
La Paz Community School’s Two Way Dual Immersion (TWDI) Program is a long-term biliteracy plan that requires a full commitment from both students, families, and teachers. Students are immersed into the Spanish and English languages through a balanced and socioculturally relevant academic experience where approximately 50% of their day is spent on Oracy and Literacy in each language. For students to receive the maximum intended benefits, it is recommended that students continue in the program for at least four to five years.
Thematic Learning
The most successful dual immersion language learning occurs within the context of a theme-driven curriculum. By focusing on themes, the subject always has relevance to the big picture and aids students in their language development. Thematically guided units function as a unifying factor across grade levels to ensure that all material, regardless of subject matter, be taught in an interdisciplinary way. The 8 themes for the school year are:
- Peace Ambassadors
- Sustainability
- Origins
- Land and Sea
- Wellness
- Energy
- Creative Expression
- Gratitude.
Regularly scheduled experiential excursions that take students to our local communities as well as regions around Costa Rica dramatically impact the power of the Dual Immersion thematic learning experience.