Publication Type: Session Presentation
Abstract: The presenters will demonstrate how this middle school program raises the expectations of Spanish-speaking students and engages them in preparation for more rigorous high school work and preparation for college level work. The program turns the students' Spanish language skills into a positive advantage. Data shows that 80% - 90% of the 8th grade students are scoring 3, 4 or 5 on the AP Spanish Language Exam. The presenters will provide overall information for program implementation.

Publication Type: Session Paper
Abstract: Members of communities living outside their countries of origin can depend heavily on mass media for various purposes: to assimilate or conversely, to remain ethnically diverse; to build networks of communication and assistance; to serve as arenas of conflict between and within groups; or to gain information or raise awareness of issues of import. Issues of import to minority communities can have distinct shades of meaning from their significance to the dominant population. One such issue is immigration, a topic raging in this election season. Divisions within ethnic communities can further complicate coverage. How do networks that cater to these communities present controversial issues, and how do these representations articulate the nexus between power relations within emigre communities as well as with the majority populations? This work will explore the significance of immigrant issues stories aired in Telemundo and Univision national newscasts from April 2008 to July, 2008. The research will be based on a content analysis of the main US Spanish speaking channels with special emphasis in identifying any bias or lack of perspectives in these stories. The results will provide a window into coverage of an important topic during an election year.   

Publication Type: Poster Presentation
Abstract: High school Spanish students, who read authentic text, analyze and discuss literature by assuming specific roles in small groups. As they interpret and debate new perspectives that emerge from classroom discourse, their vocabulary and oral communication skills increase. More importantly, after making text-text connections, students grasp universal literary themes.

Publication Type: Session Presentation
Abstract: One of the main objectives of the foreign language class is to facilitate the understanding between the native culture of the student and the foreign language culture. This presentation will address different resources to approach the culture of Spain: literature, music, art, etc. Activities that can be used in the Spanish classroom, including reading literary texts, listening to songs, and observing art works will be shared with the audience.

Publication Type: Session Presentation
Abstract: The purpose of this presentation is to demonstrate an innovative approach to cultural instruction in a foreign language class in which the students developed their own sense of culture by discussing cultural perspectives, products, and practices.