ILAS 199/299/399/499. Independent Study (1-4E)

This course consists of an independent creative or research project designed by the student and supervised by a foreign language faculty member. The nature of the project, the schedule for accomplishment and the means of evaluation must be formalized in a learning contract prior to registration.

ILAS 205. The Latinx Experience in the United States (4)

There has been a long and sometimes conflict-laden relationship between the United States and its Spanish-speaking neighbors to the south. This relationship has become even more important as the world has become more global and multi-cultural in nature. According to the last U.S. census, the Latino/a population in the United States is the largest minority group in the country. This is by no means a minor social event in the history of the American continent. This course is an interdisciplinary introduction to the study of Americans of Latino descent in the United States across time and space. The course concentrates on two main issues: 1) the past and current social situation and cultural expressions of these groups within U.S. society; and 2) the construction of the terms “Hispanic” and “Latino/a” as labels used to represent a diverse ethnic/cultural constituency. The course uses an array of interdisciplinary readings and other materials from the fields of history, political science, anthropology, sociology, literature and cultural studies.

ILAS 210. Latin American Cultural Studies (4)

This course defines Cultural Studies from a Latin American perspective and examines its contribution to the continuing reinvention of Latin America and enhancement of intellectual exchanges and debates between Latin America and the Western World. It also examines how Latin American Cultural Studies addresses colonialism and postcolonial theories. The course operates with a broad understanding of culture, one that encompasses literatures, languages, political discourses, social movements, indigenous perspectives on colonialism and modernity, as well as different cultural production practices such as film, music, plastic art, theater and performace. Since Cultural Studies leads us to understand the politics of culture beyond the borders of disciplines, students in this course will experience a strong interdisciplinary approach to different practices and events through which culture either strengthens or counters structures of power.

ILAS 315. Latin American Literature in Translation (4)

This course uses literary expression to deepen understanding of Latin American perspectives on a variety of cultural and historical issues. While incorporating film, essays, art and basic historical background, the course focuses on short stories, poems, plays and/or novels from various countries, including the United States, in order to familiarize students with a variety of genres. Since the course is in English, we will also address issues of translation. The course may offer a particular focus of particular relevance to the region, depending on the professor. Topics covered may include national identity; gender and sexuality; experimental representations of reality; ethnicity and social class; religion; memory and history. Familiarity with the region or its languages is not a prerequisite. 

ILAS 340. Social Change and Musical Expression in Latin America (4)

This course focuses on the relationship between social change and musical expression in Latin America. Special importance will be given to how music either resists or contributes to the formation of local and national identities within various developing democracies. Specific examples of Latin American social and political cultures will be studied with a focus on the production and interpretation of music during crucial historical moments. Various styles, genres, and artists will be analyzed with an emphasis on their cultural significance during moments of political, social and cultural transition in Latin America.

ILAS 350. Latin American Cinema (4)

This course will analyze various contemporary Latin American films with an emphasis on how each one reflects or rejects its particular social, political, and cultural context. Special attention will be paid to how each work engages the balance between what may be perceived as the traditional characteristics of a particular local identity and the changes of that identity due to economic, political and cultural fluctuations. The representation of gender, race, class and identity in each film will be emphasized.

ILAS 493/494. St. Mary’s Project (8E)

A student-initiated and student-executed project of eight credit hours is the senior capstone experience. While the thesis can be written in English, a significant Spanish language component is expected. The project may be a research project in literary or cultural studies, a creative-expressive project involving arts, or a pedagogical project involving teaching applications. Also, depending on the focus of the student’s interests, the project can be single or multi-disciplinary based. Whatever the nature of the project, students must demonstrate in it: 1) linguistic competence equal to the task, 2) a method of approach and execution appropriate to the task, 3) adequate knowledge of the particular area of research or endeavor, 4) an ability to analyze and reflect upon this knowledge in order to integrate it with knowledge in other areas of inquiry or performance, and 5) the readiness to critically discuss and publicly share the results of the project. Prerequisites: ILCT 393; approval of a faculty project mentor; approval of the department chair. NOTE: Students whose projects are to be based on material collected “in the field” while studying abroad during their junior year or while engaged in off-campus apprenticeships or internships should discuss their plans with a faculty adviser as early as the second semester of their sophomore year. This course is repeatable for up to eight credit hours.

ILCT 106. Introduction to World Literature (4F)

Literature is an expression of a particular culture’s highest aspirations. By studying the literary expressions that have developed within varying cultural traditions, we can come to a richer understanding of the breadth and depth of the human experience, and we can also develop a greater sensitivity to cultural multiplicity. This course provides an opportunity to study, at some depth, literary texts produced within traditions that are not encompassed by the English-speaking world. Since, by necessity, we will be reading translated materials, we will also look at questions of translation, both linguistically and culturally. The specific content of the course will vary. Topics that may be covered include Latin American literature, Francophone literature, various European literatures, as well as comparative and thematic literary topics.

ILCT 199/299/399/499. Independent Study (1-4E)

This course consists of an independent creative or research project designed by the student and supervised by a foreign language faculty member. The nature of the project, the schedule for accomplishment, and the means of evaluation must be formalized in a learning contract prior to registration.

ILCT 293. Introduction to Cultural Studies (2E)

This course must be taken as a pre- or co-requisite to the first 300-level course in ILCC/ILCF/or ILCS by those students planning to major in international languages and cultures; students planning to fulfill the requirements for a minor in one of the languages, or to take upper-level courses in one of the language concentrations, should consult with a faculty adviser in international languages and cultures to determine whether and when it would be appropriate to take this course.

This course introduces students to recent scholarship in the area of cultural studies theory. Students will be exposed to a variety of approaches to textual analysis, be it the text of books found within an established literary tradition, the text of expressions within popular culture, or the text of a given social experience in its broadest sense. Students will learn how to use the insights generated by the discipline of cultural studies to better understand and comment about the cultures that they study within the curriculum in the Chinese, French, Latin American Studies and Spanish programs. By comparison and contrast, students will also come to a better understanding of how U.S. society fits within a globalized cultural context.

ILCT 300. Introduction to Linguistics (4AF)

This course will study the principles governing language structure and its use. Both formal and applied aspects of linguistics theory will be considered. On the formal side, the sound, word and sentence structure will be studied. On the applied side, first- and second-language acquisition, historical, social, computer- and neuro-linguistics will be considered. Data will be drawn from both English and other languages. This course satisfies a math requirement for teacher certification in foreign languages.

ILCT 301. French and Francophone Studies in Translation (4AF)

The study of major works in the French-speaking literary traditions of Europe, Africa, or the Americas; or the study of basic philosophical, moral, social and political dilemmas of French-speaking societies. May be repeated for credit.

ILCT 303. Hispanic Studies in Translation (4AS)

Study of major works in the Spanish-speaking literary traditions of Europe and the Americas, or the study of basic philosophical, moral, social and political dilemmas of Spanish-speaking societies. May be repeated for credit.

ILCT 393. St. Mary’s Project Workshop (2S)

This course must be taken prior to the term in which the student begins his or her St. Mary’s Project. The St. Mary’s Project Workshop prepares students for their St. Mary’s Project in international languages and cultures by teaching them how to frame a project and by stimulating independent and creative activity. Students will learn to relate their scholarly and creative interests to major issues in their fields and to the linguistic and cultural traditions represented in the department. Students will have an opportunity to explore the possibilities for St. Mary’s Projects within the major: literary analysis, cultural analysis, pedagogical application, linguistic study, translation, creative writing. They will also be guided to write a proposal for their St. Mary’s Projects. Visitors from inside and outside the College will discuss their critical and/or artistic work with the seminar participants and serve as models. Prerequisite: Advanced knowledge of a foreign language and junior standing or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 101. Elementary French I (4E)

An introduction to the basic structures of spoken and written French, and an introduction to French culture through language. This course is for students beginning the study of French.

ILCF 102. Elementary French II (4E)

A continuation of the study of basic grammar. Increased attention is given to conversation skills and short writing assignments. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCF 101 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCF 199/299/399/499. Independent Study (1-4E)

This course consists of an independent creative or research project designed by the student and supervised by a foreign language faculty member. The nature of the project, the schedule for accomplishment, and the means of evaluation must be formalized in a learning contract prior to registration. (See “Independent Study” under “Academic Policies” section.)

ILCF 201. Intermediate French I (4E)

This course will review grammatical structures studied in the first year of French and introduce new ones. It will build vocabulary through short readings and exercises. Students will integrate the formal aspect of language with personal content through the discussion of texts and issues and through the composing of short essays. Energetic student participation in class is assumed throughout the course. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCF 102 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCF 202. Intermediate French II (4E)

This course will continue and complete the review begun in ILCF 201 of all the basic structures of the French language. Students should be able, by the end of the course, to express themselves and their ideas indicatively, imperatively, hypothetically, in the subjunctive mood, and in all time frames. Reading and writing skills will be further developed through the introduction of increasingly challenging reading materials and more elaborate writing assignments. Steady and vigorous student participation in class will continue to be assumed. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCF 201 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCF 206. Introduction to Literature in French (4S)

Students will study short literary texts representing several periods and genres. Particular attention will be paid to the social and historical context of the literature. Grammar will be reviewed only as needed. Written assignments will be based primarily on the readings. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirements if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCF 202 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCF 355. Culture and Civilization I: Metropolitan France (4AF)

A study of the structure and historical evolution of contemporary French society and culture. Prerequisite: ILCF 206 or consent of instructor.

ILCF 356. Culture and Civilization II: The Francophone World (4AF)

Culture and Civilization II: The Francophone World

This course will address the cultural evolution and ethos of French-speaking nations outside of Europe and the unique role of non-European French-speaking societies in the modern world. Prerequisite: ILCF 206 or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 360. Advanced Grammar and Translation (4AS)

In-depth study of specific grammatical and stylistic structures. Application of grammatical knowledge to the task of translating a variety of texts from French into English and from English into French. Prerequisite: ILCF 206 or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 362. Topics in French Literature I: From the Middle Ages to the French Revolution (4AS)

Close study of selected major literary works from the Middle Ages to the end of the Ancien Régime. The course will normally focus on a theme, movement, or genre which links the selected works in a common or conflicting tradition. Previous topics have included “Self and Society: From the Age of Chivalry to Absolutism” and “French Theater in the 17th and 18th Centuries.” Class discussion and short papers will aim at developing the ability to read literature critically. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: ILCF 206 or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 363. Topics in French Literature II: Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries (4AS)

Close study of selected major literary works from the beginning of the 19th century to the present, including those from French-speaking societies outside France. The course will normally focus on a theme, movement, or genre which links the selected works in a common or conflicting tradition. Previous topics have included “Representations of “la femme fatale” in the 19th and 20th Centuries” and “Desire in the Contemporary Novel.” Class discussion and short papers will aim at developing the ability to read literature critically. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: ILCF 206 or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 364. Topics in Francophone Literature (4AF)

Close study of selected major literary works from French-speaking societies outside France. This course will normally focus on a theme, movement, or genre which links the selected works in a common or conflicting tradition. Previous topics have included “Francophone Literatures of the Americas: From Québec to the Antilles” and “Literature and History: The Francophone Novel.” Class discussion and short papers will aim at developing the ability to read literature critically. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: ILCF 206 or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 440. Special Topics in French or Francophone Studies in French (4AS)

Advanced study of a topic, theme, problem, or major figure in French or Francophone literature and culture. Previous topics have included “French Notions of Monstrosity”; “Sexing the City: Urban Space and Subversive Sexualities” and, “French and Francophone Film and the Human Condition.” May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: two 300-level French courses or consent of the instructor.

ILCF 493/494. St. Mary’s Project (1-8E)

A student-initiated and student-executed project of eight credit hours is the senior capstone experience, to be carried out in the French language. Depending on the nature of the project, some components may be written in English, with the approval of the mentor. The project may be a research project in literary or cultural studies, a creative-expressive project involving the arts, or a pedagogical project involving teaching applications. Also, depending on the focus of the student’s course work and interests, the project can be single or multi-disciplinary based. Whatever the nature of the project, students must demonstrate in it: 1) linguistic competence equal to the task; 2) a method of approach and execution appropriate to the task; 3) adequate knowledge of the particular area of research or endeavor; 4) an ability to analyze and reflect upon this knowledge in order to integrate it with knowledge in other areas of inquiry or performance; and 5) the readiness to critically discuss and publicly share the results of the project. Prerequisites: ILCT 393; approval of a faculty project mentor; approval of the department chair. NOTE: Students whose projects are to be based on material collected “in the field” while studying abroad during their junior year or while engaged in off-campus apprenticeships or internships should discuss their plans with a faculty adviser as early as the second semester of their sophomore year. This course is repeatable for up to a total of eight credit hours.

ILCC 101. Elementary Chinese I (4F)

An introduction to the basic structure of spoken and written Chinese for the student beginning the study of Chinese. Introduction to Chinese culture and its relation to the language.

ILCC 102. Elementary Chinese II (4S)

A continuation of the study of basic grammar with increased attention given to conversation skills. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement.   Prerequisite: ILCC 101 or consent of the instructor.

ILCC 199/299/399/499. Independent Study (1-4E)

This course consists of an independent creative or research project designed by the student and supervised by a foreign language faculty member. The nature of the project, the schedule for accomplishment, and the means of evaluation must be formalized in a learning contract prior to registration. (See “Independent Study” under “Academic Policies” section.)

ILCC 201. Intermediate Chinese I (4F)

A continuation of the study of grammar, with additional practice in speaking, writing and reading. Prerequisite: ILCC 102 or consent of the instructor. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement.

ILCC 202. Intermediate Chinese II (4S)

While continuing to study the grammatical constructions of basic Chinese, students are also introduced to reading and writing at greater levels of complexity. Prerequisite: ILCC 201 or consent of the instructor. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement.

ILCC 355. Advanced Chinese: Chinese Culture (4AF)

Through newspaper articles, short stories and essays, TV plays and movies, students will study issues underlying today’s China: democratization, education, women, economic reform and conflicts between modernization and tradition. Grammar will be reviewed as needed. May be repeated for credit. Formerly ILCC 335. Prerequisite: ILCC 202 or consent of the instructor.

ILCC 356. Advanced Chinese: Chinese Culture II (4AS)

China was relatively isolated until the end of the 19th century. Through essays, movies and excerpts of literary texts by Chinese intellectuals since that time, the class will study how the Chinese view themselves in the world and how they propose to resolve the tension between tradition and modernization. Grammar will be reviewed as needed. Class discussion and short papers will aim at an understanding of Chinese culture through Chinese eyes. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: ILCC 202 or consent of the instructor.

ILCC 362. Advanced Chinese: Introduction to Literature (4AF)

Students will study short literary texts representing several periods and genres. Particular attention will be paid to the social and historical context of the literature. Grammar will be reviewed as needed. Written assignments will be based primarily on the readings. May be repeated for credit. Formerly ILCC 306. Prerequisite: ILCC 202 or consent of the instructor.

ILCC 363. Topics in Chinese Literature (4AS)

Close study of selected major literary works from the May Fourth Period to the Post-Mao Era. The course will normally focus on a theme, movement, genre or period which links the selected works in a common or conflicting tradition. Students will write short papers, reflecting both on the content and the style of the literary works. Grammar will be reviewed as needed. May be repeated for credit. Formerly ILCC 307. Prerequisite: ILCC 202 or consent of the instructor.

ILCC 493/494. St. Mary’s Project (8E)

A student-initiated and student-executed project of eight credit-hours is the senior capstone experience. While the thesis can be written in English, a significant Chinese language component is expected. The project may be a research project in literary or cultural studies, a creative-expressive project involving arts, or a pedagogical project involving teaching applications. Also, depending on the focus of the student’s interests, the project can be single or multi-disciplinary based. Whatever the nature of the project, students must demonstrate in it: 1) linguistic competence equal to the task, 2) a method of approach and execution appropriate to the task, 3) adequate knowledge of the particular area of research or endeavor, 4) an ability to analyze and reflect upon this knowledge in order to integrate it with knowledge in other areas of inquiry or performance, and 5) the readiness to critically discuss and publicly share the results of the project. Prerequisites: ILCT 493; approval of a faculty project mentor; approval of the department chair. NOTE: Students whose projects are to be based on material collected “in the field” while studying abroad during their junior year or while engaged in off-campus apprenticeships or internships should discuss their plans with a faculty adviser as early as the second semester of their sophomore year. This course is repeatable for up to eight credit-hours.

ILCS 101. Elementary Spanish I (4E)

An introduction to the basic structures of spoken and written Spanish and an introduction to Hispanic cultures as expressed in language and other cultural forms. This course is for students beginning the study of Spanish. Each section of ILCS 101 focuses on a specific culture topic.

ILCS 102. Elementary Spanish II (4E)

A continuation of the study of basic grammar and Hispanic cultures begun in ILCS 101, with further attention to communicative goals. Each section of ILCS 102 focuses on a specific cultural topic. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCS 101 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCS 110. Accelerated Elementary Spanish (4E)

An accelerated study of the communicative and cultural material presented in ILCS 101 and ILCS 102. Designed for students who have some prior knowledge of Spanish. Each section of ILCS 110 focuses on a specific cultural topic. Prerequisite: Admission determined by Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCS 199/299/399/499. Independent Study (1-4E)

This course consists of an independent creative or research project designed by the student and supervised by a foreign language faculty member. The nature of the project, the schedule for accomplishment, and the means of evaluation must be formalized in a learning contract prior to registration. (See “Independent Study” under “Academic Policies” section.)

ILCS 201. Intermediate Spanish I (4E)

This course is the first half of the intermediate level sequence in Spanish language. Students will review and deepen their mastery of key grammatical structures studied in the first year of Spanish, and build on this foundation by studying additional structures. Emphasis will be given to developing proficiency in the use of the past tense and in developing a working use of the subjunctive mood. Particular attention will also be paid to social and historical contexts of Spanish speaking countries. Class participation will also be strongly emphasized. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisites: ILCS 102 or 110 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCS 202. Intermediate Spanish II (4E)

This course is the second half of the intermediate level sequence in Spanish language. Students will continue to work towards mastering all grammatical structures in the indicative mood and will deepen their proficiency in the subjunctive. The continued development of reading and writing skills will also be emphasized with the incorporation of authentic readings and written research project. Class participation will continue to be strongly emphasized. This course satisfies the Core Exploration Cultural Literacy requirement if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCS 201 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCS 260. Composition for Cultural Analysis (4E)

Students will develop proficiency in critical thought through the reading, viewing, and analytical discussion of major genres and styles of cultural materials selected from the Spanish-speaking world. Particular attention will be paid to the social and historical context of the cultural materials. Written compositions will be the vehicle for applying analytical skills, reviewing grammar, and preparing for advanced level work in Spanish. This course satisfies the Core Curriculum requirement in Cultural Perspectives if not used to satisfy the Core Curriculum International Language requirement. Prerequisite: ILCS 202 or equivalent as determined by the Foreign Language Proficiency Test.

ILCS 360. Advanced Writing Workshop (4)

Close study of grammatical and stylistic structures as they apply to various writing assignments, including translations between English and Spanish. Writing assignments, grammar review and discussions in a workshop format will provide the methodology for developing each student’s self-expression in Spanish, and for improving mastery of grammar and composition. As a final project, students will produce a publication of their work. Prerequisite: ILCS 202, or ILCS206, or ILCS260 or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 361. Indigenous Cultures in Latin America (4)

Indigenous cultures in Latin America began to develop a rich tradition as early as two thousand years before the Christian era. These traditions led to the rise of highly complex civilizations. In certain places of Latin America, such as Guatemala, southern Mexico, and the Andean region of South America, indigenous cultures are still extant. In this course we will explore both the current realities of indigenous cultures in parts of Latin America, as well as pre-Columbian and colonial antecedents. The content of the course will vary, sometimes focusing more on historical background and at other times on contemporary conditions; at times the course may focus on a single indigenous tradition, and at others may provide a more panoramic perspective. Readings will be in Spanish. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS260 or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 362. African Diaspora Cultural Expressions in Latin America (4)

This course explores the myriad historical, cultural and artistic contributions of African culture(s) in the Diaspora to the formation of the Hispanic world — including Spain, the American mainland, and the Caribbean. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS260 or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 363. Cultural Perspectives on Gender (4)

This course focuses on cultural constructions of gender as they are represented in literature, art, film and /or social movements. Special attention will be given to individual and collective strategies to redefine traditional cultural values related to gender. We will also consider how the relationships among gender, race, and social class affect who produces national discourse and how. Artistic and social expression from different historical periods in Spanish, Latin American, and/or Latino/a cultures will be the basis of our discussions. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS260 or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 365. Creating for Social Change (4)

Historically, as well as today, there is a link between cultural production and the commitment to address social concerns in both Latin America and Spain. This course explores the ethical and aesthetic aspects of texts which have as their obvious aim the promotion of social change within the societies where they were produced. Students will study, translate, and/or create original texts that explore these aims, depending on the instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS260 or the consent of the instructor.

ILCS 372. Multicultural Characteristics of Early Modern Spain (4)

This course examines the social, economic, cultural, and artistic evolution of the Iberian Peninsula from the Muslim invasion in the 8th century to the beginning of the Spanish Empire’s decline in the 17th century. Selected works will be examined as manifestations, critiques and defenses of the political, social and cultural characteristics of Spain’s development into the world’s most powerful empire. Special attention will be given to the influence various cultures within the Peninsula, as well as Spain’s contact with its colonies, had on the formation of its identity as a modern state. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS260 or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 373. The Invention of Latin America (4)

The notion of Latin America arose from experiences of colonialism and postcolonialism, and as such, is a notion that has been invented and reinvented from the outside and also from within. This course examines those inventions and reinventions in creative expressions and social actions from the independence wars of the nineteenth century to the mid-twentieth century. Special consideration will be given to particular national discourses, especially in relation to race, class, gender, anti-colonialism, and revolution, and to the concept of modernity in Latin America that is problematized by highly uneven social and economic development. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS 260, or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 374. Latin America and Globalization (4)

Globalization first described economic developments and has now broadened to encompass ideas about cultural phenomena and global relationships of power in the current era. The socio-political changes since the 1970s in Latin America have created a re-evaluation of popular cultures, of political participation, and of regional and national identities by many writers, artists, and activists. This course explores these ideas from Latin American perspectives through literature and other cultural expressions. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, ILCS 260, or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 390. Spanish in the Community (4AF)

This is a community-based-learning course conducted entirely in Spanish in the classroom and in English and/or Spanish in the community. The heart of the course is approximately 15 hours of work tutoring elementary school children from Spanish-speaking families in St. Mary’s County. Other activities to support the Spanish-speaking community might arise depending on need, such as helping at local events, translating, working with other community partners, or tutoring English to Spanish-speaking adults. Class time has the purpose of contextualizing students’ experience in the community and deepening their self-reflection and collaboration with community partners. In-class topics include topic-specific vocabulary, perspectives on and from the Latina/o community and Latin America about education and immigration, concepts of community citizenship, local and national immigrant communities from Latin America, and current events in immigration. This course satisfies the core curriculum requirement in ELAW. Prerequisite: ILCS 206, or ILCS 260, or ILCS 360, or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 440. Special Topics in Hispanic Studies (4AS)

Advanced study of a topic, theme, problem, or major figure in Hispanic literature or culture. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Two 300-level ILCS courses or consent of the instructor.

ILCS 493/494. St. Mary’s Project (1-8E)

A student-initiated and student-executed project of eight credit hours is the senior capstone experience, to be carried out in Spanish. Depending on the nature of the project, some components may be written in English, with the approval of the mentor. The project may be a research project in literary or cultural studies, a creative-expressive project involving the arts, or a pedagogical project involving teaching applications. Also, depending on the focus of the student’s course work and interests, the project can be single or multi-disciplinary based. Whatever the nature of the project, students must demonstrate in it: 1) linguistic competence equal to the task; 2) a method of approach and execution appropriate to the task; 3) adequate knowledge of the particular area of research or endeavor; 4) an ability to analyze and reflect upon this knowledge in order to integrate it with knowledge in other areas of inquiry or performance; and 5) the readiness to critically discuss and publicly share the results of the project. Prerequisites: ILCT 393; approval of a faculty project mentor; approval of the department chair. NOTE: Students whose projects are to be based on material collected “in the field” while studying abroad during their junior year or while engaged in off-campus apprenticeships or internships should discuss their plans with a faculty adviser as early as the second semester of their sophomore year. This course is repeatable for up to a total of eight credit hours.