swimming- breathing

Question
Hi
I am 19 yrs old and for the first time I am takign swimming lessons.  I am already in my fourth class and I am having trouble with breathing underwater. I keep getting water to my nose and mouth. Do you know any tricks to breath under water without getting too much water up to my nose and mouth.
What is the proper technique of breathing under water?
Thanks
Jen

Answer
Jen--
The first thing you should tryto do is to remember, when your face is in the water you should be blowing air out of your mouth, nose or both.  When you are starting you need to try to turn your head far enough to get your mouth clear of the water before you inhale.  You will probably still get a little water in your mouth, but with practice that will become less and less.
Hope this helps,
George