TEACHING EXPERIENCE & PHILOSOPHY

  • Mr. Norris has studied six languages. He understands the problems of learning languages. He knows how to correct them. Mr. Norris has traveled extensively in Europe and Latin America.
  • He has been a translator for groups, which travel to Latin America. He has taught beginning, secondary and third level Spanish. He also teaches English to adults and college students.
  • Mr. Norris teaches in unique methods not used by ordinary schools and instructors. His methods incorporate vocabulary, pronunciation and usage in a non-frustrating and non-confusing structure. The student progresses at a more rapid rate, which makes learning more fun.
  • Cultural, historic and geographic references are used so that the student has a better connection with the language and does not get bored.
  • The techniques for teaching languages start with an evaluation. After the evaluation, a specific program is designed for each student. As the lessons progress, other problem areas may be recognized which need to be addressed.
  • The learning of languages is not just a mental exercise. It also involves physical exercises co-ordinated by the brain. It is important that the student practices the muscular movements of the jaw, lips, throat and tongue. Mr. Norris' methods analyze the student's native language so he can explain to the student why he is having trouble with a particular sound. The student can then make the necessary corrections.
  • A useful tool in the learning process is audiocassettes. There is instant re-enforcement and correction.
  • Singing is used as a vehicle for correcting accents and problems in speech rhythm.
  • The beginning student concentrates on the 1500 to 2000 core words, that people in the developed world use in everyday speech.
  • Practice makes perfect.