SOCIAL JUSTICE INTENSIVE COURSE SUMMER

DATES: MAY 27 TO JUNE 25TH AND JULY 1 TO JULY 30TH 2013 Course Description We believe it is through language that you learn about Bolivia and the realities, contradictions and challenges facing her people. To that end we offer this multi-level course that explores the complex cultural fabric that comprises Bolivia. Each week a new social justice theme will be introduced and explored through activities such as guest lectures, in-the-field interviews, readings, debates and group discussions. Classes are from 8:30 to 12 pm Monday through Friday with optional afternoon activities. Students will take two tests to determine their level: The ACTFL oral proficiency exam and a written exam. The results of these tests will be used to form groups of no more than 4 students with the same level of proficiency. During the course adjustments and modifications will be made in order to meet the interests and priorities of students. As much as possible instructors will attend to the individual requirements of the students in order to meet the course objectives. The objectives are to: • Encourage and promote spontaneous oral production of Spanish • Support the student's immersion in the Bolivian culture and assimilation through readings, lectures and field visits • Promote the use of communication skills in everyday situations and research interviews • Develop ability to understand Spanish • Deepen knowledge of grammar for the proper and consistent use of tenses and modes Course Requirements During the course there will be regular, systematic and consistent assessments. At the end of the course students will make an oral presentation on one of the topics covered during the course and write a short essay. The course focuses on the speaking component of the language but it does not neglect the written portion. By the end of the course each students will achieve a breakthrough in their speaking of the language. We require: • Active participation in all of the classes and activities • Completion of assigned tasks • Oral and written exam at the end of the course • Use of Spanish in all contexts and situations Program Schedule Using social justice issues as our mainstay the classes offer a varied methodology. • Grammar classes • Conversation Classes • Lectures: 1 per week • Interviews according to themes • Home stays • End of course field trip Optional weekend excursion will be offered to locations such as Toro Toro and Chapare, to be determined in part by the interests of participants. A home stay 
with a Bolivian family will make the course a more personal and profound immersive experience, as well as provide participants with ample opportunity to practice Spanish in everyday situations. The course ends with a 3-day weekend in Independencia where we will be hosted by Project AZA a local NGO founded by Dorinda Dutcher in July of 2007. The goal of the project is to revive cultural expression through traditional weavings and find markets for the woven products to supplement rural incomes in a dependable manner. Project AZA will offer us a unique opportunity to learn about a local development project from the ground up. To visit a rural community is a rare opportunity and a perfect end to your month long exploration of Bolivia. Please contact us with questions and more information on our courses.