About Your Instructor

Profesora K. A. Thorne

Photo of Professor Thorne

Hola, Spanish 3! I am so happy that you have decided to take this Intermediate course in Spanish. My introduction video is in the Home page, along with detailed information about the class. Please also read the entire Syllabus, which should answer most (if not all) of your questions regarding the course. 

I received my PhD from Yale University in Spanish and Portuguese. For the last 30+ years, I have taught all levels of Spanish language and literature, from Spanish 1 for 9th grade all the way to "how to teach Spanish" courses for Spanish teachers at the secondary level. I have taught graduate students and kids as young as 9. I love to teach, and I believe that online learning can be an incredibly effective way to learn a language if done correctly. What do I mean by "correctly"? Three things: maintain regular contact with me via Zoom, email, or chat, so that you take full advantage of my background and experience in the language. Commit to your Spanish education outside of the virtual classroom--speak it, listen to it, and engage with the Hispanic/Latino cultures around you as much as possible. And finally, commit to several semesters or years of ongoing education in Spanish. A language isn't something you're "done" with at a certain point, but a living, dynamic system of communication. I learned Spanish at 5 years old in Madrid, and I am still learning. 

I am here as your guide through the course and a resource when you have questions or need practice in the language. Know that your education matters to me, and I will do my best to make this an enriching and fun experience for you all Your job is to work this program to its full advantage. 

 

The Best Way to Contact Me

  • Email Address: PLEASE USE CANVAS EMAIL for class related issues; for all others, use thorneka@piercecollege.edu
  • Office Hours: MTW from 9:00 to noon and by appointment

Please always feel free to reach out to me. I am here to support you.

I will do my best to respond to you within 24-hours Monday - Saturday. I reserve Sunday as a family day and any messages received on this day will be returned by Monday. I am human, so if you do not receive a response from me please assume your message was not received and send again. Thank you!

 

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