What is AIM?

Founder Wendy Maxwell’s unique language teaching methodology, namely, the Accelerative Integrated Methodology (AIM) brings true transformation to the experience of teaching and learning languages.

Since its introduction 20 years ago, AIM has transformed language classes all over the world. Teachers who use AIM have reported increased engagement, motivation, focus, love of language learning and more speaking and writing from their students than ever before!

Immersive, Interactive, and Inspirational Learning

We use the Accelerative Integrated Methodology (AIM) to teach languages. AIM incorporates gestural techniques, storytelling, and a focus on productive speaking and writing skills.

This approach accelerates language acquisition and makes the learning process enjoyable and memorable.

What sets us apart?

The Gesture Approach

The AIM is a methodology that supports students by providing strategies and techniques that ensure student language acquisition and a high level of engagement. The Gesture Approach allows students to visualize, hear, say and 'feel' the language simultaneously, and this results in rapid proficiency development.

A Literacy- and Arts-Based Approach

Through the use of story and drama, songs, raps, and dances, students are moving to the language as they create meaning. Scaffolding and cooperative learning strategies help all students - the shy, weak, and strong - to find great support and success.

High-Frequency Vocabulary

One of the most essential aspects of AIM that ensures student success is the high-frequency vocabulary (Pared-Down Language) that threads throughout every aspect of this methodology. AIM is designed such that each word is repeated extensively, allowing students to develop a strong foundation for language proficiency.

AIM is a comprehensible input approach.
It also has a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) focus.

AIM will help language teachers to experience great success through a number of proven effective techniques and strategies, including:

  • Introduction and practice of vocabulary and structures through gestures
  • The initial use of a verb-centered, high-frequency, functional vocabulary
  • Linguistic reinforcement through “pleasant repetition” 
  • Contextualization through an engaging literacy- and arts-based approach (drama, songs, dance, the writing and editing process, book publishing)
  • Maximizing authentic language production through whole-class, small-group and partner work
  • Responding to the learning styles of all
  • A focus on all four language skills
  • Working from the whole to the part as opposed to from the part to the whole
  • Authentic communication in spontaneous contexts
  • Applied use of grammar concepts in meaningful situations

This methodology allows students to rapidly achieve levels of oral and written proficiency rarely seen with any other method.

Languages we offer

French

Primary, Elementary/Jr High, Secondary, Adult

Spanish

Primary, Elementary,
Jr. High/Secondary

English

Elementary,
Jr. High/Secondary

Mandarin & Japanese

Primary, Elementary