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2008 - 2009 Catalog
Foreign Languages and Literatures
Churchill 250
541-552-6435
Daniel Morris, Coordinator
The foreign languages and literatures program is part of the Department of Language, Literature, and Philosophy. Foreign languages and literatures offers courses in Spanish, French, German, and Japanese and degree options in French, Spanish, and German. Foreign language courses range from beginning language instruction to the study of literature, linguistics, and culture at the graduate level.
Spanish and French offer a major in either a standard curriculum or an accelerated program (See Special Programs). French, German, and Spanish each offer coursework leading to a minor. Japanese language instruction is offered through the intermediate level.
In Spanish, the SOU Center for Language Studies offers an intensive summer language program leading to a master of arts in Spanish Language Teaching for teachers of high school Spanish through the SOU Summer Language Institute in Guanajuato, Mexico.
After earning a bachelor’s degree, students may earn a basic teaching license in French, German, or Spanish at the secondary level through the School of Education’s Master of Arts in Teaching. Graduate and undergraduate coursework supporting this interdisciplinary master’s degree in education is offered in French and Spanish.
Degrees
BA in Language and Culture, with options in French and Spanish
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, with options in French and Spanish
Master of Arts in Spanish Language Teaching
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:
- 101, 102 for scores equivalent to novice high on the ACTFL scale in both speaking and writing;
- 101, 102, 103 for scores equivalent to intermediate low on the ACTFL scale in both speaking and writing; or
- 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. It is an excellent complement to a second major in many fields, adding valuable foreign language and cultural competency and international or multicultural experience to knowledge in other disciplines and preparing students for careers in government or civil service, law and law enforcement, health and human services, travel and tourism, international business, and education. The foreign language program at SOU prepares majors to enter graduate programs leading to careers that require superior language proficiency in specializations such as linguistics, literature, culture studies, and translation.
The language and culture major in Spanish or French 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. Incorporating the most current models of instruction, a multidimensional program equips undergraduates with varying skills to reach their potential language and culture proficiency levels. The language and culture major in French and the international internship track of the major in Spanish require a full-time, ten-week work internship completed abroad. The language, literature, and culture track of the major in Spanish requires additional coursework and a minimum of 120 hours of work completed locally or abroad in a multicultural or international community. 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’ integration of multidisciplinary knowledge into their specialization and their preparedness to enter the work world. To this end, foreign language and culture majors are required 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.
Admission to the Major
To be admitted to the language and culture baccalaureate program, students must have:
- Completed two years of college-level French or Spanish or the equivalent;
- Attained a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 in all coursework;
- Attained a cumulative GPA of a least 3.0 in all coursework in the language option chosen; and
- 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 a language and culture major, regardless of language or track, must complete the following minimum requirements:
- Fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements as stated beginning on page 19.
- Speak with an advisor in the preferred language area and create a junior and senior plan of study, including all items below, as approved by an advisor.
- A core of interdisciplinary language, literature, and culture credits (8 credits).
- A core of intermediate language, literature, and culture credits (12–28 credits).
- Culture electives (8 credits).
- Advanced language, literature, or culture credits (8–20 credits).
- A research and writing skills requirement, which must be met by completing FR 315 or SPAN 312 or 412 on the SOU campus in Ashland.
- A culture-specific work experience undertaken once an advanced level of proficiency has been demonstrated (minimum of 4–8 credits).
- A capstone project, completed under the supervision of a member of the languages and literatures faculty (4 credits).
- A minor or a second major.
- A minimum 2.75 GPA in the language of specialization and a 2.5 GPA overall.
- A campus residency requirement. At least 16 upper division credits that have been approved by an advisor in the language of concentration, not including the capstone project and the practical work experience, must be completed in courses offered on the SOU campus in Ashland. At least 12 credits taken in residence, excluding capstone and practica credits, must be at the 400-level.
- Additional language-specific requirements. See an advisor in the option.
Work and Study Abroad
Foreign language students are encouraged to take advantage of the many varied and high-quality SOU approved study or work abroad programs and options available. Financial aid applies in most instances. With advisor consent, internship, practicum, and study abroad credit earned through SOU or another accredited U.S. university may fulfill foreign language and other program requirements. An academic year abroad is recommended for all foreign language majors.
International Internship
The degree option in French and track A in Spanish require an international internship of at least ten weeks of full-time work (350 to 400 hours). The internship must be completed in residence in a country where the language is spoken. Students completing the major requirement must register for at least 8 credits. Up to 15 such credits may be earned depending on the total number of hours worked (30 hours of work per credit). The work may be undertaken once a student has 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 internship course is usually an irregular registration and includes statements of work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation. Credits and course requirements are overseen by a member of the foreign language faculty.
Community-Based Work
The degree track B in Spanish requires students to work locally or abroad for at least 120 hours. The work must be completed in a community or country where Spanish is spoken. The community-based work experience is generally a part-time experience spread over several weeks. Majors completing track B must complete at least 4 credits and may be eligible to earn additional credits depending on the total number of hours worked (30 hours of work per credit). The work may be undertaken once a student has 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 year or semester of study abroad. The work experience is registered as an irregular course or courses and includes statements of work objectives, journals, reports, and an employer evaluation. Credits and course requirements are overseen by a member of the foreign language faculty.
Capstone
All students in the language and culture major 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
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 non-departmental courses may meet this requirement with advisor approval.
**May be repeated for credit when topic changes.
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 not including the capstone project and the practical work experience.
Spanish Language and Culture
Track A: International Internship
(60 credits in Spanish and related courses, plus additional credits as indicated below.)
Track B: Language, Literature, and Culture
(72 credits in Spanish and related courses, plus additional credits as indicated below.)
1. Interdisciplinary Literature and Culture Core
(8 credits) (Track B must choose SPAN 301 plus 4 additional credits.)
| Introduction to Reading Hispanic Literature (SPAN 301) or Introduction to Literary Theory and Critical Writing (ENG 300) | 4 |
| Cultural Anthropology: Perspectives on Humanity (ANTH 213), Communication Across Cultures (COMM 200), or Media Across Cultures (COMM 201) | 4 |
Note: SPAN 320, 425, or 441 may be substituted for ANTH 213, COMM 200, or COMM 201. A topic may be used only once to fulfill requirements in the major.
2. Intermediate Language and Literature Core
(Track A: choose 24 credits. Track B: choose 28 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 |
| Topics in Hispanic Film (SPAN 320)*** | 4 |
| Nineteenth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 322)** or Twentieth-Century Hispanic Literature (SPAN 323)** | 4–8 |
| Spanish Phonetics/Phonology (SPAN 331) | 4 |
*Meets requirement for research and writing training in the major. SPAN 412 is for students who have already acquired advanced skills, such as heritage or native speakers or students who have studied abroad.
**SPAN 322 and 323 are required for students in Track B or for others who choose to take SPAN 421, 422, and 425.
***SPAN 320 may not be applied to Track B in this section of major requirements.
3. 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. A topic may be used only once to fulfill requirements in the major.
4. Advanced Language and Culture Courses
(Track A: choose 4–8 credits. Track B: choose 8 credits.)
| 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 |
*May be repeated for credit when topic changes.
5. Advanced Literature and Culture Courses
(Track A: choose 0–4 credits. Track B: complete 12 credits.)
| 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.
6. Advanced Service Learning
(Track A: International Internship. Minimum 8 credits/ ten weeks of full-time work)*
| International Internship (SPAN 408) | 8–15 |
*Students complete a minimum of 400 hours of work and must enroll for a minimum of 8 credits for the work, but may receive up to 13 credits for 400 hours or up to 15 credits for an additional 30 hours of work per credit.
(Track B: Community-Based Work. Minimum 4 credits/ three weeks of full-time work)*
| Community-Based Work (SPAN 406) | 4–15 |
*Students complete a minimum of 120 hours of work and must enroll for a minimum of 4 credits for the work, but may receive up to 15 credits for an additional 30 hours of work per credit.
7. Capstone
(4 credits)
| Capstone: Research and Writing (SPAN 490) | 4 |
8. Interdisciplinary Concentrations
Students in the Spanish major are required to complete a minor or a second major. At least 16 credits of the major must be completed on the Ashland campus, 12 credits of which must be in Spanish courses at the 400-level.
Minors
Students may minor in French, German, or Spanish by completing 24 credits in one of these languages, as indicated below.
French
Select 24 credits of French, of which at least 20 must be upper division, as follows. At least 8 upper division credits must be taken on the SOU Ashland campus.
Required Courses
German
Required Courses
Select 24 credits in German as follows. At least 8 upper division credits must be taken in courses on the SOU campus in Ashland.
| Intermediate German Language and Culture III (GL 203) | 4 |
| German Culture, Conversation, and Composition (GL 301, 302, 303) | 12 |
| Advanced credits from study abroad or the Deutsche Sommerschule am Pazifik | 8 |
Spanish
Required Courses
Select 24 credits of upper division courses in Spanish. Students must take at least 8 credits of upper division courses on the SOU campus. With advisor approval, up to 8 credits of Spanish may be transferred from other accredited universities, and approved credits earned studying abroad may also be applied.
| 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 |
| Spanish Phonetics/Phonology (SPAN 331) | 4 |
| Advanced Composition, Conversation, and Culture (SPAN 412) | 4 |
| Upper division courses in Spanish as approved by an advisor | varies |
Teacher Licensing
Students who would like to teach languages at the middle school or high school level in Oregon public schools must complete a bachelor’s degree 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.
Foreign Language Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower Division Courses
| FL 101, 102, 103 Special Topics: Beginning Language |
| 4 credits each |
| Allows students to receive beginning language credit for languages not taught on a regular basis on the SOU campus. Title and content varies according to the language taught. May be repeated for credit. Languages taught may be from approved study-abroad programs, NASILP self-instructional programs, or other special language programs affiliated with SOU, including Native American languages. |
| FL 199 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| FL 201, 202, 203 Special Topics: Intermediate Language |
| 4 credits each |
| Allows students to receive intermediate language credit for languages not taught on a regular basis on the SOU campus. Title and content varies according to the language taught. May be repeated for credit. Languages taught may be from approved study-abroad programs, NASILP self-instructional programs, or other special language programs affiliated with SOU, including Native American languages. Completion of sequence meets BA language requirement. |
| FL 299 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
See Course Prerequisites PolicyUpper Division Course
| FL 399 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
See Course Prerequisites PolicyGraduate 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. |
French Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower 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 (Explorations). |
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). Prerequisites: 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; and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| 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 University 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. |
German Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower 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 |
Japanese Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower 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 399 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| JPN 409 Practicum |
| 1 to 4 credits |
Spanish Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower 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 15 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. Requires 30 hours of work per credit. The community-based work experience is generally a part-time work or volunteer experience carried out over several weeks. Students in the Spanish Track A are required to complete at least 4 credits of community-based work. Students file a statement of work and learning objectives with their academic supervisor, write reports and journals, and secure a written evaluation from the work supervisor. Prerequisites: Demonstrated advanced proficiency and six courses of SPAN 310, 311, 312, 315, 322, 323 and 331. |
| SPAN 407/507 Seminar |
| Credits to be arranged |
| SPAN 408 International Internship |
| 6 to 15 credits |
| Full-time work internship in a Spanish-speaking country. Students work at schools, businesses, social services, or other institutions. Requires 30 hours of work per credit. 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 |
| 3 to 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 301, 311, 312, or 412; and 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 301, 311, 312, or 412; and 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 301, 311, 312, or 412; and 322, 323. |
| SPAN 498 Capstone: Research and Writing Seminar |
| 4 credits |
| Designed to be the culminating project of the Spanish major, builds from a previous research and writing paper completed with a B or better from a 400-level literature, culture, or linguistics course taken at SOU and is normally taken in the spring term before graduation. Emphasizes three processes: 1) creating a capstone essay by polishing and expanding the analytical and rhetorical content of the original term paper; 2) expanding the original 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 510 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. |
Master of Arts in Spanish Language Teaching
The Master of Arts in Spanish Language Teaching offers the opportunity for middle school, high school, and community college Spanish teachers to complete a master’s degree over the course of three summers. The program is offered through the SOU Summer Language Institute for Spanish teachers at SOU’s sister institution, the Universidad de Guanajuato in Guanajuato, Mexico.
Each summer, teachers can earn a total of 16 to 18 credits in two three-week sessions. Completion of the master’s degree program requires a total of 45 credits. Up to 9 graduate credits may be transferred from other institutions.
Requirements for Master of Arts in Spanish Language Teaching
Complete 45 credits in graduate-level Summer Language Institute courses. Up to 9 credits of coursework may be accepted from other institutions:
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 (30 credits) (At least 10 credits must be in courses with an emphasis on pedagogy, such as SPAN 516, which can be repeated for credit as topic changes. Students may use up to 9 credits of approved course work from another institution.):
| Advanced Spanish Conversation (SPAN 510) | 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 |
| Total credits | 45 |
Admission
Master’s candidates must be currently teaching Spanish at the middle school, high school, or community college level and must have taught for at least one year prior to applying. They must submit a resumé, two letters of recommendation that address their teaching and language experience, a statement of their educational philosophy, and a copy of an ACTFL certified oral proficiency interview rating of at least Intermediate High. Application materials are available at sou.edu/summerlanguageinstitute/apply.
Classes
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).
Summer Language Institute courses are available as space allows to non-master’s-seeking students who may want additional coursework to improve their teaching skills, language proficiency, or cultural understanding or who may need additional graduate-level coursework to maintain or renew their certification.
