This is an introductory course in which students will learn the sounds and symbols of the new language and begin developing all four basic skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The course stresses vocabulary acquisition and usage, sentence structure, and basic grammatical principles. Since the objective of the course is to develop the student’s ability to communicate in the new language, class time is developed largely to the development of listening and speaking skills. All students will be required to listen, imitate, and to actively participate in all kinds of aural and oral drills. As the course progresses, they will also be required to do simple reading and writing exercises in the target language. In addition, the students in this course will have the opportunity to learn about the customs, idiosyncrasy, the cultural practices and expressions of the people whose language they are studying. Although the use of some English may be necessary in some occasions, teachers will strive to conduct classes, in the target language as much as possible. Participation in all class activities and exercises is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.