2007 - 2008 Catalog

The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures offers courses and degree options in French and Spanish. The courses range from beginning language instruction to the study of literature, linguistics, and culture at the graduate level. First- and second-year instruction is also available in Japanese.

The department offers undergraduate majors in French and Spanish language and culture in either a standard curriculum or an accelerated baccalaureate degree program (see Special Programs). In Spanish, students may select Track A (International Internship) or Track B (Language, Literature, and Culture).

After earning a bachelor’s degree, a student may earn a basic teaching license in French or Spanish at the secondary level through the School of Education’s Master of Arts in Teaching. The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures offers graduate coursework toward this interdisciplinary master’s degree in education.

The department also offers a Summer Language Institute (SLI) through the SOU Center for Language Studies. SLI is a summer program for high school foreign language teachers who wish to obtain a master’s degree in arts and letters.

Students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish may also work under the supervision of a member of the Spanish faculty to earn a master’s degree with a major in Spanish. The master’s with a major in Spanish offers three separate emphases: Hispanic literature, Spanish language and linguistics, and Hispanic cultural studies. (See Master’s Degrees in School Areas.)

Degrees

BA in Language and Culture, with options in French and Spanish
BA in Arts and Letters, with options in French and Spanish
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, with options in French and Spanish
Master of Arts and Letters

Minors

French, German, and Spanish

Language Requirements

Southern Oregon Foreign Language Proficiency Program

High school students may obtain SOU foreign language credit through the Southern Oregon Foreign Language Proficiency Program, sponsored by the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures and the Southern Oregon Foreign Language Articulation (SOFLA) project. Only approved schools and teachers are allowed to participate in the program. To receive the credit, students must be high school seniors enrolled in an advanced (third, fourth, or fifth year) high school language program. These students must successfully pass an Oral Proficiency Interview administered by a certified tester of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and demonstrate writing proficiency through the SOFLA writing proficiency exam based on the ACTFL scale. The following credits will be awarded:

1. 101, 102 for scores equivalent to novice high on the ACTFL scale in both speaking and writing;
   
2. 101, 102, 103 for scores equivalent to intermediate low on the ACTFL scale in both speaking and writing; or
   
3. 101, 102, 103 and 201, 202 for scores equivalent to intermediate mid on the ACTFL scale in both speaking and writing.
   

Students planning to enroll at SOU who place at the intermediate mid level on both assessments may receive additional credit for 203 upon recommendation of their high school teacher and successful completion of a 300-level class at SOU.

Advanced Placement/Credit by Examination

Students seeking credit for 100- and 200-level second language coursework are granted the following exception to the Credit by Exam policy: Students who place in a course beyond 101, enroll in the course within one year of taking the placement exam, and complete the higher-level course with a B or better may purchase credit for the lower-level courses. Students must apply for credit within one term of completing the higher-level course. In addition, students who place in the 300-level of Spanish may take an additional written exam to place into SPAN 312 or 412. Students who place into one of those courses and successfully complete it with a B or better may purchase credits for SPAN 310 and 311.

BA in Language and Culture

A language and culture major with an option in French or Spanish prepares students for a variety of careers in which cultural understanding, local or international work, critical thinking, and practical application of a second language play a significant role. The language and culture major is also an excellent complement to a second major in many fields. It adds valuable foreign language and cultural competency and international or multicultural experience to knowledge in other disciplines, preparing students for careers in government or civil service, law enforcement, health and human services, travel and tourism, and entrepreneurial business. The degree also offers options that prepare students for graduate work in the language, literature, and culture of their concentration, as well as in linguistics, comparative literature, cultural studies, international studies, international business, teaching, and law.

The language and culture major enables intermediate to advanced students to maximize their competency in language skills and cultural proficiency by focusing on communication, practical applications, research and analysis, language fluency, and cultural knowledge and understanding. Two language and culture options equip undergraduates with varying skills to reach their potential language and culture proficiency levels. Option A: International Internship requires a full-time, ten-week work internship completed abroad. Option B: Language, Literature, and Culture requires additional coursework and a minimum of 120 hours of work completed locally or abroad in a multicultural or international community. The work must be done in the foreign language of concentration. Both the international and local work experiences must demonstrate high language skills and good cultural knowledge.

The language and culture major is also designed to increase students’ preparedness to enter the work world. To this end, both options require the student to complete a minor or a second major in another field.

Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program

Language and culture majors may participate in the University’s Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program. For information on this program, see page 157.

Admission to the Major

To be admitted to the language and culture baccalaureate program, students must have:

1. Completed two years of college-level French or Spanish or the equivalent;
   
2. Attained a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 in all coursework;
   
3. Attained a cumulative GPA of a least 3.0 in all coursework in the language option chosen; and
   
4. Demonstrated an oral proficiency level equivalent to intermediate mid on the scale published by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
   

Requirements for the Major

Students in all languages and options must complete the following minimum requirements:

1. Fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements as stated beginning on page 21.
   
2. Speak with an advisor in the preferred language area and select either Track A (International Internship) or Track B (Language, Literature, and Culture).
   
3. Intermediate culture electives (8 credits).
   
4. A core of intermediate language credits (12–20 credits).
   
5. Advanced language, literature, or culture credits (16–20 credits).
   
6. Upper division culture electives that have been approved by an advisor (8 credits).
   
7. A culture-specific work experience (minimum of 4–8 credits).
   
8. A capstone project, which must be completed under the supervision of a member of the languages and literatures faculty (4 credits).
   
9. A minor or a second major.
   
10. A research paper requirement, which must be met by completing FR 315, and SPAN 312 or 412 in courses on the SOU campus in Ashland.
    
11. A minimum 2.75 GPA in the language of specialization and a 2.5 GPA overall.
    
12. A campus residency requirement. At least 16 upper division credits that have been approved by an advisor in the language of concentration, in addition to the capstone project and the practical work experience, must be completed in courses offered on the SOU campus in Ashland. At least 8 credits taken in residence, excluding capstone and practica credits, must be at the 400-level.
    
13. Additional language-specific requirements. See an advisor in the option.
    

Foreign Residency and Study Abroad

Both Options A and B encourage students to take advantage of the many varied and high-quality study abroad programs available. Oregon University System (OUS) internship and study abroad credit is accepted for the major, with advisor consent. An academic year abroad is recommended for all language and culture majors. Option A requires students to work and reside abroad.

International Internship for Option A

Under Option A, students must complete an international internship. The internship requires a minimum of ten weeks of full-time work and students receive at least 6 to 15 credits. The work must be completed in a country where the language of specialization is spoken. Work credits are overseen by a member of the foreign languages and literatures faculty. Students undertake the internship once they have achieved an appropriate level of oral, aural, reading, writing, and cultural proficiency, usually toward the end of the junior year or at the completion of a study abroad program. The department recommends that students participate in a study abroad or other international residency prior to completing the internship, which is carried out in the language of specialization and overseen by a member of the foreign languages and literatures faculty. The internship includes statements of work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation.

Community-Based Work for Option B

Under Option B, students must complete a local or foreign work experience with a community in which Spanish is spoken. The community work practicum requires a minimum of 120 hours of full-time or part-time work. Students receive 4 to 15 credits. The work experience is carried out in the language of specialization. The work must have a multicultural or international focus and may be completed locally or abroad. Students undertake the work experience once they have achieved an appropriate level of oral, aural, reading, writing, and cultural proficiency, usually toward the end of the junior year or in relation to a study abroad program. Requirements include statements of work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation.

Capstone

All students in both Options A and B must complete a capstone project that demonstrates the skills and knowledge acquired during the completion of the major. The capstone project includes an analytical research paper and annotated bibliography following standard MLA format. The research is presented before students and a panel of foreign languages and literatures faculty.

French Language and Culture Option A: International Internship

Interdisciplinary Culture Core

(8 credits)

Francophone Cultures (FR 220)*	4
Cultural Anthropology: Perspectives on Humanity (ANTH 213)	4
Communication Across Cultures (COMM 200)	4

*Required.

Language and Culture Core

(12 credits)

Introduction to French Literature (FR 301)	4
La France Contemporaine (FR 314)	4
Civilisation francaise (FR 315)*	4

*Meets requirement for research and writing training in the major.

Advanced Language and Culture Courses

(16 credits)

Survey of French Literature (FR 311)	4
Survey of French Literature (FR 312)	4
French Pronunciation and Phonetics (FR 331)	4
Topics in French Film (FR 350/450)	4
Topics in French Literature (FR 426)	4
Noncontinental Francophone Literature (FR 427)	4
Topics in French Culture (FR 428)	4
Advanced French Grammar (FR 445)	4
Translation (FR 460)	4

Advanced Culture Electives

(8 credits)

Topics in French Film (FR 350/450)*	8
Topics in French Culture (FR 428)*	8
Approved upper division extra-departmental courses	0–8

*May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Can only be used for culture elective when topic is different from courses used to meet Advance Language and Culture requirements.

International Internship

(minimum 8 credits/ten weeks of full-time work)*

International Internship (FR 408)*

8

*Students who are unable to complete an international work internship in a French-speaking country are required to complete an additional 12 credits of elective courses, which must include FR 409 community-based work experience for 4 credits.

Capstone

(4 credits)

Research and Writing Capstone (FR 490)

4

At least 16 credits of the major must be completed on the Ashland campus, 12 credits of which must be in courses at the 400-level.

Spanish Language and Culture Option A: International Internship

Interdisciplinary Culture Core

(8 credits)

Introduction to Reading Hispanic Literature (SPAN 301)*	4
Cultural Anthropology: Perspectives on Humanity (ANTH 213)	4
Communication Across Cultures (COMM 200)	4

*Required.
Note: SPAN 320, 425, or 441 may be substituted for ANTH 213, COMM 200, or COMM 201 when not used to meet requirements for the Advanced Culture Elective below.

Language and Culture Core

(20–24 credits)

Hispanic Culture, Composition, and Conversation (SPAN 310, 311)	8
Hispanic Culture, Composition, and Conversation (SPAN 312)* or Advanced Composition, Conversation, and Culture (SPAN 412)*	4
Spanish Grammar Review (SPAN 315)	4
Nineteenth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 322)** or Twentieth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 323)**	4–8

*Meets requirement for research and writing training in the major. SPAN 412 is for heritage or native speakers or students who have studied abroad.
**SPAN 322 and 323 are required for students who choose to take SPAN 421, 422, and 425 in Advanced Language or Culture.

Advanced Language and Culture Courses

(12 credits)

Spanish Phonetics/Phonology (SPAN 331)	4
Topics in Hispanic Culture (SPAN 441)*	4
Topics in Theoretical and Applied Spanish Linguistics (SPAN 481)*	4
Topics in Writing and Translation (SPAN 482)*	4
Selected Genre or Period Studies (SPAN 421)*	4
Major Literary Figures (SPAN 422)*	4
Topics in Contemporary Hispanic Literature and Society (SPAN 425)*	4

*May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

Advanced Culture Electives

(8 credits)

Topics in Hispanic Film (SPAN 320)*	4
Topics in Contemporary Hispanic Literature and Society (SPAN 425)*	4
Topics in Hispanic Culture (SPAN 441)*	4
Approved upper division extra-departmental courses	8

*May be repeated for credit when topic changes.
**May only be used to meet Advanced Culture Elective requirements when not used to meet Advanced Language and Culture requirements above.

International Internship

(minimum 6 credits/ten weeks of full-time work)*

International Internship (SPAN 408)

8–15

*Students must enroll for a minimum of 6 credits but may receive up to 15 credits for the work internship.

Capstone

(4 credits)

Research and Writing Capstone (SPAN 490)

4

Spanish Language and Culture Option B: Language, Literature, and Culture

Interdisciplinary Culture Core**

(select 8 credits from the following)

Introduction to Reading Hispanic Literature (SPAN 301)*	4
Cultural Anthropology: Perspectives on Humanity (ANTH 213)	4
Communication Across Cultures (COMM 200)	4

*Required.
**Students may substitute SPAN 320, 425, or 441 for ANTH 213, COMM 200, or COMM 201 when not used to meet Culture Elective requirement below.

Language and Culture Core

(24 credits)

Hispanic Culture, Composition, and Conversation (SPAN 310, 311)	8
Hispanic Culture, Composition, and Conversation (SPAN 312)* or Advanced Composition, Conversation, and Culture (SPAN 412)*	4
Spanish Grammar Review (SPAN 315)	4
Nineteenth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 322)	4
Twentieth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 323)	4

*Meets requirement for research and writing training in the major. SPAN 412 is for heritage or native speakers or students who have studied abroad.

Advanced Language and Culture Courses

(20 credits)

Selected Genre of Period Studies (SPAN 421)*, Major Literary Figures (SPAN 422)*, or Topics in Contemporary Hispanic Literature and Society (SPAN 425)*	12
Spanish Phonetics/Phonology (SPAN 331), Topics in Theoretical and Applied Spanish Linguistics (SPAN 481)*, or Topics in Writing and Translation (SPAN 482)*	8

*May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

Advanced Culture Electives

(select 8 credits from the following)

Topics in Hispanic Film (SPAN 320)*	4
Topics in Contemporary Hispanic Literature and Society (SPAN 425)*	4
Topics in Hispanic Culture (SPAN 441)*	4
Or approved upper division extra-departmental courses	8

*May be repeated for credit when topic changes.
**May only be used for culture elective when not used to meet Advanced Language and Culture requirements above.

Community-Based Work Experience

(minimum 4 credits/120 hours of work)

Community-Based Work Experience (SPAN 406)

4

Capstone

(4 credits)

Research and Writing Capstone (SPAN 490)

4

Minors

Students may minor in French, German, or Spanish by completing 24 upper division credits in one of these languages.

French

Select 24 credits of French, of which at least 20 must be upper division, as follows. At least 8 credits must be taken on the SOU Ashland campus.
Required Courses

German

Required Courses

Select 24 upper division credits in German as follows. At least 8 credits must be taken in courses on the SOU campus in Ashland.

German Culture, Conversation, and Composition (GL 301, 302, 303)

12

Select 12 credits from the following:

Seminar (GL 407/507)	TBD
International Internship (GL 408/508)	TBD
Major Figures in German Literature (GL 413)	4
Germany 1845–1945: Germany’s Search for Unity (GL 440)	4
Germany 1945–1990: From Division to Unity (GL 441)	4

Spanish

Required Courses

Select 24 credits of upper division courses in Spanish as follows. With advisor approval, up to 8 credits of Spanish may be transferred from other accredited universities, and approved credits earned studying abroad may be applied. Students must take at least 8 credits of upper division courses on the SOU campus in Ashland.

Introduction to Reading Hispanic Literature (SPAN 301)	4
Hispanic Culture, Composition, and Conversation (SPAN 310, 311, 312)	4, 4, 4
Spanish Grammar Review (SPAN 315)	4
Topics in Hispanic Film (SPAN 320)	4
Nineteenth- or Twentieth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 322 or 323)	4, 4
Advanced Composition, Conversation, and Culture (SPAN 412)	4
Spanish Phonetics/Phonology (SPAN 331)	4
Topics in Hispanic Culture (SPAN 441)	3–4

Teacher Licensing

Students who would like to teach French or Spanish at the middle school or high school level in Oregon public schools must complete a bachelor’s degree in French or Spanish before applying for admission to the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program at SOU. Interested students should consult the department chair for an appropriate advisor and the School of Education regarding admission requirements for the MAT program.

Students must prepare in advance to increase their chances of acceptance into this competitive program. Practica, internships, and volunteer experiences working with children in the public schools prior to application to the MAT program are required.

Study Abroad

The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures strongly recommends and encourages its students to participate in any of the study abroad opportunities available through SOU or the Oregon University System (OUS). There are OUS programs in Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, and Spain. Southern Oregon University offers an exchange program with the University of Guanajuato, Mexico. For most yearlong programs, students must complete two years of study in the foreign language prior to participation.

Students may also participate in study abroad programs through the National Student Exchange program. This program allows students to participate in study abroad programs of other universities throughout the U.S. and in universities in Canada and Puerto Rico.

Credit earned for study abroad programs is transferred back to the home campus. Financial aid may be used for these programs. Students interested in these programs should consult the director of international programs or foreign languages and literatures faculty.

French Courses

See Course Prerequisites Policy

Lower Division Courses

FR 101, 102, 103 Beginning French Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach a minimum of novice high proficiency and introduces them to the cultural differences of French speakers. Materials include texts, CDs, videotapes, films, and elementary cultural and literary readings. Closed to native speakers of French. Prerequisite for FR 101: SOU French Placement Level 1. Prerequisite for FR 102: SOU French Placement Level 2 or FR 101.

FR 106, 107, 108 Beginning French Conversation

1 credit each

Involves oral practice of materials studied in Beginning French. Graded P/NP only. Closed to native speakers of French. Corequisite: Beginning French Language and Culture.

FR 199 Special Studies

Credits to be arranged

FR 201, 202, 203 Intermediate French Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach a minimum of intermediate mid language proficiency, to compare cultural ideas, and to analyze issues, problems, and practices of the native and target language groups. Students are required to communicate in French on topics ranging from everyday life, family, and work to political, economic, and social questions affecting culture. Materials include literary and cultural texts, audiotapes, videotapes, films, art, and performances. Closed to native speakers of French. Approved for University Studies (Explorations (FR 202 and 203 only)). Prerequisite for FR 201: SOU French Placement Level 3 or FR 101, 102, 103. Prerequisites for FR 202: SOU French Placement Level 4 and FR 201. Prerequisite for FR 203: FR 202.

FR 206, 207, 208 Intermediate French Conversation

1 credit each

Involves oral practice of materials studied in Intermediate French. Graded P/NP only. Closed to native speakers of French. Corequisite: Intermediate French Language and Culture.

FR 209 Practicum

Credits to be arranged

FR 220 Francophone Cultures of the World

4 credits

Explores non-European French-speaking cultures of the world through literature and film. Emphasizes francophone cultures of Africa, the Caribbean, and Canada, with some discussion of French-speaking cultures of Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Uses film, short stories, poetry, and cultural readings to explore the diversity of the francophone world. Taught in English. Approved for University Studies (Exporations).

Upper Division Courses

FR 301 Introduction to French Literature

4 credits

Introduces various genres in French literature through short representative works of poetry, short stories, the novel, and theatre. Emphasizes the development of reading skills as preparation for advanced literature courses. Prerequisite: Two years of college French, SOU French Placement Level 5, or FR 203.

FR 311, 312 Survey of French Literature

4 credits each

Studies selected French literature from the Middle Ages to present. Prerequisites: SOU French Placement Level 5 or FR 203 and 301.

FR 314 La France Contemporaine

4 credits

Study of contemporary French culture, emphasizing development of oral and written expression in French. Cultural topics include contemporary societal, religious, and political institutions; patterns of daily life; and customs and practices of contemporary France. Topics serve as the basis for in-class discussion and composition assignments. Taught in French. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: SOU French Placement Level 5 or FR 203 and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements.

FR 315 La Civilisation Française

4 credits

Study of the historical development of French culture and society from the beginnings through World War II. Emphasizes the influence of key historical, artistic, political, and cultural movements on contemporary French thought and society. Topics serve as the basis for in-class discussion and composition assignments. Meets the major requirements in research and writing for the French option in the language and culture major. Taught in French. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: SOU French Placement Level 5 or FR 203 and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements.

FR 330 Intermediate/Advance Oral Proficiency

4 credits (maximum 8 credits)

Designed to improve speaking proficiency in standard French. Helps students move from the intermediate to advanced speaking level on the ACTFL proficiency scale using numerous electronic sources and regular individual oral discussions and interviews. Focuses on developing advanced oral skills of narrating and describing in all time frames, talking about current events and topics of interest, and speaking in paragraph-level language. May be repeated for credit.

FR 331 French Pronunciation and Phonetics

4 credits

Offers a thorough study of the fundamentals of French pronunciation and phonetics. Focuses on corrective phonetics to improve individual student pronunciation. Prerequisite: SOU French Placement Level 5 or FR 201.

FR 350 Topics in French Film

4 credits

Examines selected topics in French cinema, focusing on insights into French culture as seen through film. Recent topics include Masterpieces of French Film, French Film and Cultural Identity, French Film and Society, and Feminine Images in French Film. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis). Prerequisites: SOU French Placement Level 5 or FR 203; completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. (Cross-listed with FLM 350.)

FR 399 Special Studies

Credits to be arranged

FR 403/503 Thesis

Credits to be arranged

FR 405/505 Reading and Conference

Credits to be arranged

FR 406 Community-Based Work Experience

1 to 4 credits

A practicum work experience in local businesses, schools, or other agencies where French is required. Carried out in French and overseen by a faculty member. The work experience includes work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation.

FR 407/507 Seminar

Credits to be arranged

FR 408 International Internship

1 to 12 credits

French language internship in a discipline of the student’s area of interest, such as business, humanities, science, or social science. Internships are in French-speaking countries.

FR 409/509 Practicum

Credits to be arranged

FR 426/526 Topics in French Literature

4 credits

Examines literary texts reflecting the development of a genre or a specific topic in a given age. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisites: FR 311, 312.

FR 427/527 Noncontinental Francophone Literature

4 credits

Explores Francophone literature by authors originating from countries other than France. Representative works selected from African, Canadian, Caribbean, Indochinese, or Latin American literature. Conducted in French. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisite: FR 311 or 312 and completion of all lower division Univeristy Studies requirements.

FR 428/528 Topics in French Culture

4 credits

Addresses selected topics in French culture that have significantly influenced French thought or contemporary French society. Topics may include social, political, artistic, or historical movements; contemporary lifestyles and customs; and issues of current interest in the French-speaking world. Taught in French. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisites: FR 314, 315, 316.

FR 430/530 Advanced/Superior Oral Proficiency

4 credits (maximum 8 credits)

Designed to improve speaking proficiency in standard French. Helps students move from the advanced to superior speaking level on the ACTFL proficiency scale using numerous electronic sources and regular individual oral discussions and interviews. Focuses on developing superior-level oral skills of stating and defending opinions, speaking in the abstract, and hypothesizing in extended discourse while strengthening the advanced skills of describing in all time frames, and talking about current events and topics of interest. May be repeated for credit.

FR 445/545 Advanced French Grammar

4 credits

Offers an intensive review of French grammar. Focuses on common problem areas. Conducted in French. Prerequisites: FR 201, 202, 203.

FR 450 Topics in French Film

4 credits

Examines selected topics in French cinema, focusing on insights into French culture as seen through film. Recent topics include Masterpieces of French Film, French Film and Cultural Identity, French Film and Society, and Feminine Images in French Film. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis). Prerequisites: FR 315 or instructor consent.

FR 460/560 Translation

4 credits

Studies the problems of translating literary and nonliterary texts from French into English and English into French. Involves some work on simultaneous oral translation. Prerequisites: FR 314, 315, 316.

FR 490 Research and Writing Capstone

2 to 4 credits

Senior capstone. Designed to be the culminating project of the major for both Options A and B. Students create a research project in consultation with a faculty member. The capstone reflects the student’s personal interests and career goals and may be linked to a work internship with advisor approval. The project results in an analytical research paper and bibliography written in French. Capstones may be in the areas of language, literature, or culture. Students deliver an oral presentation of the project in French to foreign languages and literatures faculty. Prerequisites: Senior standing in the major and FR 314, 315, 316.

Foreign Language Courses

See Course Prerequisites Policy

Graduate Courses

FL 511 Second Language Acquisition Theory and Practice

3 credits

Provides students with an overview of the most current theories of second language acquisition and the teaching methodologies that result from these approaches. Students will detail differences between and similarities among the various models of second language acquisition as they learn how to identify and integrate them into the foreign language classroom.

FL 512 Teaching for Proficiency: Methods and Strategies

3 credits

Explores how proficiency standards can be applied in the classroom in conjunction with state and local standards based on the national standards for foreign language education as established by the American Council on Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). Students learn how to integrate the five Cs of foreign language education: communication, cultures, connections, comparisons, and communities, with clearly defined proficiency standards for foreign language performance.

FL 513 Foreign Language Assessment: Principles and Strategies

3 credits

Explores the many ways to assess foreign language proficiency. Compares traditional testing measures with more recent performance-based assessment methods and portfolio assessment models. Students study various assessment instruments and resources, as well as learning how to integrate assessment practices with foreign language standards.

FL 514 Action Research

3 credits

Introduces students to research methodologies that pursue action (change) and research (understanding) concurrently. Students will learn how to do a systematic inquiry into the teaching/learning environment of a classroom with the goal of developing reflective teaching practices. This course is intended as preparation for an action research project that students will conduct over the course of the following year.

FL 515 Technology in the Classroom

3 credits

Transforms knowledge into practice about Second Language Acquisition (SLA) and pedagogy, while focusing on the use of technology in the foreign language classroom. Fosters professional development as students formulate critical skills for creating, integrating, and assessing technology into the classroom. Topics may include interactive and non-interactive hypermedia technologies, Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL), language testing and technology, distance learning, online discussions, and software selection.

German Courses

See Course Prerequisites Policy

Lower Division Courses

GL 101, 102, 103 Beginning German Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach at least novice high proficiency and introduces them to the cultural differences of German speakers. Materials include texts, audiotapes, videotapes, films, and elementary cultural and literary readings. Closed to native speakers of German.

GL 199 Special Studies

Credits to be arranged

GL 201, 202, 203 Intermediate German Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach intermediate mid-language proficiency, to compare cultural ideas, and to analyze issues, problems, and practices of the native and target language groups. Students are required to communicate in German on topics ranging from everyday life, family, and work to political, economic, and social questions affecting culture. Materials include literary and cultural texts, audiotapes, videotapes, films, art, and performances. Closed to native speakers of German. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisites: GL 101, 102, and 103.

GL 209 Practicum

Credits to be arranged

Upper Division Courses

GL 301, 302, 303 German Culture, Conversation, and Composition

4 credits each

Offers a German studies approach to German language fluency. Incorporates writing, conversation, literature, culture, and history. Prerequisite for 400-level courses. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration).

GL 308 German Trailer Course

1 to 2 credits

Taught in German as a trailer to a course in another department (e.g., history, art, music, business, sociology, or women’s studies). Involves readings and discussions in German on topics relevant to the main course. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: GL 203.

GL 399 Special Studies

Credits to be arranged

GL 401/501 Research

Credits to be arranged

GL 403/503 Thesis

Credits to be arranged

GL 405/505 Reading and Conference

Credits to be arranged

GL 406 Community-Based Work Experience

1 to 4 credits

A practicum work experience in local businesses, schools, or other agencies where German is required. The work experience is carried out in German and overseen by a faculty member. The work experience includes work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation.

GL 407/507 Seminar

Credits to be arranged

GL 408/508 International Internship

Credits to be arranged

Offers summer work opportunities at German and Swiss businesses to qualified students. Provides practical experience in a German language environment. Prerequisites: GL 301, 302, 303, and instructor consent.

GL 409 Practicum

Credits to be arranged

GL 413 Major Figures in German Literature

4 credits

Introduces significant forms, trends, and major figures, with an emphasis on twentieth-century writers. Taught in German. May be repeated for credit when content changes. Prerequisites: GL 301, 302, 303.

GL 415 Topics in German Film

4 credits

Focuses on the political, historical, and cultural developments of the twentieth century as seen through films. Taught in German. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisites: GL 301, 302, 303.

GL 440 Germany 1845–1945: Germany’s Search for Unity

4 credits

Examines the sociohistorical, political, economic, and artistic development of Germany in its search for nationhood. Taught in German. Prerequisites: GL 301, 302, 303.

GL 441 Germany 1945–1990: From Division to Unity

4 credits

Explores the sociohistorical, political, economic, and artistic development of postwar Germany in its search for self-determination and unity. Taught in German. Prerequisites: GL 301, 302, 303.

GL 490 Research and Writing Capstone

2 to 4 credits

Senior capstone. Designed to be the culminating project of the major for both options A and B. Students create a research project in consultation with a faculty member. The capstone project reflects the student’s personal interests and career goals and may be linked to a work internship with advisor approval. The project results in an analytical research paper and bibliography written in German. Capstones may be in the areas of language, literature, or culture. Students deliver an oral presentation of the project in German to foreign languages and literatures faculty. Prerequisites: Senior standing in the major and GL 301, 302, 303.

Japanese Courses

See Course Prerequisites Policy

Lower Division Courses

JPN 101, 102, 103 Beginning Japanese Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach at least novice mid proficiency and introduces them to the cultural differences of Japanese speakers. Materials include texts, audiotapes, videotapes, films, and elementary cultural and literary readings. Closed to native speakers of Japanese. Requires some work with Japanese characters.

JPN 106, 107, 108 Beginning Japanese Conversation

1 credit each

Involves oral practice and conversation for students in Beginning Japanese. Graded P/NP only. Closed to native and advanced speakers of Japanese. Corequisite: Beginning Japanese Language and Culture.

JPN 199 Special Studies

1 to 4 credits

JPN 201, 202, 203 Intermediate Japanese Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach at least intermediate low language proficiency; to compare cultural ideas; and to analyze issues, problems, and practices of the native and target language groups. Students are required to communicate in Japanese on topics ranging from everyday life, family, and work to political, economic, and social questions affecting culture. Materials include literary and cultural texts, audiotapes, videotapes, films, art, and performances. Continues work with Japanese characters. Closed to native speakers of Japanese. Prerequisites: JPN 101, 102, 103.

JPN 206, 207, 208 Intermediate Japanese Conversation

1 credit each

Involves oral practice and conversation for students in Intermediate Japanese. Graded P/NP only. Closed to native or advanced speakers of Japanese. Corequisite: Intermediate Japanese Language and Culture.

JPN 209 Practicum

1 to 4 credits

Upper Division Courses

JPN 409 Practicum

1 to 4 credits

Spanish Courses

See Course Prerequisites Policy

Lower Division Courses

SPAN 101, 102, 103 Beginning Spanish Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach at least novice high proficiency and introduces them to the cultural differences of Spanish speakers. Materials include texts, CDs, videotapes, films, and elementary cultural and literary readings. Closed to native speakers of Spanish. Prerequisite for SPAN 101: SOU Spanish Placement Level 1. Prerequisite for SPAN 102: SOU Spanish Placement Level 2 or SPAN 101. Prerequisite for SPAN 103: SOU Spanish Placement Level 3 or SPAN 102.

SPAN 111, 112 Beginning Spanish Review

4 credits each

Serves as a review of first-year Spanish for students who have studied the language for two or more years in high school but who are not, based on the results of the Foreign Language Placement Test, prepared for Intermediate Spanish. Coursework includes activities for oral and written communication and comprehension, as well as cultural readings and understanding. Closed to students with prior college credit in Spanish. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement score or foreign languages and literatures faculty recommendation. Prerequisite for SPAN 111: SOU Spanish Placement Level 2 or SPAN 101. Prerequisite for SPAN 112: SPAN 111.

SPAN 199 Special Studies

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 201, 202, 203 Intermediate Spanish Language and Culture I, II, III

4 credits each

Enables students to reach intermediate mid language proficiency; to compare cultural ideas; and to analyze issues, problems, and practices of the native and target language groups. Students are required to communicate in Spanish on topics ranging from everyday life, family, and work to political, economic, and social questions affecting culture. Materials include literary and cultural texts, audiotapes, videotapes, films, art, and performances. Closed to native speakers of Spanish. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisite for SPAN 201: SOU Spanish Placement Level 4, SPAN 103, or SPAN 112. Prerequisite for SPAN 202: SOU Spanish Placement Level 5 or SPAN 201. Prerequisite for SPAN 203: SOU Spanish Placement Level 6 or SPAN 202.

SPAN 209 Practicum

Credits to be arranged

Upper Division Courses

SPAN 301 Introduction to Reading Hispanic Literature

4 credits

Introduction to reading and analysis of literary texts written in Spanish. Emphasizes developing reading skills, with continued attention to speaking, writing, comprehension, and cultural content. Secondary emphasis is on literary forms (novel, short story, poem, play). Designed for intermediate low to mid speakers. Provides transitional reading experience prior to entering study abroad programs or upper division literature courses. Closed to students who have completed SPAN 322 or 323. Concurrent enrollment in SPAN 203 is recommended. Prerequisites: SPAN 201, 202.

SPAN 310, 311, 312 Hispanic Culture, Composition, and Conversation

4 credits each

Designed to promote an understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures and societies, with emphasis on the development of oral and written expression. Cultural topics may include historical influences on contemporary culture; art and media; and societal, religious, and political institutions. Topics may serve as the basis for in-class discussion and written assignments. Course may also include discussion groups outside of class. Students practice the fundamentals of composition by writing in a variety of formats, including descriptions, summaries, expository writing, narration, and research papers. Students are expected to enter SPAN 310 at or above the intermediate mid level of proficiency (as defined by ACTFL Guidelines) in receptive and productive skills. They should exit the 312 course at or above the intermediate high level. Taught in Spanish. Must be taken in sequence. SPAN 301 (Introduction to Reading Hispanic Literature) is strongly recommended prior to enrollment in SPAN 310. Prerequisite for SPAN 310: SOU Spanish Placement Level 7 or SPAN 203. Prerequisite for SPAN 311: SPAN 310. Prerequisite for SPAN 312: SPAN 311.

SPAN 315 Spanish Grammar Review

4 credits

Offers intermediate-level students an overview of Spanish grammar, with an emphasis on common problem areas for English speakers. Includes theoretical explanations and extensive practice. Prepares students for the advanced work expected in upper division courses in Spanish language and literature. Concurrent enrollment in SPAN 310 recommended. Prerequisite: SOU Spanish Placement Level 7 or SPAN 203.

SPAN 320 Topics in Hispanic Film

4 credits

Examines selected topics in Hispanic cinema, focusing on insights into cultures, history, and film production and practices in Hispanic countries, with additional emphases on film theory, form in film, and the major Hispanic film industries (Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and Cuba). Courses may focus on topics such as masterpieces of film, great directors, women in cinema, cultural identity, post-structuralism, or post-colonialism. Papers, presentations and discussion in Spanish. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. (Cross-listed with FLM 320.)

SPAN 322 Nineteenth-Century Hispanic Literature

4 credits

Surveys major writers and trends in the nineteenth-century literature of Spain and Spanish America. Emphasizes romanticism, costumbrismo, realism, and naturalism. Prerequisite: SOU Spanish Placement Level 7 or SPAN 301.

SPAN 323 Twentieth-Century Hispanic Literature

4 credits

Surveys major writers and trends in the twentieth-century literature of Spain and Spanish America. Emphasizes the Generation of 1898, modernism, surrealism, and postmodernism. Prerequisite: SOU Spanish Placement Level 7 or SPAN 301.

SPAN 331 Spanish Phonetics/Phonology

4 credits

Offers a thorough study of the fundamentals of Spanish pronunciation and phonetics. Focuses on phonology and corrective phonetics to improve individual pronunciation. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: SPAN 311.

SPAN 399 Special Studies

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 405/505 Reading and Conference

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 406 Community-Based Work Experience

1 to 4 credits

A practicum work experience in local or foreign businesses, schools, or other agencies where Spanish is required. Carried out in Spanish and overseen by a faculty member. The work experience includes work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation.

SPAN 407/507 Seminar

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 408 International Internship

6 to 15 credits

Work internship in a Spanish-speaking country. Students work at schools, businesses, social services, or other institutions. Students file a statement of work and learning objectives with their academic supervisor, write reports, and secure written evaluations from their work supervisor. Prerequisites: Demonstrated advanced language proficiency and SPAN 310, 311, 312.

SPAN 409/509 Practicum

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 412 Advanced Composition, Conversation, and Culture

4 credits

Designed for heritage speakers of Spanish or advanced students with substantial experience abroad. Students examine the diversity of Hispanic cultures while improving their written and oral proficiency in the language. Cultural topics serve as the basis for in-class discussion and written assignments. Taught in Spanish.

SPAN 421/521 Selected Genre or Period Studies

4 credits

Selected topics addressing theoretical, literary, and aesthetic issues of a designated genre or period of Spanish or Hispano-American literature. All activities conducted in Spanish. Repeat credit is allowed for varying topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 322, 323.

SPAN 422/522 Major Literary Figures

3 to 4 credits

Involves reading and analysis of outstanding works by an author or group of authors from Spain or Hispano-America. All activities conducted in Spanish. Repeat credit is allowed for varying topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 322, 323.

SPAN 425/525 Topics in Contemporary Hispanic Literature and Society

3 to 4 credits for each topic (all credits for a topic must be from a single course)

Explores selected topics addressing the nature and complexity of thought, aesthetics, and social reality in a period of twentieth-century Spanish or Hispano-American history, as exemplified by a particular group of literary and nonliterary texts. All activities conducted in Spanish. Repeat credit is allowed for varying topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 322, 323.

SPAN 441/541 Topics in Hispanic Culture

3 to 4 credits for each topic (all credits for a topic must be from a single course)

Explores selected topics addressing basic cultural differences in the Hispanic world. Examines cultural constructs as they relate to institutions, artistic forms, customs, and beliefs. All activities conducted in Spanish. Repeat credit is allowed for varying topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 311, 312.

SPAN 481/581 Topics in Theoretical and Applied Spanish Linguistics

3 to 4 credits for each topic (all credits for a topic must be from a single course)

Explores selected topics in the four dimensions of language: phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. All activities conducted in Spanish. Repeat credit is allowed for varying topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 311, 312.

SPAN 482/582 Topics in Writing and Translation

3 to 4 credits for each topic (all credits for a topic must be from a single course)

Explores selected topics in the practical applications of linguistic principles through writing and translation. Repeat credit is allowed for varying topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 311, 312.

SPAN 490 Capstone

4 credits

Senior capstone. Students design an independent research project in consultation with a faculty member. The capstone reflects the student’s personal interests and career goals and may be linked to a work internship with advisor approval. The project results in an analytical research paper and bibliography written in Spanish. Capstones may be in the areas of language, linguistics, or culture. Students deliver an oral presentation of the project in Spanish to foreign languages and literatures faculty. Prerequisites: Senior standing in the major, SPAN 312, SPAN 322 or 323, and SPAN 481 or 482.

SPAN 498 Capstone: Research and Writing Seminar

4 credits

Designed to be the culminating project of the major for both Options A and B and is normally taken the term before graduation. Emphasizes three processes: 1) creating a capstone essay by polishing and expanding the analytical content of a term paper from a 400-level Spanish course; 2) expanding the scholarly investigation and creating an annotated bibliography; and 3) presenting orally the final research to University faculty. All work in Spanish. Prerequisites: Senior standing and successful completion of at least two 400-level Spanish courses.

Graduate Courses (Spanish)

SPAN 501 Research

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 503 Thesis

Credits to be arranged

SPAN 506 Advanced Spanish Conversation

1 credit

Designed to improve Spanish conversational skills. Students will learn about and discuss a wide variety of current topics, including historical influences on contemporary culture; art and media; and societal, religious, and political institutions. This course may be taken for repeat credit. Up to 3 credits may be applied to degree requirements.

SPAN 516 Topics in Spanish Language Pedagogy

3 credits

Designed as a teaching praxis companion course to other courses on Spanish language, culture, and literature, this course addresses issues of how to teach newly acquired subject matter from the corresponding courses in the foreign language classroom. Must be repeated for credit with each of the foreign language/culture courses.

SPAN 520 Topics in Spanish or Latin American Film

3 credits

Offers an in-depth study of selected topics in Hispanic cinema, focusing on insights into cultures, history, or film production and practices in Hispanic countries. Emphasizes film theory, form in film, and film industries. Topics include masterpieces of film, directors, women in cinema, cultural identity, post-structuralism, post-colonialism, and other recent cultural topics. Repeat credit is allowed for different topics.

SPAN 532 Communicative Grammar

3 credits

Addresses problem areas of Spanish grammar as they pertain to English speakers with an intermediate to advanced level of Spanish proficiency. Contextualizes grammar through a focus on authentic discourse and the communicative value of each grammatical function, as well as providing theoretical explanations and extensive practice.

Summer Language Institute for Teachers

The structure of this master’s degree program (Master of Arts and Letters) follows the guidelines set by the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and the chair of the Foreign Languages and Literatures Department. Candidates must be admitted graduate students at SOU.

For general information about the graduate program, please consult the Graduate Studies section. The Summer Language Institute offers the opportunity for middle school, high school, and community college Spanish teachers to earn a master’s degree over the course of three years. Each summer, students can earn 16 to 18 credits in two 3-week Summer Sessions. Every other summer, the program will be held at the Universidad de Guanajuato, Mexico. Completion of the master’s degree program requires a total of 45 graduate-level credits. Up to 9 credits may be from related graduate-level coursework.

Major Department (Foreign Languages and Literatures)

Select 36–45 credits in graduate-level Summer Language Institute courses:

Core Courses (15 credits total):

Second Language Acquisition Theory and Practice (FL 511)	3
Teaching for Proficiency: Methods and Strategies (FL 512)	3
Foreign Language Assessment: Principles and Strategies (FL 513)	3
Action Research (FL 514)	3
Technology in the Classroom (FL 515)	3

Elective Courses: Language and Culture (21–30 credits):

Advanced Spanish Conversation (SPAN 506)	1
Topics in Spanish Language Pedagogy (SPAN 516)	3
Topics in Spanish or Latin American Film (SPAN 520)	3
Topics in Contemporary Hispanic Literature and Society (SPAN 525)	3
Communicative Grammar (SPAN 532)	3
Topics in Hispanic Culture (SPAN 541)	3
Topics in Theoretical and Applied Spanish Linguistics (SPAN 581)	3
Topics in Writing and Translation (SPAN 582)	3
Related graduate-level coursework	9
Total credits	45

Admission

Students must submit a resumé, two letters of reference that address teaching and language experience, a statement of educational philosophy, and unofficial transcripts. In addition, to demonstrate Spanish language proficiency, students must obtain a copy of an ACTFL-certified oral proficiency interview rating or a five-to seven-minute recording with the following elements: Describe yourself and your language background and describe in detail a unique or memorable experience you had while living or traveling abroad.

Classes

All courses offered under the SOU Center for Language Studies Summer Language Institute are required over three summers. The curriculum includes required coursework before and after the three-week residency period.

Coursework is broken down into five 3-credit core courses (FL) that are taught in English and seven to ten language/culture courses taught in the target language (SPAN).