Portuguese
Uniquely for Latin America, Brazil's nearly 200 million citizens are Lusophones – Portuguese-speakers. Students will study Brazilian Portuguese, learning basic vocabulary and sentence structures to facilitate interaction with locals and increase their exposure to Brazilian culture.. No prior knowledge of the language is required; depending on student demand, those with previous study experience can be offered an advanced Portuguese track.

Music and Dance
Music is a core element in the Brazilian culture. Students will have the opportunity to study different rhythmical beats used by blocos and schools of samba during Carnaval as well as the peculiarities of typical instruments as "zurdo", "pandeiro" and "agogó" whose sounds blend in an energizing "Batucada". Brazil, ifamous worldwide as the cradle of bossa nova, is also home to many other styles that compose its rich musical heritage.. Samba and forró are also part of the Brazilian identity.. Students will learn the basic steps and secrets to share the local gafieira dancehall floor with locals!

Arts and Crafts
Grafitti, considered by some as an art and by others as a social expression, is ubiquitous in São Paulo. A grafittero will be invited to teach the students the history of this expression and different techniques for them to try. Kites and lanterns are not just traditional games for children. They are a handcraft that requires the mastery of some specific skills that will be passed on to the students for them to produce their own.

Capoeira 
Several days a week, students will benefit from the practice of capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, music, and dance. It was created in Brazil around 400 years ago by African slaves by mixing the many fighting styles from many of their tribes.

Excursions
During their stay, students will have the opportunity to take trips outside São Paulo. Pending student and parent input, we are considering:

Paranapiacaba
Paranapiacaba is a village in the neighboring municipality of Santo André that originally grew as a residence for the staff of the English railway company that allowed the transport of cargo and passengers from the interior to the port of Santos. Apart from historical sites, it has wonderful hiking trails in the heart of the Atlantic rainforest. A famous winter musical festival is held in the village, which will be at full swing by the time of the students' visit.

Santos
The biggest seaport in Latin America is located in one of region's most historic cities. It is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the seaside and learn about history at the Coffee museum. A visit to a panoramic point at Ilha Poshá with a great view of the coast, a relaxing stroll along the 3 km of gardens by the side of the beach or a refreshing bath in the Atlantic Ocean are among the options of the things to do in this charming city.