Sample Syllabus
Objetivos:
This course is the last of the introductory courses to the Spanish language and the many facets of Hispanic cultures. Specifically, you will
a) expand your ability to express yourself and understand others in conversation,
b) practice using the various tenses of the past, the future, the subjunctive mode,
c) read Spanish texts,
d) express ideas in writing with coherence and a variety of vocabulary, and
e) gain greater knowledge of the large and varied Spanish-speaking world.
En la clase:
The course places emphasis on the four basic language skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening comprehension. The in-class time will be mostly devoted to the oral components of speaking and listening, but we will also practice reading and writing. The class period will be conducted entirely in Spanish. Every effort is made to provide each student with several opportunities to speak during each class period, but students must make a conscious effort to take advantage of this time. You should come well prepared to speak in class. You should read the assignment from Tú dirás and try to anticipate what you can contribute to the class activities for that day. Prepare questions if you don't understand certain points, prepare vocabulary that might be needed, never be afraid or too shy to ask. Remember that in a foreign language classroom the instructor is a moderator/helper, students are the active participants.
Asistencia y participación:
Learning a foreign language implies participation and interaction. If the student is not in class, s/he can not participate. Your participation grade is based on volunteering information, attentiveness to others speaking, small group work, and using Spanish (not English) in the classroom. You are allowed two unexcused absences. After your second absence, you will receive a 0 for participation for that day.
Presentaciones orales:
An important part of this course is to improve oral proficiency. Your spoken Spanish will be evaluated during two oral presentations: one in-class paired format about traveling and one in-class individual format about a Hispanic writer, artist, or musician. The best way to prepare for them is to participate actively in class activities. Students have to consult with the professor before their presentations.
Exámenes:
There will be three tests during the semester and one final exam. No make up exams.
Tarea:
The workbook is a useful tool for a variety of purposes. It will serve as the basis for our out-of-class assignments. Specific exercises that are mandatory are written into the syllabus. Additional exercises to practice grammatical structures or to enhance your reading, listening and writing skills will be assigned by the professor. Please note however, that many of the workbook assignments will require time, particularly the writing assignments.
Composiciones:
Students will write a series of compositions, either from the workbook or from a specific topic the professor assigns. As in other types of formal writing, they should be typed, double-spaced, with correct punctuation (including accent marks), careful paragraphing and coherent organization. Each composition will be corrected and resubmitted. No late work is accepted.
Students are expected to turn in papers on the day they are due and take tests on the day scheduled. Special arrangements may be made when justified by circumstances and when the professor is notified in advance. Sorry, no make-up exams.