What is the Language Pledge^®?
 

All Language Academy students agree to abide by the Language Pledge, a commitment to speak, listen to, read, and write the language of study as the only means of communication for the entire summer session. It is the foundation of MMLA’s immersion program. The Language Pledge originated at Middlebury College’s Language Schools, and the term is a registered trademark of Middlebury College.

The Middlebury-Monterey Language Academy has adapted the Language Pledge to fit the learning styles of middle and high school students. The program begins with a phase-in period, whose length and conditions vary according to each student’s skill level. The Pledge Ceremony marks the formal beginning of each student’s commitment to truly live the language 24 hours a day.

What does the Language Pledge say?

The Pledge says: "In signing this Language Pledge, I agree to use _________ as my only language of communication while attending the Middlebury-Monterey Language Academy."

Why are students required to take the Pledge?

The Pledge helps students focus their time and energy on learning and practicing the language they’re studying. The Pledge plays a major role in student success at the Academy — both as a symbol of commitment and as an essential part of the learning process. It ensures that classroom learning is "put in motion" right away, so that skills and vocabulary are used, practiced, and remembered.

Do beginning students have to take the Pledge?

Students who are beginning their study of a language take a modified and progressively more rigorous Pledge. There is also support, special help, and individual attention to help students embrace this commitment and make language breakthroughs.

Can I use English for phone conversations with parents and family? What about emergencies?

Students are excused from the Language Pledge during emergencies, of course, and for telephone conversations with parents, other family members, and other persons outside the program. However, the Academy asks students not to bring or use cell phones, but to use only the phones in the program office, so that any conversations in English do not interrupt or disrupt other students in their commitment to the Pledge. In keeping with MMLA’s full-immersion environment, we ask that students keep to a minimum their contact with family members.

If you have any other questions about the Language Pledge, please contact us.