In our ever-smaller world, in which we are thrust into instant communication with what were once remote and distant nations and peoples, the ability to speak a “foreign” language is more important than it has ever been.

 

Spanish is the official language, not only of Spain, but also of México, Central America, the Caribbean islands of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, and most of South America. Spanish is the fourth most spoken language on the planet and the United States is now officially the third largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.

 

The goals of this class are for the student to gain competency in communication and proficiency in the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. These goals will be reached through several media including the use of the Rassias method, a fast-paced language drill which encourages students to speak the language; Spanish videos which show native speakers in real-life situations; and project presentations which will highlight cultural and historical aspects of Spanish-speaking countries.

 

At the beginning of the term, students will review previous grammar and vocabulary and then undertake the study of new material. As in the past years, students will gain proficiency in the language through drilling, a continual review of vocabulary, listening exercises, short readings, writing assignments, in-class presentations, dialogues and other communicative activities. Students will also be exposed to elements of Hispanic culture through readings and projects.