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Catalog
2011-2012

Department/Program:

Modern Languages

The department introduces students to the complexities of other cultures through the study of another language. Learning a foreign language fosters the ability to cope with the unfamiliar, both linguistically and culturally, and to value diversity and understand interdependence. The study of modern foreign languages prepares students to deal empathetically with people of other cultures and backgrounds, both within our country and abroad. 

The department stresses proficiency-oriented teaching methodologies that are supported by appropriate technologies. The proficiency orientation stresses contextual and practical use of language; therefore the language is used in the classroom as much as possible. Modern language study at Nebraska Wesleyan University offers students the opportunity to enhance their personal and professional opportunities regardless of their majors and future career goals.

Majors

The department offers majors in French, German, and Spanish. To complete a major, one must complete a minimum of 31 credit hours including 1 credit hour for a senior project. The minimum 31 hours must include 25 hours beyond Stage IV (102) and at least one 3-credit literature course. Twelve of these hours must be earned in a semester abroad in the language of their major. The department also requires an exit interview of its graduates.

Up to 9 hours of retroactive credit (advanced credit) is available for 101, 102, and 201 upon the completion of the appropriate higher-level course with a grade of “B” (3.00) or better. Students will qualify for placement at advanced levels through testing results and/or other criteria that the department determines relevant. In no case may one complete a major with fewer than 12 credit hours earned in residence within the department.

Students majoring in French, German, or Spanish are required to incorporate a study abroad experience of one semester (12+ credit hours) in the language of their major. For information on the many available exchange programs and financial aid and scholarship options, students should talk with the Director of International Education and visit the library of study abroad resources. Following study abroad, a major needs to complete one additional 3 hour upper-level course in residence at Nebraska Wesleyan, plus the 1 hour senior comprehensive.

Majors preparing to teach a modern language should consult the education department.

**In the exceptional circumstance of a student who has already declared a first major in another department with the intent of earning a B.S. degree, a student may submit a petition to the Department of Modern Languages seeking permission to declare a second major in language for a B.S. degree.

Minors

A minor in French, German, or Spanish requires at least 15 hours above Stage II in a single language, including both 201 and 202 in that language. For students studying language abroad, a minor requires at least one upper-level course in the language in residence at NWU. In no case may one earn a minor with fewer than 4 hours at Nebraska Wesleyan University.

Up to 9 hours of retroactive credit (advanced credit) is available for 101, 102, and 201 upon the completion of the appropriate higher-level course with a grade of “B” (3.00) or better. Students will qualify for placement at advanced levels through testing results and/or other criteria that the department determines relevant.

 

Courses

CHIN 001 Mandarin Chinese: Stage I (5 hours)

An introductory course on Mandarin Chinese designed to develop skills in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and culture with emphasis on practical communication.

CHIN 002 Mandarin Chinese: Stage II (5 hours)

Continuation of CHIN-001.

FRNCH 001 French: Stage I (4 hours)

An introduction to the French language designed to develop skills in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and culture, with emphasis on practical communication.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

FRNCH 002 French: Stage II (4 hours)

Continuation of FRNCH-001.

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-001 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

FRNCH 090 Selected Topics in French (1-3 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses for students who have not reached the intermediate level. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

FRNCH 101 French: Stage III (3 hours)

FRNCH-101 is the first in a two-part sequence of intermediate-level French, designed to build upon basic language concepts acquired in introductory-level courses, expand cultural knowledge, and increase confidence while enhancing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in French.

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-002 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

FRNCH 102 French: Stage IV (3 hours)

Continuation of FRNCH-101.

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-101 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

FRNCH 190 Selected Topics in French (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide intermediate-level study of subject matter in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

FRNCH 201 French Conversation and Composition (3 hours)

A course designed to provide intensive practice in speaking and writing French with a detailed study of grammatical and stylistic usage.

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-102 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

FRNCH 202 French Conversation and Composition (3 hours)

Continuation of FRNCH-201.

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-201 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

FRNCH 203 French Phonetics (3 hours)

A study with practical exercises of the sound system of French. Includes readings, oral interpretations, and recorded laboratory exercises. (Not open to native speakers of French.)

Prerequisite(s): Two years of French or permission of the department.

FRNCH 204 French Culture and Civilization (3 hours)

A course dealing with the literature, culture, and contributions of France to civilization, with emphasis on contemporary culture, history, and life in France. (Not open to native speakers of French.)

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-202 or permission of the department.

FRNCH 206 French Literature of the Nineteenth Century (3 hours)

Emphasis is on short fiction and poetry. (Not open to native speakers of French.)

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-202 or permission of the department.

FRNCH 207 French Literature of the Twentieth Century (3 hours)

An introduction to the prose, drama, and poetry of modern France. (Not open to native speakers of French.)

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-202 or permission of the department.

FRNCH 208 Business French (3 hours)

An introduction to French business language and practices, emphasizing vocabulary and cultural awareness. (Not open to native speakers of French.)

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-202 or permission of the department.

FRNCH 209 Francophone Literatures (3 hours)

Reading, discussion, and analysis of selected texts from across the Francophone literary tradition. Areas of focus are one or more of the following regions: Africa, the Caribbean, or Canada. May be repeated if region is different.

FRNCH 290 Selected Topics in French (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide advanced study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students. (Not open to native speakers of French.)

Prerequisite(s): FRNCH-202 or permission of the department.

FRNCH 295 Independent Study (1-3 hours)

Independent Study

GERMN 001 German: Stage I (4 hours)

An introduction to the German language designed to develop skills in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and culture, with emphasis on practical communication.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

GERMN 002 German: Stage II (4 hours)

Continuation of GERMN-001.

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-001 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

GERMN 090 Selected Topics in German (1-3 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses for students who have not reached the intermediate level. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

GERMN 101 German: Stage III (3 hours)

GERMN-101 is the first in a two-part sequence of intermediate-level German, designed to build upon basic language concepts acquired in introductory-level courses, expand cultural knowledge, and increase confidence while enhancing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in German.

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-002 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

GERMN 102 German: Stage IV (3 hours)

Continuation of GERMN-101.

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-101 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

GERMN 190 Selected Topics in German (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide intermediate-level study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

GERMN 195 Special Projects (1-3 hours)

Special Projects

GERMN 201 German Conversation and Composition (3 hours)

A course designed to provide intensive practice in speaking and writing German with a detailed study of grammatical and stylistic usage.

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-102 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

GERMN 202 German Conversation and Composition (3 hours)

A continuation of GERMN-201.

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-201 or equivalent.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

GERMN 204 German Culture and Civilization (3 hours)

An introduction to culture and daily life in contemporary Germany providing an overview of language, customs, social interaction, the arts, history, politics, the economy, and Germany's role in the European Union. Students should gain insight into how these factors affect the lives of Germans today. (Not open to native speakers of German.)

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-202 or permission of the department.

GERMN 206 German Literature of the Nineteenth Century (3 hours)

Emphasis is on short fiction and poetry. (Not open to native speakers of German.)

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-202 or permission of the department.

GERMN 207 Modern German Literature (3 hours)

An introduction to prose, drama, and poetry of Germany, Austria and Switzerland since 1900. (Not open to native speakers of German.)

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-202 or permission of the department.

GERMN 208 Business German (3 hours)

An introduction to German business language and practices, emphasizing vocabulary and cultural awareness. (Not open to native speakers of German.)

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-202 or permission of the department.

GERMN 209 Media Images of Europe in German-Speaking Countries (3 hours)

This course is designed to introduce students to current topics of the German language media. The scope of topics will vary by semester, but will include politics, social issues, culture, the economy, history as it informs the current situation, immigration, and environmental issues. Original language texts from German-language print and online newspapers and magazines, as well as radio and TV broadcasts, will serve as the primary texts and basis for class discussion and projects. Students will also have an opportunity to compare and contrast German coverage of some global and local events with news coverage in the U.S. (Not open to native speakers of German.)

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-202 or permission of the department.

GERMN 290 Selected Topics in German (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide advanced study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students. (Not open to native speakers of German.)

Prerequisite(s): GERMN-202 or permission of the department chair.

JAPAN 001 Japanese: Stage I (5 hours)

An introduction to the Japanese language designed to develop skills in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and culture, with emphasis on practical communication.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

JAPAN 002 Japanese: Stage II (5 hours)

Continuation of JAPAN-001.

Prerequisite(s): JAPAN-001.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

JAPAN 101 Japanese: Stage III (5 hours)

JAPAN-101 is the first in a two-part sequence of intermediate-level Japanese, designed to build upon basic language concepts acquired in introductory-level courses, expand cultural knowledge, and increase confidence while enhancing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Japanese.

Prerequisite(s): JAPAN-002.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

JAPAN 102 Japanese: Stage IV (5 hours)

Continuation of JAPAN-101.

Prerequisite(s): JAPAN-101.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

JAPAN 190 Selected Topics in Japanese (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide intermediate-level study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

JAPAN 290 Selected Topics in Japanese (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide advanced study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

Prerequisite(s): JAPAN-102.

MLANG 090 Selected Topics in Modern Languages (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide lower-level study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

MLANG 134 Masterpieces of European Literature (3 hours)

Readings, written composition, and discussion of a selection of significant European writers from the Renaissance to modern times.

MLANG 190 Selected Topics in Modern Languages (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide intermediate level study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

MLANG 295 Independent Study (1-12 hours)

An opportunity for a student to engage in advanced, supervised, individual field, lab, or library research. Independent study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department.

MLANG 296 Special Projects (1-15 hours)

Supervised work on an approved project involving subject matter not included in any of the standard courses. Projects are normally developed individually but may be developed in organized groups. Students should designate the area of work and seek departmental approval in the semester prior to registration. When MLANG-296 is taken to fulfill the senior comprehensive requirement, the exit interview process will be part of the course requirements.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department.

MLANG 297 Internship (1-3 hours)

The language internship is designed for those students who wish to pursue an experience using the target language outside the traditional classroom environment. It is the responsibility of the student to secure a situation with an appropriate sponsor. With the help of the appropriate faculty member, the student should design an internship according to departmental guidelines. A maximum of 2 hours may be applied toward the major. When the Internship is taken to fulfill the senior comprehensive requirement, the exit interview process will be part of the course requirements.

Pass/fail only.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department.

SPAN 001 Spanish: Stage I (4 hours)

An introduction to the Spanish language designed to develop skills in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and culture, with emphasis on practical communication.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

SPAN 002 Spanish: Stage II (4 hours)

Continuation of SPAN-001.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-001 or placement into SPAN-002.

(Normally offered each semester.)

SPAN 005 Spanish: Spanish for Communication (3 hours)

SPAN-005 is designed to offer an opportunity for learners to develop very basic Spanish communication skills. The course will concentrate on developing pronunciation skills and vocabulary as well as providing a basic knowledge of Spanish grammar on which learners will be able to build future skills should they choose to do so. This course is designed for students who have not previously studied the language; students who have had limited previous contact with the language may enroll in the course only by permission of the instructor.

(This course meets general education requirement Area C1 for students in the Adult Undergraduate program only.)

SPAN 010 Spanish: Spanish for Health Professionals (3 hours)

This course is designed to offer an opportunity for health professionals to develop basic communication skills and will focus on the language structures and vocabulary most needed to use with their clients in the work place. This course is designed for students who have not previously studied the language; students who have had limited previous contact with the language may enroll in the course only by permission of the instructor.

(This course meets general education requirement Area C1 for students in the Adult Undergraduate program only.)

SPAN 090 Selected Topics in Spanish (1-3 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses for students who have not reached the intermediate level. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

SPAN 101 Spanish: Stage III (3 hours)

SPAN-101 is the first in a two-part sequence of intermediate-level Spanish, designed to build upon basic language concepts acquired in introductory-level courses, expand cultural knowledge, and increase confidence while enhancing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Spanish.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-002 or placement into SPAN-101.

SPAN 102 Spanish: Stage IV (3 hours)

Continuation of SPAN-101.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-101 or placement into SPAN-102.

SPAN 190 Selected Topics (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide intermediate level study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

SPAN 201 Spanish Conversation (3 hours)

A course designed to provide intensive practice in conversational Spanish. Students will prepare assigned discussion topics and/or readings and will make class presentations in Spanish.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-102 or placement into SPAN-201.

Note: SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 may be taken in either order or may be taken simultaneously.

SPAN 202 Spanish Composition (3 hours)

A course designed to develop writing skills in Spanish. Students will study the grammatical and stylistic structures of the Spanish language and will complete a range of specified writing assignments in Spanish.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-102 or placement into SPAN-201/SPAN-202.

Note: SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 may be taken in either order or may be taken simultaneously.

SPAN 203 Reading Strategies (1 hours)

Students will read a variety of materials using specific strategies designed to help them comprehend texts taught in traditional literature classes as well as other materials written in Spanish. This course is designed as a bridge between third-year and upper-level courses.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201.

SPAN 204 The Culture of Spain (3 hours)

A course that will introduce students to the culture and contemporary society of Spain with an overview of language and communication, history, religion, tradition and celebration, art and architecture, film, literature, and government.

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 206 Readings in Spanish Literature (3 hours)

Reading and discussion of selected Spanish literature. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 207 Readings in Spanish-American Literature (3 hours)

Reading and discussion of selected Spanish-American literature. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 208 Business Spanish (3 hours)

An introduction to Spanish and Latin American business language and practices, emphasizing vocabulary and cultural awareness. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 209 Love Theme in Spanish Literature (3 hours)

An examination of the theme of love in Hispanic literature from medieval times to the present, including works by the Arcipreste de Ita, Rojas, Ortega y Gasset, Hartzenbush, Tirso de Molina, Valera, Becquer, and Unamuno. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 210 Spanish Advanced Grammar Review (3 hours)

A course which will present a sequenced review of the grammar of the Spanish language, with an emphasis on areas of particular difficulty for persons whose first language is English. This course will not substitute for either Spanish 201 or 202 for the Spanish minor. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202.

SPAN 211 Culture Through Literature (3 hours)

A study of Hispanic culture through the reading and discussion of selected literary works. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202.

SPAN 212 Adolescent Literature in Spanish (3 hours)

A course designed to introduce students to contemporary literature written by Hispanic authors for the adolescent reader. Works selected will be representative of a variety of Spanish-speaking countries and will be targeted for readers between the ages of 10 and 18. Emphasis in the course will be on the social and cultural elements that affect the lives and beliefs of young people from Spanish-speaking countries, as reflected in contemporary literature. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 214 Mexican Culture (3 hours)

This course will introduce students to the culture and contemporary society of Mexico with an overview of the country's history, politics, art, festivals, religious celebrations, and cuisine. Students will read a recent novel and see a contemporary film in order to catch the full "flavor" of the vitality and richness of Mexican culture. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 224 The Culture of Spanish-Speaking South America (3 hours)

This course is an introduction to the culture and civilization of Spanish-speaking South America, with an emphasis on the 20th and 21st centuries. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 271 Hispanic Film (3 hours)

This course is designed to examine Hispanic film as a reflection of the cultural and political context in which it is conceived and produced. Students will view, discuss, and write about 10-15 films from Latin America and Spain. The films assigned will be chosen for their cultural value and artistic merit. Students will watch films outside of class and discuss them in class. Although there will be a heavy emphasis on listening comprehension and speaking, research and writing assignments will be included. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.

SPAN 290 Selected Topics in Spanish (1-5 hours)

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other departmental courses or to provide advanced study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students. (Not open to native speakers of Spanish.)

Prerequisite(s): SPAN-201 and SPAN-202 or permission of the department.