Admission requirements
Required course(s):
Spanish – Elementary @ LUC and/or Level B1 Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Students that do not meet this prerequisite should contact the instructor regarding the required competencies before course allocation.
Description
The goal of this course is to consolidate and expand the fundamentals of Spanish language acquired at the level of Spanish Elementary. The course aims to develop language skills in five areas: reading, listening, speaking, writing and cultural competence. Grammatical structures and vocabulary will also be integrated into the learning process in meaningful contexts. Furthermore an important aspect of the course will be the cultural knowledge about Spain and Latin America, with a strong emphasis on intercultural communication.
The coursebook is an innovative manual that makes it possible to work on three areas at the same time in a straightforward manner: vocabulary focus, an action-oriented approach and developing independent learning.
Course Objectives
In terms of the CEFR of the Council of Europe, at the end of this course the student:
can read articles and reports concerned with contemporary problems in which the writers adopt particular attitudes or viewpoints (level B2).
can understand the information content of the majority of recorded or broadcast material on topics of personal interest delivered in clear standard language (level B1+/B2).
can follow much of everyday conversation and discussion, provided it is clearly articulated in standard language or in a familiar variety. (level B1+/B2).
can write clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects related to her/his interests (level B1+/B2).
can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible (level B1+/B2).
can present clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to her/his field of interest (level B2).
Timetable
Timetables for courses offered at Leiden University College in 2023-2024 will be published on this page of the e-Prospectus.
Mode of instruction
This course will be delivered in Spanish. Students are expected to use the target language as a means of communication in the classroom. Each session will aim to develop the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking.
The classes will be highly interactive and students will often work in pairs or groups to practice their language skills.
During the course, students will give oral presentations about different topics, according to their increasing level of knowledge.
A substantial amount of independent study will be expected: several hours a week should be devoted to Spanish outside the classroom to complete work set by the instructor and practice reading, listening and writing skills.
Assessment Method
The final grade will be calculated according to the following grade breakdown:
Class participation Percentage: 17.5% (Grammar & vocabulary quizzes: 10%; assignments and participation: 7.5%)
Deadline: throughout the semester (to be confirmed)
Listening Comprehension Exam
Percentage: 7.5% + 7.5%
Deadline: week 5 and week 14 (to be confirmed)
Written Production & Reading Comprehension
Percentage: 17.5% + 17.5%
Deadline: week 7 and week 16 (to be confirmed)
Discussions & presentations
Percentage: 7.5% + 10%
Deadline: throughout the semester (to be confirmed)
Compositions in class
Percentage: 7.5% + 7.5%
Deadline: week 5 and week 14 (to be confirmed)
Reading list
Bitácora 4 Nueva Edición – Libro del Alumno (hybrid edition) . Editorial Difusión.
Bitácora 4 Nueva Edición – Cuaderno de Ejercicios. Editorial Difusión.
Students must purchase the course books before the beginning of the course.
Registration
Courses offered at Leiden University College (LUC) are usually only open to LUC students and LUC exchange students. Leiden University students who participate in one of the university’s Honours tracks or programmes may register for one LUC course, if availability permits. Registration is coordinated by the Education Coordinator, course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.
Contact
M.J.Perez-Rodriguez@hum.leidenuniv.nl
Remarks
-