Contemporary French society examined through theoretical reading and discussion as well as directed experiential observation. Explicit reference to French and American perceptions of cultural concepts so as to provide ideas, insights, and methods by which to understand and analyze the two societies. Readings, reports, discussions, field projects, and use of local resources comprise the work of the course. Intensive study of the fundamentals of Italian grammar, with a view to developing reading, writing, speaking, and understanding skills. Laboratory and other audiovisual techniques are used.
Cultural elements are stres sed as a context for the assimilation of the language.
Intensive introduction to conversation and composition, with special attention to grammar review and refinement. Essays, fiction and theater, as well as Italian television and films, provide opportunities to improve familiarity with contemporary Italian language and civilization. Written Expression and Textual Analysis. Designed to increase the student's awareness of various rhetorical conventions and command of written Italian through analysis and imitation of model texts of a literary and non-literary nature. Designed to increase the student's comprehension and command of spoken Italian, this course is also an initiation in everyday verbal transactions and cultural communication prevalent in contemporary Italy.