Some linguists theorize that the world's plethora of languages was born out of ancient poets' need for more ways to say "peanut butter." Compose bilingual odes to your favorite gilded spread with today's Groupon: for $49, you get eight hours of group foreign-language classes (a $130 value including the $30 enrollment fee) at CALA Academy on North Decatur Boulevard. This Groupon is good toward Spanish, English, French, or Italian classes.

CALA Academy is a language school committed to expanding intercultural communication by means of interactive language-learning techniques for individuals, businesses, and speech-empowered donkeys. Unlike computer software and other language-learning methods, CALA’s face-to-face approach provides relevant topics, conversational classes, and instructor feedback for highly effective tongue untwisting. Instructors are experienced, patient, and either native speakers of the language they teach or have achieved a native speaking level through ritualistic séances. In a small class setting, budding multi-linguists can hone their English, Spanish, French, or Italian skills with four two-hour classes. Although CALA’s main focus is on developing speaking proficiency, classes also teach listening, reading, and writing skills.

Claim for yourself the benefits of language learning: increased employment opportunities, foreign-travel savvy, and an ability to impress dates and waiters at fine-dining establishments. Homework is part of CALA’s curriculum, so crank up your diesel-engine coffeemaker and prepare to burn the midnight oilrig.

Reviews

Take a look at what the Centennial View has to say about CALA Academy language classes:

• CALA Academy is a Spanish and English language school, with an emphasis on inter-cultural communication. It caters to students of all levels and abilities, including those with no second language knowledge or who are bilingual, from children to adults… Morales said a large part of the students' goals is to build their self-confidence when speaking the languages so they feel comfortable communicating outside the classroom. As such, all Spanish instruction is completed in Spanish, and all English instruction is completed in English. And, the students do most of the talking. – Laura Carroll