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World Languages

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

German (GERM) Courses

GERM 401 Elementary German I

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the language of the German-speaking people. It includes the fundamentals of German pronunciation and grammar, as well as the development of listening, reading, and writing with emphasis on the communicative skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • produce language that communicates information, concepts, and ideas about and in German to an audience of listeners and readers.
  • engage in conversations and written correspondence in German to provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions.
  • interpret written and spoken German on a variety of topics such as personal data, families, weather, classes, schedules, daily routine, activities, and emotions.
  • apply the grammatical rules of German and compare them to those of another language.
  • connect German language and culture to other disciplines.
  • define and examine some cultural differences.
  • integrate German language and cultural knowledge within and beyond the classroom setting.

GERM 402 Elementary German II

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:GERM 401 with a grade of "C" or better or two years of high school German
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course continues to develop proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing German. It also explores the German culture and affords opportunities to make cross-linguistic and cross-cultural comparisons.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate the four major skills of understanding, speaking, writing, and reading German.
  • analyze patterns of the German language and compare German with another language.
  • collect and evaluate information about the country, culture, and people of Germany.
  • respond appropriately to written and spoken German on a variety of topics, such as food and cooking, workplace and household, daily life at home, and transportation and travel.
  • compare various aspects of the German-speaking cultures with those of another culture.
  • connect German language and culture to other disciplines.
  • integrate German language and cultural knowledge within and beyond the classroom setting.

GERM 411 Intermediate German

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:GERM 402 with a grade of "C" or better or three years of high school German
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course, which is the third in a series of four German courses, continues to develop proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing German. It reviews German grammar and offers readings of varied texts, which further explore study of historical and cultural background of German-speaking countries and afford opportunities to make cross-linguistic and cross-cultural comparisons.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate the ability to speak and write German by means of discussions, oral reports, recitations, summaries, and compositions.
  • interpret written and spoken German on a variety of topics such as childhood, youth, vacations, health and illnesses, and multicultural society.
  • apply rules of the German language and recognize similarities and differences between German and another language.
  • describe some everyday aspects of German culture, such as vacations, family traditions, fashion, health issues, and social responsibility.
  • identify prominent examples of art, music, history, and literature from German culture.
  • compare German culture to other cultures.
  • connect German language and culture to other disciplines.
  • incorporate German language for personal enjoyment and enrichment in becoming part of the global community.

GERM 412 Intermediate German

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:GERM 411 with a grade of "C" or better or four years of high school German.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level German course provides continued development of the language and cultural awareness of the German-speaking world. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in German with emphasis on communicative skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use German at an intermediate level in written text and oral discussions and reports.
  • interpret and critically analyze short authentic texts while paying attention to the socio-political and geopolitical context in which they were produced.
  • synthesize grammatical, cultural, and thematic material to expand communicative abilities.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about German-speaking countries and cultures.
  • compare new information about the German language and culture with familiar concepts and ideas.
  • recognize distinctive viewpoints, cultural practices, and perspectives of German speakers.

GERM 495 Independent Studies in German

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

GERM 499 Experimental Offering in German

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


Italian (ITAL) Courses

ITAL 351 Conversational Italian, Elementary I

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed for students at the first-semester level in Italian. Conversations and discussions, both controlled and spontaneous, are used to develop basic conversational skills in Italian. Emphasis includes oral proficiency and development of Italian cultural awareness.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use basic conversational skills in everyday Italian.
  • apply critical thinking language skills to cultural and social situations.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about the cultures and peoples of the Italian world.

ITAL 352 Conversational Italian, Elementary II

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ITAL 351 with a grade of "C" or better or two years of high school Italian
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed for students at the second-semester level in Italian. It continues the development of oral-aural skills in Italian through conversations and discussions, both controlled and spontaneous. Emphasis includes oral proficiency and development of Italian cultural awareness.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate improved basic conversational skills in everyday Italian.
  • apply critical thinking language skills to cultural and social situations.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about the cultures and peoples of the Italian-speaking world.
  • demonstrate conversational fluency in practical situations.

ITAL 401 Elementary Italian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the Italian language and culture of Italy. It includes the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Italian with emphasis on the communicative skills, as well as the fundamentals of Italian pronunciation and grammar.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate basic information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Italian.
  • respond appropriately to written and spoken Italian on a variety of topics, such as personal data; likes and dislikes; classes, schedules, and plans for the future; and activities and emotions.
  • compare various aspects of the Italian-speaking culture to his/her own culture.
  • analyze and apply the grammatical rules of Italian and compare them with his/her native language.
  • describe some everyday aspects of the Italian-speaking culture.

ITAL 402 Elementary Italian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ITAL 401 with a grade of "C" or better; or 2 years of high school Italian.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides continued development of the language and explores history and culture of Italian society. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Italian and emphasizes communicative skills, as well as the fundamentals of Italian pronunciation and grammar. Language acquisition is approached through a historical and cultural perspective.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate basic information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Italian.
  • respond appropriately to written and spoken Italian on a variety of topics, such as discussing plans for the future, making comparisons, and talking about past events.
  • compare and contrast the nuances of Italian culture with those of the English speaking in the United States.
  • analyze and apply the grammatical rules of Italian and compare them with their own language.
  • describe everyday aspects of life in Italian culture such as typical eating habits, celebrations of family gatherings, and the use of natural remedies.

ITAL 411 Intermediate Italian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ITAL 402 with a grade of "C" or better; or 3 years of high school Italian.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level Italian course provides continued development of the language and culture of Italy. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Italian with emphasis on communicative skills. Additionally, it covers more complex grammar topics and provides further study of the cultural and historical background of Italy.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Italian.
  • apply/recognize similarities and differences between Italian and their own language.
  • interpret written and spoken Italian on a variety of topics, such as talking about past events, predicting the future, giving advice, and influencing the decisions of others.
  • describe some everyday aspects of Italian culture, such as travel, family traditions, fashion, health issues, and social responsibility.
  • recognize prominent examples of art, music, history, and literature from Italian culture.
  • compare and contrast the Italian culture as it relates to their own culture.

ITAL 412 Intermediate Italian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ITAL 411 with a grade of "C" or better; or 4 years of high school Italian.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level Italian course provides continued development of the language and culture of Italy. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Italian with emphasis on communicative skills. Additionally, it reviews and provides further study and complex grammar topics of the cultural and historical background of Italy as well as its major literary types and works.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use Italian in discussing various topics such as current events, politics, eco-tourism, traditions, technology, and pop-culture related to Italian society.
  • apply and analyze grammatical structures at an intermediate level, such as present, preterit, and imperfect tenses; present and past subjunctive; object pronouns; commands; reflexive verbs; the future and conditional forms; relative pronouns; and comparatives and superlatives.
  • produce paragraphs and compositions in Italian.
  • identify, analyze, and discuss the major literary types and works of famous authors in Italian such as Giacomo Leopardi, Natalia Ginzburg, and Dante.
  • identify and recognize the people and cultures of the diverse Italian regions such as the Greek, Etruscan, Roman and Norman civilizations.
  • discuss and review current films in Italian relative to the period of the Italian Neorealism.
  • recognize major art works from famous artists such as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Andrea Mantegna.

ITAL 495 Independent Studies in Italian

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

ITAL 499 Experimental Offering in Italian

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


Japanese (JAPAN) Courses

JAPAN 299 Experimental Offering in Japanese

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


JAPAN 495 Independent Studies in Japanese

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

JAPAN 499 Experimental Offering in Japanese

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


Mandarin (MAND) Courses

MAND 299 Experimental Offering in Mandarin

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


MAND 495 Independent Studies in Mandarin

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

MAND 499 Experimental Offering in Mandarin

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


Russian (RUSS) Courses

RUSS 401 Elementary Russian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the Russian language and culture of Russia. It includes the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Russian with emphasis on the communicative skills, as well as the fundamentals of Russian pronunciation and grammar.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate basic information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Russian.
  • engage in short conversations and written correspondence in Russian to provide and obtain information, discuss daily activities, describe one's family, politely agree and disagree with somebody's opinion, and apologize for a mistake.
  • interpret written and spoken Russian on a variety of topics, such as personal data, locations, daily schedules, activities, and emotions.
  • compare presented aspects of the Russian-speaking culture to his/her own culture.
  • analyze and apply the grammatical rules of Russian and compare them with his/her native language.
  • describe some everyday aspects of the Russian-speaking world.
  • incorporate Russian language for personal enjoyment and enrichment in becoming part of the global community.

RUSS 402 Elementary Russian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:RUSS 401 with a grade of "C" or better OR two years of high school Russian.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides continued development of the Russian language and culture. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Russian with emphasis on communicative skills, as well as the fundamentals of Russian pronunciation and grammar. Cross-linguistic and cross-cultural comparisons are emphasized.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • produce language that communicates basic information, concepts, and ideas in Russian to an audience of listeners and readers.
  • engage in basic conversations and written correspondence in Russian to provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions.
  • respond appropriately to written and spoken Russian on a variety of topics, such as discussing his/her tastes, ordering food in restaurants, describing his/her habits, and expressing ability or intention to do something.
  • analyze and apply the grammatical rules of Russian and compare them with his/her own language.
  • compare various aspects of the Russian-speaking cultures to his/her own culture.
  • describe some everyday aspects of the Russian-speaking world.
  • incorporate Russian language for personal enjoyment and enrichment in becoming part of the global community.

RUSS 411 Intermediate Russian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:RUSS 402 with a grade of "C" or better, or three years of high school Russian.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level Russian course provides continued development of the language and culture of the Russian-speaking world. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Russian with emphasis on communicative skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Russian at the intermediate level.
  • apply and recognize similarities and differences between Russian and his/her own language.
  • interpret written and spoken Russian on a variety of topics, such as talking about past and future events, expressing feelings and emotions, and agreeing and disagreeing with others.
  • describe some everyday aspects of Russian-speaking cultures, such as weather, travel, telephone conversations, making hotel arrangements, and dealing with common travel problems.
  • recognize presented examples of literature, art, and music from Russian-speaking cultures.
  • compare and contrast Russian-speaking cultures as they relate to his/her own culture.

RUSS 412 Intermediate Russian

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:RUSS 411 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.; RUSS 411 with a grade of "C" or better or 4 years of high school Russian
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level Russian course provides continued development of the language and cultural awareness of the Russian-speaking world. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Russian with emphasis on communicative skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use Russian at an intermediate level in written text and oral discussions and reports.
  • demonstrate an ability to interpret and critically analyze short authentic texts while paying attention to the socio-political and geopolitical context in which they were produced.
  • synthesize grammatical, cultural, and thematic material to expand communicative abilities.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about Russian-speaking countries and cultures.
  • recognize distinctive viewpoints, cultural practices, and perspectives of Russian speakers.

RUSS 413 Russian for Heritage Speakers I

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:RUSS 411 or Russian heritage speaker proficiency as assessed by an oral interview with the instructor in Russian.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course offers the fundamentals of spoken and written Russian for heritage speakers with different levels of Russian who want to gain literacy and improve their Russian skills. It covers the structure of the language, oral communication, spelling, and fundamentals of grammar and composition. In addition, the course introduces the student to the geography and culture of the Russian-speaking world.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate proficiency in the five skills as mandated by the competency guidelines of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL): comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and an understanding of the people and culture of Russian-speaking countries.
  • interpret and critically analyze authentic texts while paying attention to the socio-political and geopolitical context in which they were produced.
  • read Russian proficiently as found, for example, in Russian language newspapers, magazines, short stories, essays, and selections of poetry written by Russian authors.
  • synthesize grammatical, cultural, and thematic material to expand communicative abilities.
  • compose sentences and paragraphs in Russian using correct spelling, punctuation, and capitalization.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about Russian-speaking countries and cultures.
  • research and identify names of some major landmarks and regions in Russian-speaking nations, and names of persons and events of historical and cultural importance.

RUSS 415 Russian for Heritage Speakers II

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:RUSS 413 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed as a continuation of Russian 413. It offers the fundamentals of spoken and written contemporary Russian for the native speakers of Russian. It covers more advanced structures of the language, oral communication, and composition. This course focuses primarily on major literary movements and developments in the 20th century Russian literature and cinema. In addition, the course reviews problem areas of Russian grammar and introduces some advanced topics in grammar and syntax. This course is conducted in Russian.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • understand and analyze material from the press and some Russian prose and verse, showing attention to the meanings generated not only by the grammatical forms and vocabulary, but also the cultural contexts of the work, and the type(s) of discourse used.
  • comprehend normal rate speech dealing with most factual and some abstract matters.
  • produce conversations in Russian on the factual topics covered in the course with greater precision using varied grammatical patterns of enriched vocabulary.
  • employ good strategies for coping with discussions on abstract topics and featuring unfamiliar vocabulary.
  • demonstrate written ability to use complex sentence structure and coherent narration in Russian.
  • incorporate Russian language for personal enjoyment and enrichment in becoming part of the global community.

RUSS 495 Independent Studies in Russian

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

RUSS 499 Experimental Offering in Russian

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


Spanish (SPAN) Courses

SPAN 131 Elementary Spanish Lab I

  • Units:0.5 - 1
  • Hours:27 - 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Concurrent enrollment in SPAN 401.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This laboratory course enables Spanish language learners to develop, expand, and reinforce multiple Spanish language skills while working independently and/or in small groups. Coursework includes integrated study topics related to vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening, and oral skills covered in first semester Spanish courses. Students may register until the sixth week of the semester. This course may be taken up to 2 times, for a total of 1.0 unit, using different topics. Pass/No Pass only.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze basic grammatical structures at the sentence and paragraph level.
  • demonstrate comprehension of basic reading passages and aural communication.
  • synthesize vocabulary, grammar, and syntax in basic written and oral production.
  • compare various aspects of the Spanish-speaking cultures to his/her own culture.
  • practice basic vocabulary and grammar in Spanish on a variety of topics, such as personal data; likes and dislikes; classes, schedules, and plans for the future; daily routine; shopping and activities; and emotions.
  • describe some everyday aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures, such as greetings, the common use of two last names, typical family customs, and typical eating habits.

SPAN 132 Elementary Spanish Lab II

  • Units:0.5 - 1
  • Hours:27 - 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:SPAN 131, or concurrent enrollment in SPAN 402.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This laboratory course enables Spanish language learners to continue developing, expanding, and reinforcing multiple Spanish language skills while working independently and/or in small groups. Coursework includes integrated study topics related to vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening, and oral skills covered in second semester Spanish courses.
Students may register until the sixth week of the semester. This course may be taken up to two times for a total of 1.0 unit, using different topics. Pass/No Pass only.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze elementary grammatical structures at the sentence and paragraph level.
  • demonstrate comprehension of elementary reading passages and aural communication.
  • synthesize vocabulary, grammar, and syntax in elementary written and oral production.
  • compare various aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures to his/her own culture.
  • practice vocabulary and grammar in Spanish on a variety of topics, such as daily routine, past activities, and family gatherings.
  • describe aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures such as foods, typical shopping habits, and celebrations.

SPAN 133 Intermediate Spanish Lab I

  • Units:0.5 - 1
  • Hours:27 - 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:SPAN 132 or concurrent enrollment in SPAN 411.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This laboratory course enables Spanish learners to develop, expand, and reinforce multiple Spanish language skills while working independently and/or in small groups. Coursework includes integrated study topics related to vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening, and oral skills covered in third semester Spanish courses. Students may register until the sixth week of the semester. This course may be taken up to 2 times, for a total of 1.0 unit, using different topics. Pass/No Pass only.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze intermediate grammatical structures at the sentence and paragraph level.
  • demonstrate comprehension of intermediate reading passages and aural communication.
  • practice intermediate vocabulary and grammar in Spanish on a variety of topics, such as telling stories, giving formal and informal commands, predicting the future, giving advice, and influencing the decisions of others.

SPAN 299 Experimental Offering in Spanish

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.


SPAN 351 Conversational Spanish, Elementary

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It includes the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills. Class discussions and group interaction, both controlled and spontaneous, are used to develop basic conversational skills in Spanish.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use basic conversational skills in everyday Spanish.
  • apply critical thinking language skills to cultural and social situations.
  • produce language that communicates information, concepts, and ideas about and in Spanish to an audience of listeners and readers.
  • engage in conversations in Spanish to provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about the cultures and peoples of the Spanish-speaking world.

SPAN 352 Conversational Spanish, Elementary

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 351 OR SPAN 401 with a grade of "C" or better or two years of high school Spanish.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is for students at the second-semester level in Spanish. It includes the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills. Class discussions and group interaction, both controlled and spontaneous, are used to develop basic conversational skills in Spanish. Emphasis includes oral proficiency and development of Hispanic cultural awareness.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use basic conversational skills in everyday Spanish.
  • apply critical thinking language skills to cultural and social situations.
  • produce language that communicates information, concepts, and ideas about and in Spanish to an audience of listeners and readers.
  • engage in conversations in Spanish to provide and obtain information on a variety of topics such as professions and professional plans; dates and weather; past activities; residence, chores, and leisure activities; likes, dislikes, and interests; and special occasions.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about the cultures and peoples of the Spanish-speaking world.

SPAN 361 Conversational Spanish, Intermediate

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 352 OR SPAN 402 with a grade of "C" or better, or three years of high school Spanish.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed for students at the third-semester level in Spanish. It includes the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills. Discussions and group interaction, both controlled and spontaneous, are used to develop basic conversational skills in Spanish. Emphasis includes oral proficiency and development of Hispanic cultural awareness.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use intermediate conversational skills in everyday Spanish.
  • apply critical thinking language skills to cultural and social situations.
  • produce language that communicates information, concepts, and ideas about and in Spanish to an audience of listeners and readers.
  • engage in conversations in Spanish to provide and obtain information on a variety of topics such as body parts and health, road-related vocabulary, childhood memories and activities, and future plans.
  • compare various aspects of the Spanish-speaking cultures as they compare to his/her own culture.
  • collect, analyze, evaluate, and apply information about cultures and peoples of the Spanish-speaking world.

SPAN 362 Conversational Spanish, Intermediate

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 361 OR Spanish 411 with a grade of "C" or better or 4 years high school Spanish
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It continues the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills. Discussions and group interaction, both controlled and spontaneous, are used to develop conversational skills in Spanish.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate intermediate conversational skills in everyday Spanish.
  • demonstrate awareness of linguistic differences and similarities.
  • engage in conversations in Spanish to provide and obtain information on a variety of current topics related to current events, short films, social issues and popular culture in the Spanish speaking world.
  • apply critical thinking language skills to cultural and social situations.
  • produce language that communicates information, concepts, and ideas about and in Spanish to an audience of listeners and readers.
  • compare various aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures as they compare to their own culture.

SPAN 401 Elementary Spanish I

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 6
  • C-ID:C-ID SPAN 100
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It includes the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish with emphasis on the communicative skills, as well as the fundamentals of Spanish pronunciation and grammar.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate basic information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Spanish.
  • respond appropriately to written and spoken Spanish on a variety of topics, such as personal data; likes and dislikes; classes, schedules, and plans for the future; and activities and emotions.
  • compare various aspects of the Spanish-speaking cultures to their own culture.
  • analyze and apply the grammatical rules of Spanish and compare them to their own language.
  • describe some everyday aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures, such as greetings, the common use of two family names (surnames), and typical family customs.

SPAN 402 Elementary Spanish II

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 401 with a grade of "C" or better or two years of high school Spanish.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • C-ID:C-ID SPAN 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides continued development of the language and explores history and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills, as well as the fundamentals of Spanish pronunciation and grammar. Language acquisition is approached through a historical and cultural perspective.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate basic information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Spanish.
  • respond appropriately to written and spoken Spanish on a variety of topics, such as discussing plans for the future, making comparisons, and talking about past events.
  • compare and contrast the nuances of Spanish speaking cultures with those of the English speaking in the United States.
  • analyze and apply the grammatical rules of Spanish and compare them with their own language.
  • describe everyday aspects of life in Spanish-speaking cultures such as typical eating habits, celebrations and family gatherings, and the use of natural remedies.

SPAN 411 Intermediate Spanish

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 402 with a grade of "C" or better OR three years of high school Spanish.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • C-ID:C-ID SPAN 200
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level Spanish course provides continued development of the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills. Additionally, it covers more complex grammar topics and provides further study of the cultural and historical background of Spanish-speaking countries.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • communicate information, concepts, and ideas in written and spoken Spanish.
  • apply/recognize similarities and differences between Spanish and his/her own language.
  • interpret written and spoken Spanish on a variety of topics, such as talking about past events, predicting the future, giving advice, and influencing the decisions of others.
  • describe some everyday aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures, such as travel, family traditions, fashion, health issues, and social responsibility.
  • recognize prominent examples of art, music, history, and literature from Spanish-speaking cultures.
  • compare and contrast Spanish-speaking cultures as they relate to his/her own culture.

SPAN 412 Intermediate Spanish

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 411 with a grade of "C" or better or 4 years of high school Spanish
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • C-ID:C-ID SPAN 210
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This intermediate-level Spanish course provides continued development of the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It includes further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Spanish with emphasis on communicative skills. Additionally, it reviews and provides further study and complex grammar topics of the cultural and historical background of Spanish-speaking countries as well as their major literary types and works.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use Spanish in discussing various topics such as current events, politics, eco-tourism, traditions, technology, and pop-culture related to the Spanish-speaking world.
  • apply and analyze grammatical structures at an intermediate level, such as present, preterit, and imperfect tenses; present and past subjunctive; object pronouns; commands; reflexive verbs; the future and conditional forms; relative pronouns; and comparatives and superlatives.
  • produce paragraphs and compositions in Spanish.
  • identify, analyze, and discuss the major literary types and works of famous authors in Spanish such as Pablo Neruda, José Emilio Pacheco, and Augusto Monterroso.
  • identify and recognize the people and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world such as the Mayan and Amazonian civilizations.
  • discuss and review current short films in Spanish from Argentina, Mexico, Spain, and Venezuela.
  • recognize major art works from famous artists such as Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Mauricio Puente.

SPAN 413 Spanish for Native Speakers I

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:Spanish native speaker proficiency or the equivalent intermediate level as assessed by the Foreign Language Department Assessment Process at American River College.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • C-ID:C-ID SPAN 220
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course offers the fundamentals of spoken and written Spanish for the native speaker of Spanish. It covers the structure of the language, oral communication, fundamentals of grammar and composition. It focuses primarily on tenses in the indicative mode. This course also covers diacritical marks, like the accent mark, and their uses. In addition, it introduces the student to the geography and culture of the Spanish speaking world. This course is conducted entirely in Spanish.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate proficiency in the skills as mandated by the competency guidelines of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL): comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing.
  • utilize correct grammatical structures of standard Spanish, including verb tenses, direct object, indirect object, and reflexive pronouns.
  • write sentences in Spanish using correct punctuation, capitalization, and diacritical marks.
  • demonstrate critical thinking in written and oral language in Spanish.
  • read Spanish proficiently as found, for example, in Spanish language newspapers, magazines, short stories, essays, and selections of poetry written by Spanish, Spanish-American, and Chicano authors.
  • demonstrate an awareness of cultural events, traditions, geography, and history in Spanish speaking nations and among the Spanish speaking population of the United States.
  • identify which verb forms and vocabulary words belong to standard Spanish, colloquial Spanish, and local colloquial Spanish, influenced in lexicon and syntax by the English language and common to heritage Spanish learners.
  • demonstrate proficiency in the understanding of the people and culture of the Spanish-speaking countries as mandated by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

SPAN 415 Spanish for Native Speakers II

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 413 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B; IGETC Area 6
  • C-ID:C-ID SPAN 230
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a continuation of Spanish 413. It offers the fundamentals of spoken and written Spanish for the native speaker of Spanish. It covers the structure of the language, oral communication, fundamentals of grammar and composition. Focus is placed primarily on the conditional and subjunctive forms, the future tense, and the compound tenses. The course also covers diacritical marks, like the accent mark, and their uses. In addition, the course introduces the student to the geography and culture of the Spanish speaking world. This course is conducted in Spanish.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and utilize correct advanced grammar in Spanish to communicate in complex situations about topics beyond immediate and personal needs.
  • read and discuss a variety of written works in Spanish.
  • analyze, compare and contrast different Spanish speaking countries' cultures, customs, historical development, geography, contributions, and challenges.
  • produce sentences, paragraphs, and essays in Spanish using correct grammar, diacritical marks, punctuation, and capitalization.
  • identify and differentiate which verb forms and vocabulary words belong to standard Spanish, colloquial Spanish, and local colloquial Spanish, influenced in lexicon and syntax by the English language and common to Spanish speakers with no formal education in the language.

SPAN 427 Introduction to Spanish American Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SPAN 411 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to Spanish and Latin American Literature. It covers the analysis of a variety of literary formats that include short stories, poems, plays, and novel excerpts from the established literary canon. Films are integrated to develop auditory skills and to engage students in discussions. It emphasizes critical thinking, interpretation, speaking, and writing skills, and is conducted entirely in Spanish.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and analyze a variety of literary genres through the writings of representative Spanish and Latin American authors such as Pablo Neruda, Julio Cortázar, Benito Pérez Galdós, and Federico García Lorca.
  • write analytically and critically about assigned readings in poetry, drama, and narrative and essay, demonstrating level-appropriate writing and composition skills.
  • review and debate a variety of films based on different literary works, and discuss their relationship to Spanish and Latin American culture and society.
  • use Spanish to discuss and critique 1) literary works within their historical context 2) the relationship between society and Spanish and Latin American literature.
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the culture, geography, literature, and history of Spanish-speaking countries.
  • utilize a complex and varied vocabulary appropriate for an intermediate Spanish course to participate in full conversations on general topics.

SPAN 495 Independent Studies in Spanish

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

SPAN 499 Experimental Offering in Spanish

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.