Spanish Major with Teacher Certification (K-12), BA

In preparation for teaching Spanish language and literature in grades K-12, the Spanish teaching major before exit must demonstrate the competencies necessary for a beginning teacher. These competencies are demonstrated through the required  course of study and a carefully planned elective course sequence, and through a wide range of practicum experiences.

The program in Spanish certification is designed to provide for the following:

1. The development of proficiency in four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
2. Skills in the analysis of the linguistic components of the language, including a study of its phonological, morphological, syntactic, and semantic systems.
3. A study of the literature, history, and civilization of Spanish speaking people.
4. Skills in the selection and use of instructional materials and strategies, including educational media and technology.
5. Experiences in the methodologies of teaching listening, speaking, reading, writing, and viewing.
6. A comparative study of Hispanic language and cultures and of English and American culture.
7. A study of the ways in which children, young adolescents, adolescents, and adults learn first and second languages, and a knowledge of developmental psychology.
8. Experiences which provide for the blending of the theoretical and the practical in planning for effective instruction; classroom management; and assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation of students.
9. The beginnings of a professional attitude toward the teaching of foreign language through study and investigation of current research reflecting the state of the art.

General Requirements

The department seeks to identify the teaching major early so that practicum experiences may begin soon after matriculation and, if possible, before admission to the teacher education program.

Admission

1. Any student who has maintained a minimum overall grade point average of 2.5 and completed English, speech, and foreign language courses in general education (ENG 1301, 1302, 2301, 2302, SPH 2321 or 2341, HUM 2310, and SPA 2311 and 2312) with a minimum grade point average of 2.5 may apply for admission.
2. Application is normally made when the student is enrolled in EDU 2304: Sociological, Historical, and Philosophical Foundations of Education I.
3. Admission to the program is based upon the recommendation of the department following a review of the student’s record and a personal interview.
4. Before student teaching is permitted, the student must meet requirements of sequential professional courses, general education, and the major program. Also, the student must obtain approval from an ad hoc screening committee composed of instructors who can assess the student’s competencies for the teaching of Spanish.
5. Before exiting from the program, the student must demonstrate competence in the discipline of Spanish and in addressing pupil needs through informed educational practices.