This course serves as an introduction to the Spanish language and culture. Basic listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and sharing skills are developed. Communication skills are the primary focus of this course. At the end of Level I, students will be able to express themselves and engage in simple conversation in Spanish within the limits of their knowledge of vocabulary and structure.

The basic skills learned in Spanish I are broadened to include all verb tenses and grammatical structures, in addition to a greatly expanded vocabulary. Listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and presenting skills are stressed with an emphasis on oral language proficiency. Students also study ancient Aztec, Incan, and Mayan cultures as well as modern Hispanic customs. While knowledge of other cultures, connections to other disciplines, comparisons between languages and cultures, and community interactions all contribute to and enhance the communicative language learning experience, communicative skills are the primary focus of this course.