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Directed Studies World Languages Level 1
Directed Studies World Languages Level 2. Permission of the instructor and department chair required.
This course considers the culture and civilization of a specific linguistic area up to the present. Through audiovisual aids, current newspapers and selected readings, students will explore other cultures' ways of being, thinking, and living, Emphasis is placed on the main contributions of Hispanic, Fancophone and Italian culture to the western world. The thematic focus of this course will be rotated. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the instructor.
Riverhawk Scholars Academy (RHSA) students only.
Directed Studies World Languages Level 3. Permission of the instructor and department chair required.
Directed Studies World Languages Level 4. Permission of the instructor and department chair required.
The purpose of this course is to help students document and critically analyze their experience abroad, in an internship or in a community project. Through the creation of a digital portfolio, this course validates our major students' linguistic hands-on experience through study abroad or community-based practicum experience and it establishes consistency in our major curriculum by ensuring that all our majors are getting a high-quality linguistic experience abroad or at home. This course is conducted in the target language in which the student majors. For those students majoring in French/Spanish and Italian/Spanish options, the student chooses the target language in which the coursework is completed.
Student film festivals can launch a successful career in film, television, and media. In this class, students will produce, judge, and select films to screen at the annual UMass Lowell film festival. The festival features globally produced short fiction films, animation, and documentaries, created by high school and college students. The festival is free and open to students and the public. Students will learn key business and artistic components of the media industry, develop methods for marketing, budgeting, distribution, event design and organization, and learn the power of cinematic storytelling, represented by the best work of young filmmakers. Students will play an important role in organizing the event, schedule, and program books.
Pre-Req: ENGL.1020 College Writing II.
Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 115, 116 and 215, 216 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
This course is for students who have completed 53.115 Arabic 1 and Culture. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 115, 116 and 215, 216 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: WLAR.1150 Arabic 1 and Culture.
Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 117, 118 and 215, 217 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: 53.116 Arabic 2 and Culture.
Pre-Req: WLAR.2150 Arabic 3 and Culture.
Individual research projects on Arabic or Islamic culture. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with instructor, pursue a special topic of research.
Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 105, 106 and 205, 206 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Continuation of 53.105 Chinese 1 and Culture. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 103, 104 and 205, 206 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: 53.105 Chinese 1 and Culture.
This introductory language and culture course prepares non-Chinese speakers for potential future business engagements either in China or with Chinese speakers in the United States. Effective communication and cultural competency in standard/Mandarin Chinese are emphasized. Students will be exposed to various aspects of Chinese culture appropriate for informal as well as business social settings. Topics include, but are not limited to, self-introduction, traveling, lodging, dining, shopping, banking, seeing a doctor, making friends, and doing business. Authentic language materials (vocabulary, Pinyin, sentence structures, conversations) are presented and taught in a second language acquisition environment with interactive activities that are relevant to proper social etiquette.
This language and culture course is a continuation of Business Chinese I. The course prepares non-Chinese speakers for potential future business engagements either in China or with Chinese speakers in the United States. Effective communication and cultural competency in standard/Mandarin Chinese are emphasized. Students will be exposed to various aspects of Chinese culture appropriate for informal as well as business social settings. Topics include, but are not limited to, self-introduction,traveling, lodging, dining, shopping, banking, seeing a doctor, making friends, and doing business. Authentic language materials (vocabulary, Pinyin, sentence structures, conversations) are presented and taught in a second language acquisition environment with interactive activities that are relevant to proper social etiquette.
Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 105,106 and 205, 206 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: 53.106 Chinese 2 and Culture.
This course is a continuation of 53.205 Chinese 3 and Culture, which is a pre-requisite. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 105, 106 and 205, 206 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: 53.205 Chinese 3 and Culture.
This course offers an insight into Chinese culture and society by examining different genres of modern and contemporary Chinese Literature -- the novel, poetry, essay, and drama -- since the early Twentieth Century. Readings in English translations of representative works by major writers/essayists/poets/playwrights will be complemented by selected feature films and documentaries. The survey of Chinese literature will be put in the context of a series of sociopolitical changes in China that informed the production of these works.
An in-dept study of the culture, civilization, or literature from the Chinese-speaking world. Class discussions, readings, oral and written work all in English. Other materials could be in target language with translations or subtitles. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the instructor.
Pre-Req: ENGL 1020 College Writing II.
An in-depth study of culture, civilization, and literature from the Chinese-speaking world. The emphasis of the course is not only on understanding China's history in general chronological terms, but also on understanding the cultural qualities that have made China a great yet distinctive country. Course taught in English.
This course offers an insight into the social, economic, and political transformation of China, particularly in the past century, through a cinematic lens. Selected films of different genres from Mainland China, Hong Kong as well as Taiwan, and even the U.S., including Hollywood films portraying China and films made by Chinese Americans, will be examined to decipher its regional differences, the urban-rural gap, daily lives, gendered identities, and the belief system as well as the cultural landscape of contemporary and modern China. Taught in English.
Students through regular consultation with the Instructor develop a course of directed study or independent study in Chinese Culture. Students findings are presented in a paper of significant proportion.
A program of directed study to give an opportunity to a student to explore problems in Chinese Culture in greater dept or to initiate additional problems in Chinese Culture.
Develops French speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through the discovery of French and Francophone culture in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in French with clarification in English). This class is the 1st of the 4-course French language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Continuation of French 1 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite. Strengthens French speaking, listening, reading and writing skills acquired in French 1 and Culture through the discovery of French and Francophone culture in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in French with some clarification in English). This class is the 2nd of the 4-course French language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req: WLFR.1010 French 1 and Culture.
Enhances the four skills acquired in French 2 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite: speaking, listening, reading and writing through the discovery of French and Francophone culture in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in French with minimal use of English). This class is the 3rd of the 4-course French language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req: WLFR.1020 French 2 and Culture.
This course has French 3 and Culture (or equivalent) as a pre-requisite and is the 4th and last of the 4-course French language program offered at UML. The course strengthens the four skill acquired in prior levels. It emphasizes increased accuracy and depth of students' abilities and knowledge of French and Francophone culture and language in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in French with almost no use of English). Students express themselves orally and in writing at the national standards level of high-intermediate and understand key-concepts when spoken clearly at native speed.
Pre-Req: WLFR.2110 French 3 and Culture.
This course explores the culture and literature of French-speaking Quebec. Through essays, literary readings, songs, works of art, and film, students will follow the development of this province of Canada from its origins as a French colony through the exodus of French-Canadians in the early twentieth century and the Revolution Tranquille of the 1960's, up to the present day. Conducted entirely in French.
Pre-req: WLFR.2110 French 3 and Culture.
A panoramic survey of French Literatue based on the history and civilization of France from the Middle Ages to the XXth (20th) Century, through readings in the original French language of excerpts from milestone novels, theater and poetry. Class conducted in French.
Pre-Req: WLFR 2110 French 3 and Culture, or WLFR 2120 French 4 and Culture or WLAN 3990 Elective.
The "Haussmanization" of Paris coincides with the emergence of the capital city of France as both a setting for contemporary literature, and as a literary character in its own right, holding different meanings for its many poets, writers, and painters. This course explores how Paris changed over the course of the nineteenth century by examining poetic and fictional responses to the Parisian landscape, and through their explorations of what it meant to live in the capital. Readings will include works by main French writers such as Balzac, Baudelaire, Hugo, Zola, and Maupassant, and feature cinematic works by Godard and Varda, in additional to examples of Paris as represented in new media. Taught in French.
A survey of contemporary Francophone Literature of African, European, and North American French speaking countries since 1960 until today.
A panoramic survey of the short story in Francophone literature, based on the history and civilization of France from the Early Modern period, through the beginning of the 21st Century, and including readings in the original French language of important works f short prose by Marguerite de Navarre, Jean de la Fontaine, Madame de Sevigné, Jean de La Bruyére, Montesquieu, Francoise de Graffigny, Honoré de Balzac, Gustave Flaubert, Guy de Maupassant, Rachilde, Madeleine Bourdouxhe, Fatou Diome, and Scholastique Mukasonga. Class conducted in French.
An in-depth study of a specific topic in literature, culture, civilization or cinema from the French-speaking world. Class discussions, readings, oral and written work all in French. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the Instructor.
Pre-Req: WLFR 2110 French 3 and Culture or WLFR 3990 Elective.
This course, taught in English, is for non French majors and minors. It is offered for students who are completing their language requirement through the World Ready option, and have chosen the French track. The course covers a topic of the French-speaking world's culture, civilization, cinema or literature. Class discussions, readings, oral and written work all in English. Other materials could be in target language with translations or subtitles. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the instructor.
Designed for prospective majors and minors in French as well as for those who have completed four years of high school or two years of college French. The course examines similarities and differences in the ethos of nations of the French-speaking world and in the life-styles of the individuals and groups that make them up. Conducted in French.
This course introduces the concept of "Francophonie" and describes the origins of the main francophone communities left in North America: Quebec, Acadia and New-Foundland in Canada, and Louisiana and New England (including Lowell) in the U.S. The primary focus of this class is Culture, history and language (different varieties of French spoken by those communities). Class conducted in French.
In this course we look closely at some fundamental issues reflecting the rapidly changing paramters of French culture and society today; the question of national identity and cultural hybridite, the relationship between the evolving types of family relations and new forms of social and political contracts; the crucial personal problems faced by the young, the poor, the immigrant and the elderly in an increasingly multicultural Hexagone attempting to define its place, role and funcation within the recently defined Europe unit and the new global world order; the current status of women; the relashionship between cities and ghettos, violence and crime; the nature of emerging forms of cultural production within new trends and styles of modernite.
Provides a critical appreciation of contemporary French cinema (1985-today) aiming at sorting out its eclecticism and focusing on the following aspects: 1) French cultural exception in the European Union: cultural integration and national identity; 2) Representation of the ongoing social and moral changes in contemporary France; 3) The new generation of French filmmakers. Class taught in French.
A systematic study of grammatical and syntactical structures. Review of more advanced structures.
Pre-Req: WLFR.2110 French 3 and Culture or FRE3 or FRE4 student group waiver.
Advanced oral practice in rapid and idiomatic speech. Topics of contemporary significance are selected from contemporary prose.
Designed to improve and reinforce proficiency in spoken and written French through regular exercises of oral communication and free composition, through the analysis of literary texts and authentic written and oral materials. Taught in French.
Based on a wide range of theoretical texts from feminism, gender, and queer studies, this course will explore how literature and film offer new configurations of sexual and gender identity. We will examine representations of gender roles and power to explore the broader questions of belonging and marginality in the French-speaking world and globally. Students will become familiar with contemporary theories around the discursive construction of gender identity; reflect on the modalities of the representation of sexuality; analyze the problematization of sexual identity through the study of literary texts and films that question the representation and construction of gender.
Covers the dramatic presentation French society gives of itself during the period of profound social and economic change, from the New Wave and the May 68 events to today's younger generation facing an uncertain tomorrow. Each screening (in French with subtitles) is preceded by an introduction placing the film in its historical context. In English.
Provides a critical appreciation of the notion of Francophone identity through modern and contemporary (1970-today) Francophone cinema from diverse places such as but not limited to North Africa, West Africa (especially Senegal), Canada (especially Quebec) the Caribbean, Belgium, and Switzerland. The course is aiming at showing the evolution of the Francophone identity in the postcolonial period until now and is focusing on the following aspects: 1) The emergence and importance of postcolonial Francophone cinema in the 1970s as a "cinema engage" (especially Sembene Ousmane in Senegal); 2) Contemporary issues of the postcolonial Francophone societies through films; 3) Representations of the cultural diversity in Francophone films; 4) Identity, race and immigration, women's status issues.
This course explores major works from French Caribbean authors. Through novels, films, short stories, poetry, and play, we will uncover the historical, intellectual and social dynamics that define the French Caribbean world. A special emphasis will be placed on topics such as Négritude, Antillanité, Créolité, and Migration.
WLFR.2110 Pre-req or French 4 Waiver Group.
Senegal has particular significance in Francophone studies for the highly visible contributions of its writers and artists from the colonial era through today, and its emblematic role in cultural production in West Africa. Through film, literature, visual arts and other cultural productions in the country from the French colonial period up through today, we examine how artists have responded to the history and present legacies of colonialism through their creative works. The course is conducted in French.
Pre-req: WLFR.2110 French 3 and Culture, or WLFR.2120 French 4 and Culture.
The long history of migration in France, and its current visibility in politics and society make studying this theme in literature, film, and other cultural production fundamental to our understanding of mainland France today. This course focuses on written and visual texts connected to both France, and other regions of departure (including but not limited to North Africa and West/Central Africa). We examine key themes in texts focused on migration: labor, education and assimilation, family/next generations, and clandestine immigration. In addition to primary texts, secondary critical reading will ground discussion in postcolonial theory, gender studies, and francophone studies in order to understand the long tradition of these themes in francophone literature and film.
Designed for students who need/wish to enhance and advance their linguistic skills in French. Conducted entirely in French, the course will focus on the vocabulary of contemporary French as well as selected grammatical and syntactical structures through the analysis of French-speaking Media (newspapers, Radios, TVs) available on the Web.
Individual research projects in French literature. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, develop a course of directed study in French literature and define a problem for individual research. The student's findings are presented in a paper of significant proportions.
Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, pursue a special program of composition or creative expression.
A program of directed study which affords the advanced student with an additional opportunity to pursue a previously explored problem in greater depth or to initiate a new problem. The purpose of the course is to sharpen and refine techniques for scholarly research, presentation and creative expression.
A program of on-campus and/or off-campus experiences (for French and Modern Language Majors only). Specific requirements vary depending upon faculty policies and the nature of the program undertaken by the student. The intent of the practicum experience is to provide an occasion for investigation of a community, social, cultural, or artistic area and for applying techniques of problem solving and/or skills which are appropriate to the student's major discipline. May be repeated for a maximum of nine credits. Students are graded "satisfactory" or "unsatisfactory". The practicum experience may not be substituted for a required course in the major.
Develops German speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through the discovery of the culture of German speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in German with clarification in English). This class is the 1st of the 4-course German language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Continuation of German 1 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite. Strengthens German speaking, listening, reading and writing skills acquired in German 1 and Culture through the discovery of the culture of German speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in German with some clarification in English). This class is the 2nd of the 4-course German language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req: 51.101 German 1 and Culture.
Enhances the four skills acquired in German 2 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite: speaking, listening, reading and writing through the discovery of the culture of German speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in German with minimal use of English). This class is the 3rd of the 4-course German language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req: WLGE.1020 German 2 and Culture.
This course has German 3 and Culture (or equivalent) as a pre-requisite and is the 4th and last of the 4-course German language program offered at UML. The course strengthens the four skill acquired in prior levels. It emphasizes increased accuracy and depth of students' abilities and knowledge of the culture of German speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in German with almost no use of English). Students express themselves orally and in writing at the national standards level of high-intermediate and understand key-concepts when spoken clearly at native speed.
Pre-Req: 51.211 German 3 and Culture.
This course will provide a study of the Grimms' fairy tales, their collection and publication by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm in the contest of 19th century German Romanticism, and their enduring relevance to modern social commentary. Reading the texts in English translation, students will gain a critical understanding of the content and structure of the tales, of their cultural components, and their function through time to entertain, edify, and inform about life in the social milieu. The course is taught in English.
This course examines the cultural and social development of Germany, from the end of World War II until now. This course analyzes the radical transformation of Germany through a deep identity crisis and the rising of new German generations. Germany's cultural, political and economical reconstruction will be discussed in readings, films, documentaries, architecture, pictures, and paintings. Course materials are in English or in German with English subtitles. This course is conducted in English.
Individual research projects for modern language majors. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, develop a course of directed study in literature and culture and define a subject for individual research. The student's findings are represented in a paper of significant proportion.
A program of directed study which affords Modern Language majors an additional opportunity to pursue a previously explored topic in greater depth or to initiate an additional topic. The purpose of this tutorial is to sharpen and refine techniques of scholarly research, presentation and creative expression.
Develops Italian speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through the discovery of the culture of Italy in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Italian with clarification in English). This class is the 1st of the 4-course Italian language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Continuation of Italian 1 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite. Strengthens Italian speaking, listening, reading and writing skills acquired in Italian 1 and Culture through the discovery of the culture of Italy in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Italian with some clarification in English). This class is the 2nd of the 4-course Italian language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req: WLIT.1010 Italian 1 and Culture.
Enhances the four skills acquired in Italian 2 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite: speaking, listening, reading and writing through the discovery of the culture of Italy in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Italian with minimal use of English). This class is the 3rd of the 4-course Italian language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req: 52.102 Italian 2 and Culture.
This course has Italian 3 and Culture (or equivalent) as a pre-requisite and is the 4th and last of the 4-course Italian language program offered at UML. The course strengthens the four skill acquired in prior levels. It emphasizes increased accuracy and depth of students' abilities and knowledge of the culture of Italy in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Italian with almost no use of English). Students express themselves orally and in writing at the national standards level of high-intermediate and understand key-concepts when spoken clearly at native speed.
Pre-Req; 52.211 Italian 3 and Culture.
This interdisciplinary and multimedia course will provide a comprehensive view of Italian civilization from the Unification to the present. Through readings, movies, documentaries, pictures, and paintings, students will gain a critical understanding of many of the key events that have shaped Italian history, politics,and economy, and will be guided to discover questions of national identity, language, religion, gender and sexuality, ethnicity, immigration, media and fashion. Conducted in English (English reading material; film screenings In Italian with English subtitles.)
A limited topic of special interest in culture, civilization, or literature. May be taught in English or Italian. Course content and approach varies depending on instructor. The faculty post and distribute a detailed course description each semester, and students are urged to use this information in making their selections.
Pre-Req; WLIT 2110 Italian 3 and Culture or ITA3 or ITA4 student group.
Depends on faculty and student interests associated with Italian literature, composition and culture .
Discusses the most prominent authors and works of Italian-American Literature as they, by using the ethnic setting, are able to convey universal human concerns and themes. The discussion on Italian-American ethnic issues will include such films as The Godfather, Moonstruck, The Sicilian, Goodfellas, and The Untouchables. Conducted in English.
Studies women writers of Italy by giving attention to the genres of narrative, poetry, theater and autobiography. Authors are selected according to their impact on issues affecting women, gender studies, feminism, avant-garde, modernism, social relations and psychological discourse. Conducted in English.
This course covers selected works from contemporary Italian prose and poetry, with particular attention to texts written in the last twenty years. It focuses on textual analysis and interpretation, and is intended to improve students' familiarity with idioms and vocabulary of contemporary Italian language. The course is taught in Italian and will advance students' skills in all areas of Italian language and culture.
A systematic study of complex grammatical structures in Italian. Conducted in Italian only.
Pre-Req; WLIT 2110 Italian 3 and Culture, or WLIT 2120 Italian 4 and Culture.
This course offers a systematic approach to learning Italian language and culture through films. It is designed to improve students' language skills and enrich their knowledge of Italian contemporary society. This class is taught in Italian.
The course aims at developing advanced written and oral proficiency. Topics of contemporary significance are selected for discussions. This class is taught in Italian.
A study of the waning of the Middle Ages and the dawning of the Renaissance as seen through the work of Petrarch and Boccaccio. Emphasis is on the study of sources and the influence of Petrarch and Boccaccio upon the literatures of western Europe. Conducted in English.
A guide to contemporary Italian studies through literary and cultural approaches. The works of central figures in contemporary Italian letters are examined in view of their impact on Italian life. Emphasis is given to poets, novelists, the new cinema, the influences of existentialism, and the impact of America on Italian literature. Conducted in Italian/English.
This course explores literary, cinematic and social media representations of race and identity in Italy from the late 19th century to today. Through the study of texts and drawing form history, sociology, critical race theory, media and cultural studies, students will discover how Black Italians challenge mainstream discourses, thus contributing to redefine the multilayered composition of Italian society. This course will be taught in English. Knowledge of Italian is preferred but not required. Italian majors and minors will complete all written assignments, reviews, and exams in Italian.
A study of Italian film history and its accomplishment by exploring the relationship of cinema to sociopolitical, economic, cultural, and literary events. The course will discuss in depth either a) one or two major and well known directors; b) a major thematic and stylistic division in a century of cinematic creativity.
Pre-Req: ENGL 1020 College Writing II, or permission of instructor.
This course explores crucial works of Italian cinema directed by women from the early 20th century to present day. Students will engage in critical discussions, analyzing and debating a vast array of social and ethical topics as well as private and political issues such as family ties, motherhood, work, gender discrimination, displacement, and violence. This course will be taught in English. Knowledge of Italian is preferred but not required. Italian majors and minors enrolled in this course will complete all written assignments, reviews, and exams in Italian, consolidating their intermediate high/advanced low ACTFL language proficiency level. This course satisfies credits for those students who are in the World Ready Italian Track and in the Film Studies minor. If students complete the course work in Italian, then the course also satisfies credit for those students in the Italian Studies minor, and Italian/Spanish major degree programs.
Pre-req or Co-req: ENGL.1020 College Writing II.
Individual research projects for modern language majors. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, develop a course of directed study in Italian literature and define a subject for individual research. The student's findings are presented in a paper of significant proportions.
Individual research projects for modern language majors. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, pursue a special topic of composition or creative expression.
A program of directed study which affords Language majors an additional opportunity to pursue a previously explored topic in greater depth or to initiate an additional topic. The purpose of this tutorial is to sharpen and refine techniques of scholarly research, presentation and creative expression. Permission of Instructor.
A program of on-campus and/or off-campus experiences (for Italian and Language Majors only). Specific requirements vary depending upon faculty policies and the nature of the program undertaken by the student. The intent of the practicum experience is to provide an occasion for investigation of a community, social, cultural, or artistic area and for applying techniques of problem solving and/or skills which are appropriate to the student's major discipline. The practicum experience may not be substituted for a required course in the major. Permission of Instructor.
This intensive, 3-credit Cambodian language and culture course in intended for heritage Cambodian speakers who already have a basic command of the spoken and written language. The course covers the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills comprising the Cambodian Language & Culture 1 & 2 course in a single semester. Contemporary news information is also presented on a weekly basis.
Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 135, 136 and 235, 236 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
This course continues the oral practice, reading, writing, grammar and cultural studies begun in 53.135. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 135, 136 and 235, 236 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: WLKH.1350 Cambodian 1 and Culture.
This intensive 3-credit Cambodian language and culture course is intended for heritage Cambodian speakers who already have successfully completed WLKH.1040, Elementary Cambodian for Heritage Speakers, or its equivalent. The course covers the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills comprising the Cambodian Language & Culture 3 & 4 courses in a single semester. Contemporary news information is also presented on a weekly basis.
Pre-req: WLKH.1040 Elementary Cambodian for Heritage Speaking, or WLKH.1360 Cambodian II and Culture.
This 3-credit course focuses on the culture of Cambodia from ancient times to present. Specifically, this course provides an overview of the geography, demographics, monarchy, religion, architecture, dance & music, literature and performing arts in historical context. The course also requires students to examine contemporary Cambodia in terms of change continuity.
Pre-Req: 53.136 Cambodian 2 and Culture.
This course is a continuation of 53.235 Cambodian 3 and Culture, which is a pre-requisite. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 135, 136 and 235, 236 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-Req: WLKH.2350 Cambodian 3 and Culture.
This course provides a survey of the role and function of literature and literary institutions in Cambodia. Selections of literature in translation from various genres (poetry, the short story, novels) are analyzed in terms of the development of the particular genre and its function vis-a-vis Cambodia's cultural institutions. Similarly, the course examines the role of these cultural institutions in supporting the production of these literatures in different historical periods (classical to modern). Particular emphasis is given to the role of literature and literary institutions in the development of national and cultural identity during and after colonial rule.
Pre-req: WLKH.2100 Introduction to Cambodian Culture.
This course examines the emergence and growth the Cambodian American culture in Lowell from the early 1980s until the present. The course focuses on cultural and artistic organizations and events, such as the Angkor dance troupe and the Southeast Asian Water Festival within the changing political and historical context of Lowell during that period. Particular attention is given to the role of Cambodian cultural organizations and events in Lowell's cultural economy, which includes Lowell's art district and city organizations like the Cultural Organization of Lowell (COOL), the Merrimack Repertory Theater and the Lowell National Historical Park.
Pre-Req: WLKH.2100 or ENGL.1020.
This 3-credit course examines Cambodian cinema and filmmakers from the 20th and 21st centuries. The course will include films in English or with English subtitles made by Cambodian filmmakers, as well as films about Cambodia made by foreign filmmakers. The course will be organized chronologically and thematically beginning with the first documentary films from the 1290's produced by foreign filmmakers, to Cambodia's "golden age" of cinema in the 1960's, to films from the 1980's about the genocide, to the fast-growing contemporary film scene in Cambodia. Students will view and examine the films in terms of their cultural context and how this context is reflected in the films' plot, characters and perspective.
This course will examine various literary and political responses to the Cambodian genocide, particularly personal accounts or literary testimony by survivors and government sanctioned legal proceedings. The course will consider how the literary and political responses to the Cambodian genocide have at different times paralleled, complimented and opposed each other. The course will also ask whether their overall effect contributes to or detracts from the serving of justice and the process of healing for the survivors. To pursue these questions, we will read selections from novels and poetry written by Cambodian survivors side by side with accounts of political activities of the Cambodian government and the international community to bring the perpetrators of the genocide to justice.
Students through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor develop a course of directed study in Cambodian (Kmer) culture, and define a problem for individual research. The student's findings are presented in a paper of significant proportions.
Depends on faculty and student interests associated with Latin literature, composition and culture .
Individual research projects on Latin language and/or culture. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with instructor, pursue a special topic of research or translation. Permission of Instructor.
Taught at a faster pace than a regular beginning course in Portuguese, is an introduction to the foundations of the Portuguese language and the cultural diversity of the Lusophone world for speakers of Spanish. Specific attention is devoted to the advantages and challenges that Portuguese presents to native or near-native speakers of Spanish. The course acknowledges that, in spite of the similarities between the two languages, there are important differences in pronunciation, vocabulary and grammatical structures. The course gives emphasis to all four language skill-listening, speaking, reading, writing-in order to achieve communicative goals. Portuguese is the language of instruction.
Pre-Req: 54.212 Spanish 4 and Culture.
Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 113, 114 and 213, 214 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
A continuation of 53.113 Portuguese 1 and Culture, which is a pre-requisite. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 113, 144 and 213, 214 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-req: WLPO.1130 Portuguese 1 or Portuguese 1 Student group for level 1/waiver.
Pre-req: 53.114 Portuguese 2 or Portuguese 2 Student group for level 2/waiver.
A continuation of 53.213 Portuguese 3 and Culture, which is a pre-requisite. Development of fundamental skills in oral expression, aural comprehension, reading and writing is required in language courses. Beginning and intermediate language courses at the 113, 114 and 213, 214 levels must be elected in the prescribed sequence.
Pre-req: WLPO.2130 Portuguese 3 or Portuguese 3 Student group for level 3/waiver.
An in-depth study of a specific topic in literature, culture, civilization from the Lusophone world. Class discussions, readings, oral and written work all in Portuguese or in English. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the Instructor.
An in-depth study of a specific topic in literature, culture, civilization or cinema from Portugal. Class discussions, readings, oral and written work all in Portuguese or in English. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the Instructor.
An introduction to Brazilian cinema and society, focusing on the Cinema Novo (New Cinema) of the 1960s and 1970s as well as more contemporary films influenced by the ideals of this movement. Films will be analyzed via reference to historical and theoretical texts. Topics to be addressed include Brazilian history as reflected in film and the formation of a distinct Brazilian aesthetic sensibility. Taught in English.
This course is designed as an introduction to film studies and to Brazilian, Portuguese and Lusophone African cinema and cultures. Taught in English. College Writing 1 (ENGL01010) and College Writing 2 (ENGL.1020).
This course is an introduction to Brazilian culture and society. Attention is given to history, geography, cinema, literature, art, and issues of race, gender, and social inequality as they lead toward a fuller understanding of Brazil. This course will cover major aspects of Brazilian society. The main texts review significant events and forces that have helped shape Brazil today. A variety of films and videos will be used. Course will be taught in English.
This course will introduce students to the development of the short story in the Portuguese-speaking world from the 19th century to today. Through theoretical readings, discussion and writing activities, students will learn to analyze, ask criticcal questions of, and develop critical arguments about short fiction. Readings will be chosen from a variety of canonical authors from Brazil, Portugal, Cabo Verde, Mozambique, Angola, and Macau. Conducted in English.
This course provides a comprehensive view of contemporary Lusophone urban space through literature and film. The course will explore the histories and cultures of the Portuguese-speaking countries by analyzing fictional texts and films related to their cities. Through readings and films, students will gain a critical understanding of many key events that have shaped Lusophone history, politics, and economy, and will be guided to discover, among others, themes related to national identity, language, ethnicity, migration, economic injustice, unhealed wounds of war, dictatorship, and colonialism. Conducted in English (English reading material; film screenings will be in Portuguese with English subtitles).
This course will study the role of music and song in Lusophone cultures, including Brazil, Portugal, and Lusophone Africa. We will examine the historical and cultural evolution of some iconic music genres, including fado, samba, bossa nova, morna, and kizomba. Students will examine the social and political importance of music, including the politically engaged song from the 1960s and 1970s to today. Conducted in English.
This course studies a diverse selection of texts by women writers from Brazil and Portugal. This course further examines the differing strategies deployed by female-authored fiction, poetry, autobiography and essay as these negotiate genre and gender, and issues affecting feminism, social relations and psychological discourses. Conducted in English.
This course offers a broad overview of Portuguese literature, in English translation, from the Middle Ages to the contemporary period, placing literary movements and major authors in their historical and aesthetic context. It focuses on promoting a basic level of cultural literacy about Portugal based on representative reading drawn from the last seven centuries of the country's history situated in their social, cultural and historic contexts. Course assignments lead students to develop skills in textural interpretation, critical thinking, and academic writing.
This course surveys selected Brazilian works of fiction and nonfiction from the different literary periods, including Romanticism, Realism, Modernism, and Postmodernism. The texts are studied in their historical, cultural, social, and aesthetic contexts. Themes include colonialism and empire, race, gender, and dictatorship. Conducted in English.
A systematic review of Portuguese grammar and syntax, and the study and practice of the basic principles of writing in Portuguese. Taught in Portuguese.
Pre-req: WLPO.2130 Portuguese 3 and Culture, or WLPO.2140 Portuguese 4 and Culture.
The course aims at developing advanced written and oral proficiency in Portuguese. Topics of contemporary significance are selected for discussions. Taught in Portuguese.
Pre-Req: WLPO.2130 Portuguese III or Permission of Instructor.
Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, pursue a special program of composition or creative expression in Portuguese.
This course allows students to undertake research on non-literature related topic on the Portuguese speaking world that is not made available through normal course offerings. The syllabus for the independent study will specify the topic and readings for the course, as well as dates by which readings and written work must be completed, the frequency of required meetings, and how the grade for the course will be determined. As an independent study is an upper level course, there is substantial writing component.
A program of directed study affords advanced student to provide an additional opportunity to pursue a previously explored problem in greater depth or to initiate and additional problem. The purpose is to sharpen and refine techniques for scholarly research and presentation and for creative expression.
Develops Spanish speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through the discovery of the culture of Spanish speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Spanish with clarification in English). This class is the 1st of the 4-course Spanish language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Continuation of Spanish 1 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite. Strengthens Spanish speaking, listening, reading and writing skills acquired in Spanish 1 and Culture through the discovery of the culture of Spanish speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Spanish with some clarification in English). This class is the 2nd of the 4-course Spanish language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
Pre-Req; WLSP.1010 Spanish 1 and Culture.
This course is designed to develop basic conversational skills necessary to communicate with patients in a health care setting. Students will acquire a basic linguistic and cultural foundation enabling them to interview and manage patients in clinical settings using Spanish; to take a history and perform a physical exam using Spanish, and to interpret health concerns of Spanish-speaking populations. The course is designed for health care professionals.
This intensive course in Spanish is a six credit blended (hybrid) course taught partly in the classroom and partly online. This one-semester Intensive review of Spanish 1 and 2 courses in restricted to students who have been placed into it by placement examination. Satisfactory completion of this course fulfills the prerequisite for Spanish 3.
Spanish for Heritage Speakers (I) is targeted to students who are exposed to Spanish in their everyday life while growing up but have received limited or no formal instruction in this language. This course builds on the knowledge and experiences that students bring to the classroom by providing them with advanced sociolinguistic and grammar skills that will enable them to use Spanish for personal, social, and academic purposes. This course will also strengthen the students¿ communication skills in Spanish and help them differentiate between the use of Spanish and English in formal and informal contexts. Students will reflect on issues around Hispanic and Latino identities, as well as on the linguistic and cultural diversity in Latin America, Spain and the United States.
Open to students who have completed Spanish II and Culture. This course provides a solid foundation in business vocabulary and overview of basic business and cultural concepts, emphasizing international business communication skills through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The course emphasizes vocabulary related to international business articulated within the geographic and cultural context of the Spanish-speaking world.
Pre-req: 54.101 Spanish I and Culture, and 54.102 Spanish II and Culture.
A continuation of 54.104, Intensive Spanish 1 and 2, this is a six credit blended (hybrid) course-taught partly in the classroom and partly online--intensive one-semester accelerated version of the third and fourth Spanish courses. Being a blended course, the online time will be dedicated to grammar review, and to the completion of various assignments and assessments. Class time will focus on communicative activities that combine grammatical concepts, relevant vocabulary, and cultural themes. An intensive course that aims to develop an intermediate mid proficiency in Spanish and familiarity with Hispanic culture through practice in the use of the grammatical structures and acquisition of vocabulary stressing language skills. The purpose of instruction is to utilize previous language background to lay a solid foundation for further Spanish language study (advanced level). Satisfactory completion of this course fulfils the prerequisite for Spanish 300-400 level courses.
Pre-Req: WLSP 1040 Spanish 1&2 Intensive, or WLSP 1020 Spanish 2 and Culture.
Enhances the four skills acquired in Spanish 2 and Culture (or equivalent), which is a pre-requisite: speaking, listening, reading and writing through the discovery of the culture of Spanish speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Spanish with minimal use of English). This class is the 3rd of the 4-course Spanish language program offered at UML. Language courses are sequential and must be taken accordingly.
This course has Spanish 3 and Culture (or equivalent) as a pre-requisite and is the 4th and last of the 4-course Spanish language program offered at UML. The course strengthens the four skill acquired in prior levels. It emphasizes increased accuracy and depth of students' abilities and knowledge of the culture of Spanish speaking countries in a communicative approach (instruction occurs in Spanish with almost no use of English). Students express themselves orally and in writing at the national standards level of high-intermediate and understand key-concepts when spoken clearly at native speed.
Pre-req: WLSP.2110 Spanish 3 and Culture, or WLSP.2210 Reading and Conversing in Spanish I.
Spanish Heritage Speakers II
Emphasizes Spanish grammar review and the development of reading and conversational skills. Selected contemporary works provide the basis for developing conversational comprehension and conversational and composition skills. This course is intended for students with a solid foundation in the Spanish language which had been gained from at least three years of high school study immediately prior to admission to the University.
Pre-Req: 54.102 Spanish 2 and Culture.
Discussion of a wide spectrum of contemporary topics with the object of continuing to develop facility and accuracy of expression. Prerequisite: advanced level of proficiency.
Pre-Req: WLSP.2110 Spanish 3 and Culture.
This course will examine relevant works of 20th and 21st century LGBTQ+ Spanish speaking literature and visual representations, including selections from well-known authors and a new generation of writers. We will explore these works within broad social and political contexts that extend from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present day. In this course, we will study how literature serves as a tool both for the expression of same-sex desire and for questioning political and social practices that have traditionally silenced non-heteronormative identities. Finally, we will discuss how LGBTQ+ literature defies aesthetic conventions to expand existing cultural frameworks and to create new ones that align with social and political progress. Taught in Spanish.
Pre-req: WLSP.2120 Spanish 4 and Culture, or WLSP.2040 Intensive Spanish 3 & 4.
This course studies representative literary texts of Spain form its beginnings to present times. The readings exemplify various genres and reveal the complicated series of interactions, conflict, and influences which have contributed to its cultural diversity and relevance in today's global context. Conducted in Spanish.
Pre-req: WLSP.2120 Spanish 4 and Culture, or WLSP.2040 Intensive Spanish 3 and 4, or WLSP.2990 Language-Spanish 2000 level elective.
A study of the major writers of Latin America from Native American literature to the modernist period. The authors and their works are placed in their historical, sociological, and literary perspective, thus introducing students to the Latin American World. Conducted in Spanish.
Pre-Req: WLSP 2110 Spanish 3 and Culture, or WLSP 2120 Spanish 4 and Culture.
A continuation of WLSP 53.3020, Survey of Latin American Literature and Culture I. Conducted in Spanish
An in-depth study of a specific topic in literature, culture, civilization or cinema from Latin American countries. Class discussions, reading, oral and written work all in Spanish. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the Instructor.
This course, taught in English, is for non Spanish majors and minors. It is offered for students who are completing their language requirement through the World Ready option, and have chosen the Spanish track. The course covers a topic of the Spanish-speaking world's culture, civilization, cinema or literature. Class discussions, readings, oral and written work all in English. Other materials could be in target language with translations or subtitles. May be repeated once for credit, if content changes, and with written consent of the instructor.
Considers Spanish culture and civilization up to the present. Through audiovisual aids, current newspapers and selected readings, the student will explore the Spanish way of being, thinking, and living. Emphasis is placed on the main contributions of Spain to the Western world. Conducted in Spanish only.
Contemporary Spanish Culture and Society (1975-present) is a 3 credit course specifically designed for the UML summer faculty-led on-site program in Cadiz, Spain, over a period of 3 weeks (Dates TBA in July and August). Throughout our stay, as a group, we will discuss and exchange about the readings posted in advance on Blackboard (all in English) specifically reflecting upon the connections between what you learned, what you experienced personally in Spain and how different/similar this is from what you expected or imagined1. Class is taught in English.
This course will examine the war as the foundational trauma on which Spanish modernity and its cultural production are based. With this goal in mind, this course will examine the representation and understanding of the Civil War through the lens of Francoist, Communist, and Anarchist discourse. We will explore different ideological representations of the war in conjunction with a variety of aesthetic perspectives, such as realism, avant-garde, testimonial literature, and existentialism. We will also complement the study of literature with the representation of this event through film and photography produced during and after the Civil War.
Involves individual assignments under the sponsorship of local service agencies servicing the Spanish-speaking community involving individual family and group contact. Written and oral reports will be in Spanish.
Considers significant intellectual, artistic, historical, and sociopolitical aspects of Latin America from the beginning of its history. Through audiovisual aids and selected readings, the student will explore the Latin American way of being and expressing.
Focuses on a limited topic of special interest in culture, civilization, or literature. May be taught in English or in Spanish. Course content and approach will vary depending on instructor.
Studies women writers of the Spanish speaking world. Emphasis is given to their contribution to the development of Spanish literature and culture as well as their vision of the world and their concerns for the rights of women and humanity. Conducted in Spanish only.
A systematic study of complex grammatical structures in Spanish. Conducted in Spanish only.
The purpose of this course is to help students make their writing more accurate, organized and to develop students abilities in composition tasks. Specifically, students will learn how to approach the act of writing successfully by focusing on the interaction between writer, reader, purpose, and message. Students will also learn to manage important writing resources such as grammar, vocabulary, rhetorical techniques for organizing information, and strategies for writing through problems, reading critically, revising, and rewriting. Required for Spanish Majors.
The course aims at developing advanced oral proficiency in rapid idiomatic speech. Topics of contemporary significance are selected for discussions. Required for Spanish Majors.
In this course, students examine the various definitions and functions of literary language, and the formal aspects of diverse genre: narrative, poetry and essay. In this course, students also study the concept of literature as aesthetic phenomenon and its socio-cultural implications, through concepts such as author, reader, narrator and discourse, Major authors, themes, and genres from both Latin America and Spain are included, with basic concepts of contemporary literary criticism and theory. Taught in Spanish.
Examines Latin American theatrical works as forms of socially accepted resistance and politically charged art forms. The course will consider plays and performances that challenge governments, inequities, and the status quo. In this course, students will study a variety of Latin American plays, as well as performances an political acts that explore these issues.
Pre-Req: WLSP.2120 Spanish 4 and Culture.
In this course we will explore some of the foundational texts of Hispanic literature while discussing the intersections of political, literary, and cultural traditions that connect the United States with Spain and Latin America.
This course examines the relationship between the Hispanic narrative discourse and cinema, including film adaptations of literary works. Modern social and cultural issues, as well as Hispanic self-images. The selected works provide an array of genres and perspectives that reflect the cultural, historical, and socio-political aspects of each period. Taught in Spanish.
An exploration of representative Spanish and latin American films from a variety of major directors. Areas of investigation include the cinematic representation of nationality, ethnicity, identity, gender, history and politics. This course will be taught in English. Knowledge of Spanish is desirable but not required. Spanish majors and minors will complete written assignments, reviews, quizzes, and exams in Spanish.
Pre-req: WLSP 1020 Spanish 2 and Culture, or WLSP 2040 Intensive Spanish 3 and 4.
Designed for students who need/wish to enhance and advance their linguistic skills in Spanish. Conducted entirely in Spanish, the course will focus on the vocabulary of contemporary Spanish as well as selected grammatical and syntactical structures through the analysis of authentic audio, visual and printed texts. Spanish-speaking media (newspapers, radio, podcasts, TV) are readily available on the Web.
Presents an intensive study of the works by a few Spanish and/or Latin American authors.
In this study of the works of Cervantes participants will complete analysis and readings of either the Don Quijote and/or other works including but not limited to the short stories and the one-act plays.
Cervantes' Don Quijote will examine new ideas and concepts concerning one of the world's greatest novels. Taught in English, there is no language requirement for this course; however, this course is designed to engage student interest in historically and culturally significant events in Golden Age Spain and to - more importantly - expand student interest in literary criticism of the Spanish Golden Age and of Cervantes' masterwork in particular. Because it is taught in English, this course does not count toward the Spanish major or minor.
This course explores the most relevant literary movements of 20th and 21st century Spanish peninsular literature through some of its most renowned authors. We will analyze a selection of literary texts in relation to the literary movements in which they are conceived, such as modernism, avant-garde, tremendism, realism, experimentalism, etc. This course also examines key social and cultural issues related to literature of this period, such as the Spanish Civil War (1936-39) and the emergence of new identities and subjectivities in democratic Spain. This course will help students develop a solid understanding of 20th and 21st century Spanish literary and culture, and its relevance within a larger European and global context.
Offers a study of fundamental aspects of life, thought, land itself and its sense of history as reflected in the literary masterpieces of Valera, Galdos, Alarcon, Pereda, and others. An analysis of the literary techniques and fiction of the Realism will be included.
Pre-req: WLSP.3010 Introduction to Spanish Literature, or WLSP.3500 Introduction to Literary Analysis.
This course will provide an introduction to the work of Jorge Luis Borges. Borges is a fundamental author in the context of both Latin American and World Literature whose influence makes him uniquely important for those who wish to develop their understanding of the Spanish-speaking world. Participants in the course will learn about the social, political, and cultural context specific to 20th -century Argentina as well the development of the author's own literary strategies and ideas.
A study of the development of the Latin American novel. Three major works of Latin American short story writers such as Borges, Cortazar, Marquez, Rulfo.
Individual research projects in Spanish literature. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, develop a course of directed study in Spanish literature and define a problem for individual research. The student's findings are presented in a paper of significant proportions. Permission of Instructor.
Individual research projects in Latin American topics. Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, develop a course of directed study in a specific Latin American topic and define a problem for individual research. The student's findings are presented in a paper of significant proportions. Permission of Instructor.
Students, through regular and frequent consultation with their instructor, develop a course of independent study in Spanish culture and define a problem for individual research. The student's findings are presented in a paper of significant proportions.
A program of directed study which affords advanced students an additional opportunity to pursue a previously explored problem in greater depth or to initiate an additional problem. The purpose is to sharpen and refine techniques for scholarly research and presentation and for creative expression.
A program of on-campus and/or off-campus experiences for Spanish or Modern Language majors only. Specific requirements vary depending upon faculty policies and the nature of the program undertaken by the student. The intent of the practicum experience is to provide an occasion for investigation of a community, social, cultural, or artistic area and for applying techniques of problem solving and/or skills which are appropriate to the student's major discipline. May be repeated for a maximum of nine credits. Students are graded satisfactory, or unsatisfactory. The practicum experience may not be substituted for a required course in the major.