World Languages

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The Department of World Languages offers credit courses in German, Japanese, Latin, American Sign Language, and Spanish as options for fulfilling the humanities requirement (15 credits) for the associate of arts and sciences degree. Native American language (Salish) is taught on the WVC Omak campus and may be used to meet an elective requirement for the AAS degree. Three levels of German and Latin, six levels of ASL, Japanese, and Spanish are currently listed in the college catalog. In addition, students may pursue individual interests through independent study language courses. Special courses designed to deal with unique subjects or timely topics are occasionally offered.

Though there is some variation in outcomes depending on language and level, the following are common themes for what students should be able to do upon successful completion of a course:

Carry out a variety of interactions, in both oral and written forms.
Develop the four language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) defined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
Recognize and interpret cultural behaviors, attitudes and values.
Become acquainted with the historical and cultural movements of the target language through exposure of literature, art, music, film and/or performing arts.
Employ strategies for analyzing and responding to authentic materials in the target language.

Program Learning Outcomes

Carry out a variety of interactions, in both oral and written forms.

Develop the four language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) defined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

Recognize and interpret cultural behaviors, attitudes and values.

Become acquainted with the historical and cultural movements of the target language through exposure of literature, art, music, film and/or performing arts.

Employ strategies for analyzing and responding to authentic materials in the target language.

Classes

ASL 101: Fingerspelling & Numerical Incorporation

Credits

ASL 101 is an intermediate level course designed to enhance student proficiency in American Sign Language through the exploration of fingerspelling, handshape stories, and numerical incorporation in ASL. This course is a focused practice in comprehension and production of finger-spelled words and numbers with emphasis on clarity and accuracy. Introduction to lexicalized fingerspelling and numeral incorporation with a unit on ASL Storytelling and classifiers. Expressive skills focus on the development of speed, clarity, and fluency. Prerequisite: Completion of ASL&121 with a minimum grade of 'C' or instructor approval.