Language Courses
Minors:
Intense Elementary French*
Intense Elementary Spanish*
Beginning Latin
Introduction to Arabic*
Introduction to Chinese
All Grades
EXTENDED MINOR
Introduction to Arabic familiarizes students with the basic components of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and the cultures of the Arabic-speaking world. Since MSA does not vary by country and is distinct from local dialects, students who study MSA will be able to communicate with all Arabic speakers and understand Arabic print and audio media. This course is a language course with a significant cultural component. Students focus on listening to, speaking, reading, and writing MSA. Additionally, students become familiar with the cultures of the Arabic-speaking and Islamic world, through Arabic films, radio broadcasts, and music, as well as Islam and Islamic art. through the course of the summer, students begin to write in Arabic, read basic passages, learn to use an Arabic-English dictionary and converse about simple topics (including greetings, introductions, biographical information, hobbies and interests).
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All Grades
EXTENDED MINOR
This course is for students who have not studied French and would like a strong introduction to the language by being imersed in it. Students become familiar with and proficient in fundamental elements of French vocabulary, grammar, and structure through frequent practice in written and oral expression. There is a stron focus on everyday communication and current French usage, including idiomatic expressions. This course is an essential introduction to the world of French and francophone thought and communication.
Students also will take advantage of the presence of French and francophone students on campus, learning from them about French culture through conversations in and outside of the classroom.
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All Grades
EXTENDED MINOR
This course is for students who have not studied Spanish and would like a strong introduction to the language by being imersed in it. Topics include verbs, grammatical structures (definite /indefinite articles, position and agreement of adjectives, possessive/demonstrative nouns/adjectives, comparisons, pronouns), idioms and vocabulary.
Students can also take advantage of the presence of Spanish speaking students on campus, practicing and learning from them through conversations in and outside the classroom.
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All Grades
MINOR
Beginning Latin will introduce students to basic Latin grammar and vocabulary in order to develop reading skills. Emphasis will be on reading comprehension, but the course will also focus on pronunciation and expanding English vocabulary using Latin roots. By analyzing translated excerpts from Roman poets such as Virgil, the students will appreciate the art of translation and the depth of Roman culture and literary influence. In addition, the course will explore various aspects of ancient Roman culture - including gods, myths, and government.
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All Grades
MINOR
One out of every four people in the world uses the Chinese language. This course is designed for students who have not had previous exposure to the language. The course covers the basic pronunciation and grammatical structures. The textbook includes the study of short lessons with practical and lively conversations that emphasize vocabulary. By the end of the session, students are able to recognize, pronounce and write as many as 150 Chinese characters and phrases. The class will also have a brief introduction to Chinese, arts, history and culture.
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