Department of Foreign Languages Course Descriptions

(please note that this is a comprehensive list of courses; not every course is taught every year)

Arabic ▪ Chinese ▪ Foreign Languages ▪ French

Arabic—ARBC

Lower-Division Courses

1550. Elementary Arabic. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic.  Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of Arabic speakers, are studied. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC). Grading is ABC/NC. 4 s.h.

2600. Intermediate Arabic. A continuation of ARBC 1550 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of Arabic speakers, are studied. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC).  Prereq.: ARBC 1550. 4 s.h.

2605. Advanced Intermediate Arabic. A distance learning class and a continuation of ARBC 2600 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of Arabic speakers, are studied. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC). Prereq.: ARBC 2600.  3 s.h.

2606. Advanced Intermediate Arabic 2. A distance learning class and a continuation of ARBC 2605 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic. Prereq.: ARBC 2605. 3 s.h.

Upper-Division Courses

3701. Advanced Arabic 1. A distance learning class and a continuation of ARBC 2606 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic. Prereq.: ARBC 2606. 3 s.h.

3702. Advanced Arabic 2. A distance learning class and a continuation of ARBC 3701 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic. Prereq.: ARBC 3701. 3 s.h.

3799. Study Abroad in Arabic. An individually arranged program of foreign study in the Arabic language. Programs can be of two general types: (1) trips or residential programs sponsored by consortial universities, and (2) independent academic coursework through institutions with which YSU does not have a consortial agreement. A written statement detailing the student’s academic plan must be approved by the Chair of Foreign Languages and the Dean of CLASS prior to the trip. May be repeated up to a total of 15 s.h., if specific course content changes.  Note: study abroad generally requires about one year’s advance planning. Prereq.: Sophomore status and approval of the Chair of Foreign Languages.  1-15 s.h.

Chinese—CHIN

 Lower-Division Courses

1550. Elementary Chinese. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of Chinese speakers, are studied. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC). Grading is ABC/NC. 4 s.h.

2600. Intermediate Chinese. Continuation of CHIN 1550 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of Chinese speakers, are studied. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC).  Prereq.: CHIN 1550. 4 s.h.

2605. Advanced Intermediate Chinese. A distance learning class and a continuation of CHIN 2600 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of Chinese speakers, are studied. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC). Prereq.:  CHIN 2600. 3 s.h.

2606. Advanced Intermediate Chinese 2. A distance learning class and a continuation of CHIN 2605 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese. Prereq.: CHIN 2605.  3 s.h.

Upper-Division Courses

3701. Advanced Chinese 1. A distance learning class and a continuation of CHIN 2606 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese. Prereq.: CHIN 2606. 3 s.h.

3702. Advanced Chinese 2. A distance learning class and a continuation of CHIN 3701 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese. Prereq.: CHIN 3701. 3 s.h.

3799. Study Abroad in Chinese. An individuallyarranged program of foreign study in the Chinese language. Programs can be of two general types: (1) trips or residential programs sponsored by consortial universities, and (2) independent academic coursework through institutions with which YSU does not have a consortial agreement. A written statement detailing the student’s academic plan must be approved by the Chair of Foreign Languages and the Dean of CLASS prior to the trip. May be repeated up to a total of 15 s.h., if specific course content changes.  Note: study abroad generally requires about one year’s advance planning. Prereq.: sophomore status and approval of the Chair of Foreign Languages. 1-15 s.h.

Foreign Languages—FNLG

Lower-Division Courses

1500. Introduction to Foreign Language Study. An introductory exploration of human language and foreign language learning. Topics include language and society, language and culture (linguistic and cultural knowledge), strategies for learning a foreign language, practical applications of knowing foreign languages, issues of proficiency and bilingualism, intercultural communication, basic terms and concepts, language use and gender. For students without previous foreign language study. Prereq.: Placement test or permission of department chairperson.  3 s.h.

1550. Elementary Foreign Language. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing a foreign language not regularly offered. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of its speakers, are studied. Students should achieve an intermediate-low level of proficiency. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC). Grading is ABC/NC. 4 s.h.

1560. Language, Ethnicity, and Gender. Basic understanding of relations between ethnicity, gender, and speech style, distinguishing linguistics, sociolinguistics, and women’s issues. Examination of topics such as language, socialization, oral vs written language, language and class membership, and intra-ethnicity variation in Urban Vernacular English. Listed also as ENGL 1560. 3 s.h.

1560H. Language, Ethnicity, and Gender. Basic understanding of relations between ethnicity, gender, and speech style, distinguishing linguistics, sociolinguistics, and women’s issues. Examination of topics such as language, socialization, oral vs written language, language and class membership, and intra-ethnicity variation in Urban Vernacular English.  Listed also as ENGL 1560. 3 s.h.

2600. Intermediate. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing a foreign language not regularly offered; knowledge of geography and daily life as well as appreciation of the culture. Students should achieve an intermediate-mid level of proficiency. Assignments in the LLRC.  Prereq.: FNLG 1550. 4 s.h.

2601. Advanced Intermediate. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing a foreign language not regularly offered; knowledge of geography and daily life as well as appreciation of the cultures of speakers of the language. Assignments in the LLRC as appropriate. Prereq.: FNLG 2600.  3 s.h.

2602. Advanced Intermediate 2. A distance learning class and a continuation of FNLG 2601 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing a foreign language not regularly offered.  Prereq.: FNLG 2601 in the same language. 3 s.h.

2605. Topics in Foreign Drama. Study of representative plays written in a language other than English (but read in English translation); examination of relevant critical theories and of historic and institutional factors affecting the development of the genre; special attention to ethical issues raised in the plays.  This course may not be repeated for credit. 3 s.h.

2610. Foreign Film. Study of representative films originally produced in a language other than English; examination of relevant critical theories and of historic and institutional factors affecting the development of the genre; special attention to cultural issues raised in the films. 3 s.h.

2615. Introduction to French Literature. A survey of the principal milestones of French literature, illustrated by reading representative works of various periods and parts of the Francophone world in their English translations. French majors must supplement this course by registering for FRNC 2608 during the same semester. This course is for non-French majors.  Prereq.: ENGL 1551. 3 s.h.

2660. Women in the Ancient World. Study of various aspects of the lives of women in Ancient Greece and Rome. Emphasis on examination and evaluation of primary sources. All readings are in English. 3 s.h.

2685. Topics in Russian Literature and Culture. Studies of selected authors, genres, or themes in Russian literature read in English translation. Topic is announced each time course is offered. May be repeated once for credit if topic is different. 3 s.h.

Upper-Division Courses

3701. Advanced Foreign Language 1. A distance learning class and a continuation of FNLG 2602 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing in a foreign language not regularly offered. Prereq.: FNLG 2602 in the same language.  3 s.h.

3702. Advanced Foreign Language 2. A distance learning class and a continuation of FNLG 3701 with intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing in a foreign language not regularly offered. Prereq.: FNLG 3701 in the same language.  3 s.h.

3799. Study Abroad in Foreign Language. An individually-arranged program of foreign study in a language not regularly offered. Programs can be of two general types: (1) trips or residential programs sponsored by consortial universities, and (2) independent academic coursework through institutions with which YSU does not have a consortial agreement.  A written statement detailing the student’s academic plan must be approved by the Chair of Foreign Languages and the Dean of CLASS prior to the trip. May be repeated up to a total of 15 s.h., if specific course content changes. Note: study abroad generally requires about one year’s advance planning.  Prereq.: sophomore status and approval of the Chair of Foreign Languages. 1-15 s.h.

4801. Methods of Foreign Language Teaching. Methods of teaching foreign languages (K-12) with emphasis on the Ohio model and the ACTFL guidelines; curricula planning, teaching technology, the rationale for foreign language study, public and professional relations. Elementary, middle school, or high school field experience. Prereq.: Upper-division status in BCOE and successful completion of at least one course at the 3700 level in FRNC, ITAL, SPAN, or GRMN. 3 s.h.

4899. Professional Development for Teachers. Students will 1) attend an appropriate professional conference and produce a journal detailing their experiences at the conference, and 2) assemble and present a portfolio of their previous language coursework to the faculty and other interested parties. Prereq.:  Permission of the Department Chair. 1 s.h.

5850. Sociolinguistics. An investigation of the relationship between language and society. Includes discussion of dialects and standard language, language planning, linguistic identity, multi- and bilingualism, class, gender, ethnicity, and social interaction. Listed also as ENGL 4850. Prereq.: ENGL 1551. 3 s.h.

5851. Language Acquisition. A study of research on the learning of first and second languages. Topics include developmental sequences, learner variables, critical periods and conditions for learning, and the roles of input and interaction. The course is designed for those planning to teach languages. Listed also as ENGL 4851. Prereq.: ENGL 1551. 3 s.h.

French—FRNC

 Lower-Division Courses

1550. Elementary French. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French. Geography and daily life, as well as appreciation of the culture of its speakers, are studied. Successful students will have reached an intermediate-low level of proficiency at the end of the course. Assignments in the Language Learning and Resource Center (LLRC).  Grading is ABC/NC. 4 s.h.

2600. Intermediate. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French; knowledge of physical aspects of French-speaking countries and Francophone cultures. Students should achieve an intermediate-mid level of proficiency. Assignments in the LLRC. Prereq.: Placement test or FRNC 1550. 4 s.h.

2605. Advanced Intermediate. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French; knowledge of physical aspects of Frenchspeaking countries and Francophone cultures. Successful students will have reached an intermediate-high level of proficiency at the end of the course.  Assignments in the LLRC. Prereq.: Placement test or FRNC 2600. 3 s.h.

2606. Intensive French Review. Intensive training in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French. Grammatical structures and vocabulary in context. Successful students will reach an intermediate- high level of proficiency at the end of the sequence. Prereq.: Placement test or FRNC 2600.  3 s.h.

2608. Directed Reading. Reading authentic French texts of intermediate difficulty relevant to the content of another course not taught in French. Reading comprehension strategies and vocabulary building. Primarily for students not majoring in French. May be repeated once. Prereq.: FRNC 2605 or Placement test. 1 s.h.

2610. Translation. Techniques of translating complex sentence structures into English from general, business, technical, and scientific materials. Prereq.:  Placement exam or FRNC 2600. 3 s.h.

Upper-Division Courses

3710. Applied Phonetics. A systematic study of French phonetics to correct defects in pronunciation and intonation and give students a better understanding of the differences between the French and English sound systems. Prereq.: FRNC 2605. 3 s.h.

3715. Conversation and Composition. Skills in written and oral expression developed through directed composition and conversation, discussion of assigned topics, extemporaneous situational dialogues, and written papers on topics of special interest to the participants. Prereq.: FRNC 2605. 3 s.h.

3720. Literature and Culture: France. A study of major works of French literature through its history, placed in the cultural context which helped produce them. Prereq.: FNLG 2615 and FRNC 3715. 3 s.h.

3725. Literature and Culture: Africa. A study of major works representative of Francophone African literature in their cultural context. Prereq.: FNLG 2615 and FRNC 3715. 3 s.h.

3730. Literature and Culture: America. A study of major works in Francophone literature in North America in its cultural context. Prereq.: FNLG 2615 and FRNC 3715. 3 s.h.

3740. French for Business and Communication. Development of oral and written communication in business and other practical situations. Business practices in French-speaking countries. Prereq.: 2605 and 2606. 3 s.h.

3750. Civilization and Culture. A study of contemporary French civilization and culture, focusing on what the French consider typical of their character, as exemplified by their traditions, magazines, films, and heroes. Readings and class work in French. Prereq.: FRNC 3715. 3 s.h.

3771. French Fiction. Selected prose works of fiction in the French language, placed in their cultural and historical context, preparing students to understand, analyze, and interpret French and Francophone novels. Prereq.: FRNC 2605 and 2606. 3 s.h.

3772. French Drama. Selected dramatic works in the French language, placed in their cultural and historical context, preparing students to understand, analyze, and interpret French and Francophone theatrical works. Prereq.: FRNC 2605 and 2606.  3 s.h.

3773. French Poetry. Selected works of poetry in the French language, placed in their cultural and historical context, preparing students to understand, analyze, and interpret French and Francophone poems. Prereq.: FRNC 2605 and 2606. 3 s.h.

3799. Study Abroad in French. An individually arranged program of foreign study in the French language. Programs can be of two general types: (1) trips or residential programs sponsored by consortial universities, and (2) independent academic coursework through institutions with which YSU does not have a consortial agreement. A written statement detailing the student’s academic plan must be approved by a member of the French faculty, the chair of Foreign Languages and the dean of CLASS prior to the trip. Credit toward fulfillment of requirements for the French major will be determined by the chair of Foreign Languages and not the French faculty.  May be repeated up to a total of 15 s.h., if specific course content changes. Note: study abroad generally requires about one year’s advance planning.  Prereq.: Sophomore status and approval of the chair of Foreign Languages. 1-15 s.h.

4874. Advanced Writing. A course designed to develop skills in free composition on assigned topics.  Prereq.: FRNC 3750 and one of the following: 3720, 3725, 3730. 3 s.h.

4885. Special Topics. Studies in French language, literature, or civilization ranging from medieval to modern times. Topic announced each time course is offered. May be taken three times for credit if content is not repeated. Prereq.: FRNC 3750 and one of the following: 3720, 3725, 3730. 3 s.h.