What are the aims of this module?
The aim of this module is to enable absolute beginners in Spanish to reach a level of Spanish approaching GCSE, which is equivalent to B1 threshold level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It also develops your general language learning and interpersonal skills.
What is the content and how will I be taught?
This module encourages the active and appropriate use of Spanish over a wide range of topics. The focus will be on dealing with everyday situations and handling basic texts. Topics include talking about the future and the past, work and career, telephoning, autobiographies, travelling and coping with problems.
You are taught for 4 hours every week, in 2, two hour classes, through a range of activities that promote effective language learning. These include role plays, listening activities and group activities.
Why should I do this module?
Spanish is one of the world's great languages with over 350 million speakers across the globe. It is a very rewarding language to learn as it is fairly straightforward at first and you can make rapid progress. A knowledge of Spanish is highly valued by potential employers and also provides a key to a tremendous cultural heritage.
How am I assessed?
You are assessed through coursework in the form of a project and class tests in the four language skills. The end-of-year examination is worth 50% of the available credit for this module.
Who teaches this module?
This module is taught by Mr Martyn Ellis. Martyn started work at Queen Mary in 2001. Martyn is the co-author of the Pasos series of Spanish language text books and has many years of teaching experience.
What else should I know?
This module is a beginners course and is not open to those of you who have studied Spanish before. You cannot do more than one language. To succeed on this module, you need to be fully committed and understand that learning a language requires regular attendance and self-study. You also need to be prepared to participate in pair and group work in class. Those of you who continue their studies at Queen Mary can develop your Spanish to a higher level through classes offered by QM's Language Learning service.
You can find our more about learning Spanish here.