Time Schedule:
Kristine Motivane
LATV 101
Seattle Campus
Fundamentals of oral and written Latvian. First in a sequence of three.
Class description
The course is designed for students who do not have any knowledge of Latvian but who would like to get acquainted with Latvian language, country and culture. The course goals are: - to provide students with brief insight into the phonetic, grammatical and lexical system of Latvian; - to develop the ability to communicate in a simple manner in Latvian (i.e. to ask and answer questions related to everyday situations); - to develop language skills: reading, speaking, listening and writing; - to provide insight into Latvian culture and traditions, since development of sociocultural competence is very crucial in language acquisition.
Student learning goals
Students are expected to have the general knowledge of the system and functioning of Latvian language which allow them to apply it into the practice.
Students will be able to communicate in a simple manner, ask and answer the questions.
Students will be provided with authentic cultural materials about Latvia, Latvian language and culture as much as possible thus facilitating the understanding of Latvian world view and in that way developing better language and communicative skills.
Students will be able to understand short and simple texts, words, sentences and communicative phrases related to the topics covered in this course.
Students will be able to compose a simple text, i.e. fill in the questionnaire, write about themselves, their families etc.
General method of instruction
Language classes are designed to develop all the language skills: listening, speaking, writing and reading. Instruction will be based on developing each of the skill, focusing on the usage of communicative approach.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Grades are assigned based on the results of quizzes, tests, active participation and homeworks.
