|
This course helps you to continue developing basic communication skills
in Spanish while exploring the products, practices and perspectives of
Hispanic cultures.
By the end of the course you should be able to:
» understand native speakers of Spanish when they talk about: themselves,
their friends and families, their activities, interests, daily routines, jobs,
classes, plans for the future and references to the past.
» talk to native speakers of Spanish about the above topics, in phrases and
sentences, refering to different time frames.
» write basic compositions in simple but complete sentences and paragraphs
about the above topics which are comprehensible to a native reader.
» read texts (some prepared specifically for students of Spanish, others
authentic) dealing with cultural products and practices related to the above
topics.
» recognize and compare similarities and differences between your own culture
and Hispanic cultures.
» recognize and appreciate the value of learning to communicate in more than
one language, and knowing about other cultures.
|
Total immersion in language and culture…
Your instructor and course materials will provide you with numerous
opportunities to develop language skills and cultural competence through the use
of language to hear, read, write and talk about things that are relevant to your life. During every
class session you will find yourself immersed in a rich Spanish language
environment that will help you learn how to communicate meaningfully in Spanish.
…not grammar lectures
Class time is not meant for lectures about parts of speech or grammar rules; it
is your time to express yourselves in Spanish, and collectively explore the
language and the cultures. Use it and enjoy it!
Your job
1. Relax and don’t be afraid to speak up or to make mistakes.
2. Prepare for class on a daily basis by studying the vocabulary and the grammar (associate
those words and concepts with images, actions, and your own preferences and experiences just like in class),
talking with people that speak Spanish, listening to music in Spanish, watching TV and films in Spanish, and
going to your instructor's office hours when you need help.
3. Seize all of the opportunities created for you.
4. Respect the rules of the Spanish-only classroom, and encourage everyone else to do the same.
5. Interact with the Hispanic world around you.
6. Seek out help the moment you think you might be having trouble.
|
