Portuguese 1 for Middle School

Ms. Bastos is an experienced bilingual instructor, language specialist, and Licensed Psychologist in Brazil, with over 20 years of expertise facilitating learning in both English and Portuguese. Her professional background includes diagnosing and addressing psychological conditions, like attention deficit and dyslexia. She has also supported individuals in career management, learning assessments, and psychotherapy.

Born in Brazil, Daniella grew up immersed in bilingual materials, deeply influenced by her mother, who is also an English and Portuguese teacher. A decade ago, she relocated to the United States, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Psychology and Neuroscience. This journey deepened her understanding of immigration, multicultural competencies, and the transformative power of bilingualism.

With her extensive background in Psychology, Neuroscience, learning processes, and language acquisition, Daniella designs customized classes in Brazilian Portuguese, Professional Guidance, and Multicultural Studies for learners of all ages. Her personalized courses and specialized materials are tailored to meet each student’s unique needs, fostering active learning during and beyond lessons.

To further support her students, Daniella created a podcast where she regularly shares content about the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture. The episodes are inspired by the topics and questions raised in class, offering additional insights and resources.

Daniella believes that learning a language is a gateway to cultural connection, intellectual growth and mental health. Portuguese enriches self-expression and provides access to the people, art, and history of many vibrant cultures. From the poetic traditions of Portugal to the rhythms of Brazil, and the profound works of Lusophone writers and artists across the 13 countries, the student will find a world of inspiration. By learning Portuguese, one gains new means of communication, along with heightened sensitivity to the nuances of human behavior, art, and social relations, fostering a deeper appreciation for self-expression and emotional connection.