The goal of this non-intensive course is to provide students with limited or no previous background in the language with a basic knowledge of Spanish grammar and functional vocabulary as well as practice in speaking and writing. It will also provide strategies for studying a second language that will prepare students for an intensive Spanish class during the winter. A range of verb tenses and grammatical structures will be used in real-life contexts and practiced daily in small group activities. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to comprehend and interpret simple journalistic articles and analyze short oral passages. It will also prepare students to write and sustain general conversations with native speakers about self, family, academic life and interests, cultural traditions, and current events.

Course Requirements:

Daily class attendance is required. Students must attend co-curricular activities: (lunch tables and one coffee hour) at least two times per week. In order to receive credit for the course, students must pass the final exam and show a steady mastery of the material throughout the term.

Class Format:

The course meets four times a week and is complemented with individual tutorials and group reviews. Class focuses on gaining a foundation on the language for communicative purposes on familiar topics and those of general interest, as well as on learning strategies for the successful acquisition of a second language.