Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Students taking second year Spanish may simultaneously take this culture course with instructor's permission.

The objectives of this course are threefold. First, to learn about the culture of Spain from a historic and geographic perspective, and in so doing, be able to understand the culture of the United States more objectively. Third, the students will improve proficiency in Spanish by enriching vocabulary and syntax.

A general sound foundation in Spanish grammar and vocabulary is assumed. Grammar is not the subject of this course. Students should plan on one hour of outside work for each in-class hour.

 At the completion of SPA 262A the students will be able to do the following:

1. Recognize cultural and social perspectives and contributions as related to the region or topic of focus, based on a deepened understanding of themes such as Spanish history, ecology, society and politics.
2. Use critical thinking skills to evaluate social and cultural consequences of human activity as related to the region or topic of focus.
3. Identify culturally-grounded assumptions of one’s own culture and apply a basic understanding of Spanish culture.
4. Analyze historical and cultural works as related to the region or topic of focus (works include but are not limited to literature, film, art, dance, music, language, philosophy, religion).
5. Apply cultural understandings learned in class effectively in authentic interactions with members of Spanish society.
6. Enhance intercultural skills through the practice of self-appraisal and examination of one’s personal beliefs in comparison to the beliefs of others.

Course Activities and Design

• Regular attendance
• Assigned readings
• Research of specific themes individually and/or in groups
• Discussion in class
• Presentations individually and/or in groups
• Written essays assigned outside of class or to be done in-class
• Written quizzes in-class and/or oral evaluations
• Optional student portafolio
• Optional Service Learning activities

• Regular attendance
• Class participation
• Presentations individually and/or in groups
• Written essays assigned outside of class or to be done in-class
• Written quizzes in-class and/or oral evaluations
• Optional student portafolio

General overview of the following:

• Concept of culture
• Cultural identity (contrast of the cultures of the United States of America and Spain)
• Cultural diversity in Spain
• Spanish motivations, values, and beliefs
• Geography and History of Spain
• Spanish civil war and transition to democracy
• Modern Spain
• Spain and the European Community
• Relationship between Spain and the Americas
• Choice of folkloric festivities and music
• Choice of key figures in history, graphic art, architecture, music and Spanish literature