This effective training program uses a workbook, flash cards, and an audio cassette tape to teach users how to speak basic Spanish in order to communicate with co-workers. The user will learn industry-specific vocabulary necessary to carry out work-related tasks. Industry-specific English has never been so easy to learn!Topics include maintenance, construction, irrigation, safety, and information pertaining to commercial and residential sites.For workers in site maintenance, landscaping, irrigation, and construction who need to communicate with their co-workers in Spanish.

Jennifer Thomas first noticed the need for Green Industry managers to learn Spanish when she was playing golf and speaking Spanish with a Latino employee at a golf club near Chicago. The employee lamented, "'Rapido!' That's the only Spanish word my boss knows! That's all he ever says!" They discussed how not knowing one another's language caused them to lose ten to fifteen minutes an hour in productivity trying to explain a task using just body language. The lack of communication had caused misunderstandings, mistakes, and rework.

Shortly after, Ms. Thomas developed and wrote Spanish for the Green Industry and English for the Green Industry. She is a regular presenter at Green Industry educational conferences, businesses and University Extension offices.

Her unique training methods and customized courses stem from her extensive educational background and experiences living and working in Mexico, Spain, and South America as well as teaching high school Spanish for many years. Ms. Thomas holds a Master's degree in International Management from the American Graduate School for International Management.

As a former tennis teaching professional and junior golf instructor, Ms. Thomas has much experience training, coaching, and motivating all walks of life. She lives in Evanston, Illinois and spends her summers in Green Lake, Wisconsin.

PURPOSEThe Spanish and English for the Green Industry training materials have been developed specifically for those who would like to work more productively and effectively with their diverse co-workers. The purpose of this course is to prepare you for that challenge. This training program will provide you with the necessary skills needed to be successful working in an organization with a diverse staff: You will learn: Industry specific vocabulary How to assign tasks, follow up, correct and praise behavior Key cultural differences Team building tipsSince United States' service industries hire many Spanish-speaking employees, bilingual and bicultural employees are very needed and welcomed. The skills you learn in this training program will prove to be very practical and marketable for many years to come. Benefits of StudyingSpanish and English for the Green Industry Improves front line supervisors' ability to communicate Increases productivity Improves safety Increases employee retention and referrals Builds teamwork, motivation, and rapport Improves cultural leadership skills of front line supervisors Increases confidence and comfort level working in a diverse setting Provides convenience and availability since it is an on-site class Provides consistency between University study and company training Oral proficiency in Spanish and English is a valuable skill to add to one's resume SUPPORT MATERIALS For the StudentThe textbook includes Spanish and English word lists and corresponding pictures, interactive role play exercises, crossword puzzles, dialogues, review activities, and a Spanish/English dictionary. Each chapter contains a cultural reading as well as several team-building tips. A set of flashcards also allows students to review and practice the vocabulary together.The audiocassette tape provides the correct pronunciation of the vocabulary, and it serves as a follow up oral quiz. For the FacilitatorThe Facilitator's Guide offers many suggestions, teaching methods and instructions on how to implement the basic training program. It explains how to facilitate the learning activities and exciting games. Overhead Transparenciesare provided to enhance the facilitator's presentation of the training program. They are popular games that help the participants review the material in an enjoyable atmosphere. Flash Cardsare provided in two sizes. The large set is provided for the facilitator to introduce the vocabulary and to use with the review activities. The small sets allow the students to review and practice with one another in small groups. Tests, Quizzes and Answer Keysare provided for every chapter and activity in the textbook.