SP 353 - Spanish Language in Context: Independent Abroad III

n this course, students will expand their linguistic and communicative competence through the effective use of linguistic resources (grammatical, lexical, and communicative) that are provided throughout the course (see Contents). In this sphere, we pursue a triple objective: consolidate previous knowledge and facilitate its practical use; allow the students to succeed in more advanced discursive environments (for example, communicating on a more abstract and complex level to develop their skills in more difficult communicative situations) and promote the students’ oral and written fluency.

Student Profile: Students who enter this level are able to accomplish everyday needs required to live in a new culture.  In this course, students will develop independence and autonomy so that, when communication does break down, they have enough tools at their disposal to resolve these challenges on their own.  Students should welcome correction and guidance from their instructors, hosts, and others in the community as they progress. They will also begin to recognize their own and their peers’ errors.

By the end of this course, students will begin to converse at a rate of speed approaching normal conversation. They will be creative, spontaneous and self-reliant as they solve problems, interpret texts, negotiate, express their opinions, likes and dislikes in the culture. Although students will still make errors and experience communication breakdowns, they are much more likely to resolve these on their own. Students will understand a variety of colloquial expressions and slang, and will be able to understand a wider variety of native speakers from different backgrounds. By the end of this level, students will be capable of achieving the learning outcomes outlined below.