Overview of Course

Conducted entirely in Spanish and anchored in engaged and active learning tactics, this conversation course aims to improve students’ fluency and comprehension through student-led discussions of contemporary issues from around the world. The subject matter covered in the course will relate to current events and controversial topics from Spanish-speaking cultures and our ports of call. For example, we’ll use films, newspaper articles, short stories, artwork, etc. to investigate topics such as immigration, well-being, environment, etc. In particular, we will focus on skills related to rich, expansive description and narration fundamental to persuasive communication. We will also engage deeply with active listening, questioning, and dialogue to effectively communicate across difference. The course places a strong emphasis on intercultural learning, expansion of vocabulary, and review of grammar necessary for practicing these communicative skills. At the end of the semester, students will demonstrate oral communication skills at the intermediate level (according to ACTFL proficiency levels).