THE DEPARTMENT OF

MODERN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES

As the number of Spanish-speaking students increases in our schools, educators across the country search for ways to reach these young people.  To assist in this important effort, the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at Emporia State University is pleased to announce the Spanish for Teachers program.  This certificate program began in the fall semester of 2001. 

Our goal is to establish an ongoing program for educators and future educators who need training in Hispanic culture and in the Spanish language.  Recognizing the many demands on the time of those who teach in our schools, flexibility is our guiding principle.  We intend to make the program available to as many potential participants as possible by employing a variety of instructional media and by offering an innovative and flexible schedule.  Some traditional classroom instruction is included, but the majority of the program will be presented in other ways.

The Spanish for Teachers program includes the following four courses.  Participation is welcome at any level, but to receive the Spanish for Teachers certificate, participants must complete SA 130: Intensive Spanish and 3 additional hours.  Graduate credit is available for SA 301 and 305 with prior approval.

SA 130: Intensive Spanish .  (2 credit hours)  This intensive night course will be devoted primarily to conversation and to providing as many opportunities for hearing, speaking, and reading Spanish as possible.  Music, video clips, guest speakers from the community, short readings, and panel discussions will give students the opportunity to hear and assimilate structures, vocabulary, and key cultural issues. 

SA 135: The Essentials of Spanish Grammar . (1 credit hours)  This internet course will lead students through an introduction to the grammatical structures of the Spanish language. This study of grammar will prepare educators to use and understand simple phrases and to anticipate meaning based on familiarity with grammatical patterns. 

SA 305: Summer Study in Latin America .  (1-4 credit hours, graduate credit available)  Participants who are able to do so are encouraged to join one of the summer study programs led by ESU faculty members.  These two and three-week programs combine formal instruction with the total immersion in the language only available through travel.  Participants live with native families, study Spanish during the morning hours, and spend the afternoons and weekends enjoying the historical, cultural, and natural marvels of Costa Rica or México.

Contact Dr. Elizabeth.