Faculty Syllabus

AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE

WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT

SYLLABUS FOR SPANISH 1411

Course 
 

Spanish 1411 – Spanish I, first semester Spanish

Professor

Tim Altanero, Ph.D.

Office hours: Generally 1-3pm M-Th by phone but flexible and by appt. 

Short consultations during breaks and after class if in-person class. Call or email for appt. The professor will make every effort to meet your preferred meeting time.

512 223 3238, taltaner@austincc.edu

Appointments are available in addition to office hours. Texting not supported.

Course Description
 

Credit Hours: 4

Classroom Contact Hours per week: 4

Laboratory Contact Hours per week: 0

Study of fundamentals of Spanish: conversation, basic writing, listening and reading comprehension, vocabulary building, grammar, and culture. This course fosters understanding of Spanish-speaking people through cultural comparison and development of written and spoken communication.

Course Rationale
 

In addition to offering the fundamentals of the Spanish language, this course is intended to fulfill one semester of the World Languages requirement as needed for Associate Degree plans and transfer credit to four-year institutions. The number of courses required varies from discipline and institution.

Credit by Examination/High School Language Credit

If you are not sure if this course is the correct level for you, please talk to your instructor.  You can earn college credit without taking this course by exploring all of your options. You could easily be placed in the appropriate level, which could save you time and money.  You can earn credit for this course with the following:

• High School AP or IB scores
• Course Challenge Exams (ACCs in house exams for all languages)
• The CLEP National Exam (French, German, and Spanish only)

Please be aware that there is not a financial penalty incurred for a level change at ACC. Please visit our departmental website for more information or talk to your instructor:  https://liberalarts.austincc.edu/wola/credit-by-exam/

Spanish for Spanish Speakers Credit

If you can speak Spanish and would like further formal training to continue improving your Spanish proficiency, we offer a Spanish for Spanish Speakers series for levels III and IV.  While you are enrolled in III and IV you get to test out of I and II, and will receive credit for them on your transcript.  

General Education Student Learning Outcomes:

Students will demonstrate competence in:

—    Critical Thinking

Gather, analyze, synthesize, evaluate and apply information for the purposes of innovation, inquiry, and creative thinking.

—    Teamwork

Consider different points of view to work collaboratively and effectively in pursuit of a shared purpose or goal.

—    Social Responsibility

Analyze differences and commonalities among peoples, ideas, aesthetic traditions, and cultural practices to include intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities.

—    Personal Responsibility

Identify and apply ethical principles and practices to decision-making by connecting choices, actions and consequences 

—    Communication Skills

Develop, interpret, and express ideas and information through written, oral and visual communication that is adapted to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.

General Education Student Learning Outcomes: (Copy exactly)

Students will demonstrate competence in:

—    Critical Thinking

Gather, analyze, synthesize, evaluate and apply information for the purposes of innovation, inquiry, and creative thinking.

—    Teamwork

Consider different points of view to work collaboratively and effectively in pursuit of a shared purpose or goal.

—    Social Responsibility

Analyze differences and commonalities among peoples, ideas, aesthetic traditions, and cultural practices to include intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities

.—    Personal Responsibility

Identify and apply ethical principles and practices to decision-making by connecting choices, actions and consequences 

—    Communication Skills

Develop, interpret, and express ideas and information through written, oral and visual communication that is adapted to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.

Common Course Objectives:  The main objective of this course is to develop competencies that align with the general education goals of critical thinking, interpersonal skills, civic and cultural awareness, personal responsibility, and written, oral and visual communication, in the Spanish language, at an appropriate level. The ability to understand and communicate and comprehend Spanish will develop along with the knowledge of the vocabulary, grammatical structures of the language, and exploration of how culture shapes communication. Two to three hours a day should be dedicated for the study of Spanish (at least two hours outside of class for each hour in class). If you feel you need extra help, you can find a Spanish tutor at the Tutoring Labs on all major campuses. This service is free to ACC students.

At the end of Spanish 1411, students should be able to do the following:

CRITICAL THINKING:

• utilize context, cognates, and related familiar words to understand written passages.
• determine what information is important when reading or listening for the gist or for specific information.
• utilize brainstorming and appropriate sequencing and visualization techniques to organize their writing.
• utilize language creatively to talk about their interests, friends and families, home life, and studies.
• compare and contrast aspects of Hispanic culture such as the education system, public transportation, and healthcare with their own, and discuss some advantages and disadvantages of each.
• explain why Spanish is spoken in numerous countries around the world and how.
• the geographic expanse has affected pronunciation of Spanish in those regions.
• explain the benefits of linguistic and cultural diversity in a society.

TEAMWORK (Interpersonal Skills):

• interview and present classmates, and tell information about them
• create dialogues with partners talking about their daily lives and other topics related to them
• help one another with areas of difficulty
• brainstorm in groups to organize tasks
• discuss perspectives on cultural differences with partners or groups

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (Civic and Cultural Awareness):

• compare customs when meeting and greeting people and explain how differences can lead to misunderstandings.
• utilize formal and informal speech correctly.
• compare and contrast aspects of Hispanic society such as the education system, public transportation, and healthcare with their own, and discuss advantages and disadvantages of each.
• compare values related to daily life such as pastimes, family, and traditions.
• name countries where Spanish is spoken and mention differences between them.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY:

• show time management skills by successfully completing tasks on time.
• acquire effective study habits for language learning.
• state how learning Spanish will be useful to them and improve their lives.
• name aspects of the Spanish language and culture of personal interest.
• make appropriate decisions when interacting with people from Spanish-speaking regions. 

COMMUNICATION (Written, Oral and Visual Communication):

• utilize context, cognates, and related familiar words to understand unfamiliar

material in written passages.

• determine what information is important when reading or listening for the gist or

for specific information.

• utilize brainstorming, appropriate sequencing, and visualization techniques to

organize their writing.

• exhibit conceptual understanding and control of courtesy expressions and appropriate

kinesics when speaking in Spanish.

• interpret and express ideas in the present tense on topics such as pastimes, studies and

university life, home life, and family through written, oral, and visual communication. 

Discipline-Level Learning Outcomes for Spanish:

CRITICAL THINKING:

• utilize a variety of reading or listening strategies for comprehension.
• draw inferences from information that has been presented.
• synopsize and synthesize the information from passages heard or read.
• utilize language creatively to make it relevant their lives.
• make comparisons and find contrasts among the different Francophone cultures and their own and explain different values.
• mention implications and applications of information they have read or heard.

TEAMWORK (Interpersonal Skills):

• complete a variety of language-based activities working in pairs and small groups.
• demonstrate the ability to negotiate meaning to complete language-based activities.
• demonstrate the ability to work in groups to achieve a common goal.
• demonstrate the ability to consider different points of view and work effectively with others to support a shared purpose or goal.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (Civic and Cultural Awareness):

• compare and contrast different perspectives on cultural issues, customs, and traditions after reading or listening to passages in the Spanish language.
• demonstrate some intercultural competence by correctly using formal and informal speech, changing registers as needed, and using gestures.
• mention some differences among the French-speaking countries.
• show awareness of current events in Spanish-speaking countries and analyze their implications.
• state ways that studying Spanish-speaking societies can help understand and improve their own society.
• explain the importance of knowledge of Hispanic culture for relationships between individuals, businesses, or nations.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: 

• acquire effective language learning strategies for life-long learning.
• state how learning Spanish will be useful to them and improve their lives.
• name and investigate aspects of the Spanish language and culture of personal interest.
• explain the value of learning about other people and respecting  cultural differences.
• make appropriate decisions when interacting with people from different cultures.

COMMUNICATION (Written, Oral and Visual Communication):

• show effective written and spoken communication in Spanish at the appropriate level using a variety of strategies and adopting the appropriate type of speech.
• use listening strategies such as listening for the main idea and for specific details and asking for clarification.
• exhibit conceptual understanding and control of courtesy expressions and appropriate kinesics when speaking in Spanish.
• interpret and express ideas through written, oral and visual communication.

Required Textbook/Materials for Students:
 

Vistas, 7th ed., Supersite + Websam, Blanco, Vista Higher Learning, ISBN 13 : 8220130919306 (digital access only but will give you everything you need for the course).  

Several options available at the ACC Bookstore or, better, wait until the class starts for possible cheaper options. 

This textbook is used in all four semesters of our Spanish program (1411/1412/2311/2312). 

Advice: The completely online bundle is generally the best option. It has everything required for the course. Check the Announcements in BlackBoard when your class begins to see if there is a cheaper, direct-purchase option.

If you want a printed textbook for reference only, you can buy a used textbook online wherever you want. Addall.com is a potential source for cheap, printed texts. The 6th edition (not so much the 5th or earlier) of the book is fine. Note that “loose leaf” is just that – a collection of pages you have to put into a three-ring binder. If you buy that used, good luck. Pages may be missing/out of order/etc. Better to get a bound, printed book.

You must have the correct edition of the text online! A printed text is just for reference so you don’t have so many windows open on your computer.

Getting Started on the Supersite + Websam, 7th edition)

This link will give you access to information regarding the Vistas Supersite including, but not limited to: 

• creating an account,
• enrolling in a course, and 
• redeeming an access code.

Instructional Methodology  

[For face-to-face lecture classes.] In this lecture format course, the components of listening and speaking will be emphasized during class time. We will spend most of the time using the language, not talking about it. The grammatical explanations will be kept to a minimum and you will be required to work in pairs and small groups. Your active participation in group work is required for the success of the class. The reading and writing components of the class will be mainly practiced at home. The Workbook and written assignments will be helpful in developing these two skills. The audio activities in the SAM will aid you in the comprehension and pronunciation of Spanish. 

[For online classes – this is us!]  In this online format class, our primary objective is to learn to communicate in Spanish. We will study vocabulary words and grammar rules with this end in mind. We will practice developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. 

For students new to distance/online learning note that time management and study skills required to be a successful online student are significantly enhanced in this format. Students new to distance/online education should review the ACC Distance Education General Information available at https://online.austincc.edu/faq/ 

The professor is available to help you in any and all aspects of Spanish via phone, email, and conferences as requested by the student. Feedback is provided orally and/or in writing on all tests and any homework/practice for which the student requests assistance. Do not be shy!

Official grades are housed in, and students must use, the college-approved learning management system (Blackboard). Students are expected to check there regularly to ensure that grades are recorded correctly. 

**The VHL gradebook is NOT the official gradebook and will not be accurate!

Although we do not meet as a class on campus, you will be required to complete work according to a schedule. You should be prepared to spend a minimum of at least 12-16 hours per week studying and doing assignments to prepare for testing. It is best to study a little each day. 

A microphone (built-in or external) and speakers (built-in or external) are necessary. RELIABLE, high-speed internet access is required and available in open computer labs available on all campuses if you do not have your own.

The ability to record video for oral exams is required. This is internal to VHL and a practice is available for you to test your performance. If you cannot record video in VHL (rare), campus computer labs are available.

[For hybrid classes] In this hybrid format class, our primary objective is to learn to communicate in Spanish. We will study vocabulary words and grammar rules with this end in mind. We will practice developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. In the hybrid format, we meet a reduced amount of time as a class on campus, and you will be required to complete the majority of the work online. 

For students new to distance/online learning note that time management and study skills required to be a successful online student are significantly enhanced in this format. Students new to distance/online education should review the ACC Distance Education General Information available at https://online.austincc.edu/faq/ 

In addition to class time, the professor is available to help you in any and all aspects of Spanish via phone, email, and conferences as requested by the student. Feedback is provided orally and/or in writing on all tests and any homework/practice for which the student requests assistance. Do not be shy!

Official grades are housed in, and students must use, the college-approved learning management system (Blackboard). Students are expected to check there regularly to ensure that grades are recorded correctly. 

**The VHL gradebook is NOT the official gradebook and will not be accurate!

You will be required to complete work according to a schedule. You should be prepared to spend a minimum of at least 12-16 hours per week studying and doing assignments to prepare for testing. It is best to study a little each day. Class time is generally used to help students with the work that is more difficult to do online and explain concepts that have historically been difficult for students.

A microphone (built-in or external) and speakers (built-in or external) are necessary. RELIABLE, high-speed internet access is required and available in open computer labs available on all campuses if you do not have your own.

The ability to record video for oral exams is required. This is internal to VHL and a practice is available for you to test your performance. If you cannot record video in VHL (rare), campus computer labs are available.

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Austin Community College provides free, secure drive-up WiFi to students and employees in the parking lots of all campus locations. WiFi can be accessed seven days a week, 7 am to 11 pm. Additional details are available at https://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Students who do not have the necessary technology to complete their ACC courses can request to borrow devices from Student Technology Services. Available devices include iPads, webcams, headsets, calculators, etc. Students must be registered for a credit course, Adult Education, or Continuing Education course to be eligible. For more information, including how to request a device, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Student Technology Services offers phone, live-chat, and email-based technical support for students and can provide support on topics such as password resets, accessing or using Blackboard, access to technology, etc. To view hours of operation and ways to request support, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Minimum Technology Requirements / Skills

• Fast and reliable access to Internet
• A reliable computer (tablets and phone are unlikely to be compatible with this course)
• The ability to record and post video and/or audio
• Communicate via email including sending attachments  
• Navigate the World Wide Web using a Web browser such as Google Chrome
• Use office applications such as Google (or similar) to create documents    
• Be willing to learn how to communicate using a discussion board and upload assignments to a classroom Website    
• Be comfortable uploading and downloading saved files    
• Have easy and reliable access to the Internet    
• Navigate Blackboard, including using the communication component within Blackboard. 

Grading System  

Five tests (all comprehensive), five oral exams (short and online), and Homework in VHL are required. 

Tests include written and listening components, and the four skills and culture are tested during the semester.  

Students must earn a grade of C or higher in order to continue with Spanish 2311.

          Grade Scale:

5 Tests (all are comprehensive) 60% 89.5 and above A

Workbook/Lab (VHL Homework) 30% 79.5 – 89.49 B

Oral exams 10% 69.5 – 79.49 C

59.5 – 69.49 D

< 59.5 F

Please note: Grades are based on your scores and do not round to move you to a higher, unearned, grade level. The cutoffs above are the absolute cutoffs. It is up to you to earn sufficient credit to earn the grade. It is understood that 89.49 is very close to 89.5 but it is not 89.5, the absolute MINIMUM for an A grade. Grading scales have ALREADY BEEN LOWERED such that less than 90 is an A. It is NOT POSSIBLE to lower the grading scale still further as that is not only unfair to all of the other students who earned the required credit but also DOES NOT MEET the stated minimum requirements above. There is no “rounding”, “bumping”, or any other way to increase your grade other than earning at least the minimum credit required as stated above.

Extra credit

Students who complete 75% or more of the HW per module (chapter) on VHL will be given an extra (unearned) 5 points for that HW.

No additional extra credit is available.

Tests and Final Exam 

The dates for the tests and final exam are indicated in Blackboard. The tests cover vocabulary, grammar and cultural themes studied in the previous chapters. As is the nature of learning a foreign language, all tests are comprehensive.

There are no re-tests or make-up exams.

USE ONLY THE GRAMMAR AND VOCABULARY LEARNED TO DATE!
The course follows a specific structure covering specific vocabulary and grammar that students are expected to master and show on tests. If you insist on using grammar and vocab not learned to date you will get a ZERO on any work that contains grammar and vocab not learned to date. It is impossible to grade work that contains grammar and vocab not learned to date as it raises an incredible number of red flags - where was this grammar learned? If this grammar is already known, is the student in the wrong class? Did the student consult unauthorized sources? Did the student cheat? Want to avoid this hassle and GRADE REDUCTION? 

USE ONLY THE GRAMMAR AND VOCABULARY LEARNED TO DATE!
If you STILL (!!) insist on using grammar and vocab not learned to date, you STILL (!!) will get a zero! Don’t do that. I want you to do well!

All testing is done online in VHL. You will see them in the VHL Calendar. Click when ready to take. They are all timed at about 45 minutes depending on which version of the test you get. Not every student always get the same tests.

Tests must be submitted by the deadlines or a 50% penalty per day is automatically applied. Although tests may be available after the deadlines, it is your responsibility to complete them on or before the deadlines. Only students with approved SAS (Student Accessibility Services) directives explicitly stating that tests can be taken after a deadline may do so. If you take a test after a deadline, you will receive a 50% penalty per day. 

If you start a test before the deadline and submit it after the deadline, the WHOLE TEST is late, even if it’s just a few seconds. This is why I am telling you again that it is a very (VERY) bad idea to start tests at the last minute. Pace yourself and start the test with AT LEAST ONE HOUR before the deadline. 

You get NO CREDIT for any work submitted late, whether you started it before the deadline or not! AGAIN, leave yourself at least an hour before the deadline before starting a test! It will be LATE and you will incur LATE PENALTIES if you do not SUBMIT BEFORE the deadline.

You must use accents and other diacritical marks when they are needed.

Deadlines are given for each test under each module of the course. The professor will not remind you of the deadlines. They are given now and you are expected to plan your calendar accordingly.

DEADLINES ARE NOT EXTENDED FURTHER FOR ANY REASON! 

A deadline is the last possible second you can turn something in for a grade. If you go over - even by just a few seconds –YOUR WORK WILL BE LATE and will not be counted! Don't let this happen to you. Don't start a test at 11:30pm. Start early. Pace yourself. If you miss the deadline, that's it. THAT IS IT! The tests will not be accepted late without penalty, even if just a few seconds. You are given the deadlines far in advance and it is your responsibility to meet them.

You must SUBMIT (click Submit) your tests! If you do not, the timer will continue to run and submit for you when the time expires. IF THAT TIME IS AFTER THE DEADLINE EVEN BY JUST A SECOND it will be LATE and WILL NOT RECEIVE CREDIT. YOU (YOU) must ensure that the work is submitted before the deadline! Just click Submit and verify in the VHL gradebook if you are nervous. (It will say Pending).

Tests submitted after the deadline are penalized at 50% per day. That is the ONLY exception to deadlines.

Since all tests are announced and available from the 1st day of class, there are no make up tests. Plan your calendar accordingly.

Students are welcomed to correct their tests for their own edification, not for credit. The professor will gladly review corrections upon request.

Re-tests are not given. Students are expected to demonstrate their mastery of the material on the initial tests only.

USE ONLY THE GRAMMAR AND VOCABULARY LEARNED TO DATE!

AGAIN - DO NOT USE GRAMMAR/VOCAB WE HAVE NOT LEARNED!

Most times the question will contain the tense and grammar that is expected in your answers so be sure to read the questions carefully.

Be sure to use (complete) sentences when instructed to do so.

HUGE HINT! The tests cover what we just learned including some items from previous chapters.

If, after all of this explanation, you still (!) insist on using grammar/vocab we have not learned you will still (!) get a zero. Don’t do that. There is nothing on a test or HW that cannot be done with what we have learned.

If you “already know Spanish” take a CLEP or challenge exam and get exempted from this (and possibly other) classes. It’s cheaper, faster, and if you “fail” the exam nobody has to know – they just put you back in this class without recording a grade.

If you intend to cheat, don’t. There is ZERO TOLERANCE. Penalties are severe and non-negotiable. See Academic Integrity late in this syllabus.

Workbook/Lab Manual (Homework and Practice on VHL)

The workbook and lab manual (VHL) must be completed by the dates indicated in the schedule and online. 

**No late work is accepted. 

In order to complete the listening comprehension and video activities from the workbook/lab manual you will need to access them online at the VHL supersite – www.vhlcentral.com.

Attendance / Participation

*** If you are taking an online ASYNCHRONOUS class, you must complete our Orientation quiz by the deadline stated. It is a state-mandated policy and there are no exceptions to it.

If you do not do it by the deadline - it is very easy - you will be withdrawn from the course and you will not be reinstated. Why not do it now? See your deadline in Blackboard.

AGAIN - if you miss the deadline for the Orientation Quiz (very easy to complete!) you will be withdrawn from the course and you will not be reinstated.

Regular and timely class participation and completion of work is expected of all students.  If compliance with course policies is unsatisfactory, the professor may withdraw students from the class. A missed test, for example, may result in your being withdrawn.

If you are taking a F2F, synchronous (one that has live meetings), or hybrid class, By College policy, regular and punctual class attendance is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. Due to the emphasis on oral practice, attendance is mandatory and will be checked daily. Departmental policy allows instructors to drop students with more than three absences. Leaving class prior to class dismissal without the instructor’s approval will be counted as an absence. Language classes are very interactive and you will be required to participate regularly in class and group activities. Failure to participate may result in a grade penalty.. 

Attendance is required. There are no exceptions to this policy. If you cannot commit to the published times for this class for the entire semester, you should seek alternatives to this class. The instructor can help you identify a course that best meets your needs.

If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to find out what you have missed from your classmates. The professor does not repeat lessons individually for students who do not attend.

An absence is defined as arriving more than 5 minutes late, departing at any time before the class has ended, or missing a class entirely.

If you arrive late or must depart at any point during the class, be courteous to your fellow students and professor by doing so with the utmost care not to disrupt the learning environment with any noise.

If you are unable to attend class due to medical reasons, you should speak with the SAS Office to determine if medical accommodations are appropriate and/or necessary.

In the event the college or campus closes due to unforeseen circumstances (for example, severe weather or other emergency), AND WE MEET ON THAT DAY the student is responsible for communicating with their instructor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their instructor as a result of class sessions being missed.

Withdrawals 

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is listed on the ACC website.  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a W) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

Missed or late work 

Missed or late work is not accepted under any circumstances. Deadlines are announced, and all work is available, from the beginning of the course. Students are expected to pace themselves in order to meet the deadlines.

Tests (ONLY) may be submitted late but will incur a 50% penalty PER DAY meaning that you will not be able to pass the test if you are late. After 24 hours, the penalty is 100% (a ZERO) - don’t let this happen to you!

It is extremely risky and potentially disastrous to wait until the day of the deadline to complete work! Starting a test at 11:30pm could result in going past the deadline, resulting in ALL of your work on that test being late and incurring a late penalty, EVEN IF THE TEST IS JUST A SECOND LATE! Your grade will NOT be adjusted because you exceeded the deadline. You are warned, told, extolled, cajoled, and urged NOT to wait to complete your work! YOU (YOU) are responsible for managing your time - that is the nature of an online course.

AGAIN - You must SUBMIT (click Submit) your tests! If you do not, the timer will continue to run and submit for you when the time expires. IF THAT TIME IS AFTER THE DEADLINE EVEN BY JUST A SECOND the entire test will be LATE and WILL INCUR LATE PENALTIES. YOU (YOU) must ensure that the work is submitted before the deadline! Just click Submit and verify in the VHL gradebook if you are nervous. (It will say Pending).

Did you do that Orientation quiz yet?

Incompletes

If there is a documented extenuating circumstance after the last day to withdraw, you may be eligible for an incomplete. The student must be in good standing and have a C or higher. The student must consult with the instructor and the final decision will be at the instructor’s discretion. 

1.      Prior to the end of the semester in which the I is to be awarded, the student must meet with the instructor to determine the assignments and exams that must be completed prior to the deadline date.  This meeting can occur virtually or in person.  The instructor should complete the Report of Incomplete Grade form.

2.      The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.   

3.    The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  

4.      Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  

5.      When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline is not frequently granted.

Copyright violations 

By college policy, there shall be no copying of or from copyrighted works intended to be “consumable” in the course of study or of teaching. These include workbooks, exercises, standardized tests and test booklets and answer sheets and like consumable material. Copying shall not substitute for the purchase of books, publishers’ reprints or periodicals. 

College Policies

All College Policies must be followed in this class. Please review them by clicking on the College Policies and Student Support Services link in the menu for this class in Blackboard.

Additional Course Policies

If you are intending to cheat, this is NOT the course for you! 

There is ZERO TOLERANCE. You will get a zero on the ENTIRE test (at least) and risk being reported to the dean and above for further action. Furthermore, you may lose your PRIVILEGE of taking tests online. This means that you will have to take future tests at the testing center of the professor's choice IF THE PROFESSOR ALLOWS. It may be very far from your residence/work, may not be open late or on weekends, schedule by appointment only, or simply refuse to make an exception to allow you to test. Your dishonesty precludes ANY negotiation on which testing is chosen IF you are even permitted to use a testing center in the first place. NO, there is not an additional option to take tests due your violation of academic integrity. NO, you cannot take the test via Zoom. 

Generative Artificial Intelligence Policy
 

Introduction
This policy outlines the rules and expectations for the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) tools in this course. This course is designed to help students develop their language proficiency through personal effort, practice, and engagement with course materials. In order to preserve academic integrity and support authentic language acquisition, the use of GAI tools is not permitted for use in drafting, editing, translating, or completing any coursework unless specified otherwise by the professor. All assessments—including written assignments, in-class exercises, quizzes, and exams—must be completed using your own original language skills. The use of GAI in these assessments constitutes academic dishonesty. Submissions will be evaluated for evidence of authentic language production, and suspicious patterns may be subject to further review. Professors may check whether students using vocabulary and grammar beyond the level of the course understand their use.

Definition
Generative Artificial Intelligence refers to any software or application capable of producing human-like text, translations, or corrections based on prompts or inputs. This includes, but is not limited to:

• AI language models (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude, Bing Copilot, Gemini)
• Machine translation tools (e.g., Google Translate, DeepL, Reverso)
• Browser translation features (such as in Chrome, Safari, Firefox and others)
• AI writing assistants or rewording tools (e.g., Grammarly, QuillBot, Wordtune)

Students are expected to use their textbook, course notes and handouts, dictionaries, or other reference materials to complete assignments. 

Consequences for Violations
Violation of this policy is considered a breach of academic integrity and will result in the following consequences:

• AT LEAST a grade of zero on the affected assignment or assessment and probably ALL WORK FOR THE ENTIRE CHAPTER.
• A formal academic misconduct report filed with the College 
• Failure of the course and additional institutional disciplinary action

Repeat violations may result in more serious penalties as determined by institutional policy.

Exceptions
Exceptions to this policy may be made only with prior documented approval from the professor. Exceptions may include approved accommodations through Student Accessibility Services  or explicit instructor-approved use of GAI for specific tasks (e.g., comparing machine translation with human translation as part of a guided activity). 

If you have any questions about what constitutes appropriate or inappropriate use of GAI, or about potential breaches of course policies, please consult your professor for clarification.

Communication

While enrolled at ACC you are required to use your ACC email for all course correspondence. You are expected to check your ACC email regularly, at least 3 times per week. You are responsible for all information, including deadlines, sent to you ACC email addres.

Why not check it now? And do the Orientation quiz too? It won't take long!

In email, please be sure to include a specific topic in the subject line. Always sign your email with your full name and class as the professor's email is not specifically tied to this course.

The best ways to contact the professor are email to taltaner@austincc.edu (best and preferred) or phone -- 512 223 3238. Please note that NO TEXT MESSAGES are permitted. If you send a text message you will not receive a response - it is a landline so I will not see it.

Email is answered within 24 hours, M-Th. This means that if you send an email on Friday, you will not receive a response until the following Monday. Please do not be shy about email or phone. It is never a bother to help you.

However, if you have a technical issue, you will need to resolve that with the ACC help desk or VHL tech support. I am not able to diagnose computer issues though I am very glad to diagnose issues with the Spanish language!

If you anticipate, or are prone to, technical issues, use any of the college's free open computer labs.

Courtesy and etiquette

Small, quiet, clean snacks may be brought to class. Bags that crinkle, chips that crunch are examples of inappropriate snacks. Non-alcoholic drinks may be brought to class provided that a covering, sealable, lid is present.

Keep the room neat. Do not leave eraser bits, papers, food remnants or any other item behind. 

Keep your telephones in vibrate mode or – better yet – free yourself from it by turning it OFF for the few hours a week that we meet. Texting is not permitted in class.

Extra help

The professor is available to meet with you after class, by appointment, and during office hours.

There are also free tutors on most of the campuses in the tutoring labs and online.

Mobile devices

Mobile devices are a distraction in class. Turn them off or leave them at home. Class time is reserved for learning Spanish.

If you choose to use such devices during class time, you will be issued a warning. After the warning, further violations will result in your being asked to leave the class and you will be counted as absent.

If you cannot control your use of these devices, you are strongly advised to seek alternatives, such as online or hybrid courses.

Excused absences

You are given three excused absences (two in summer and 2 in Hybrid classes) – no reasons, excuses, medical notes, etc. are required although advance notice to the professor, if possible, is appreciated. 

Do not miss tests! They cannot be made up.

Absences beyond the permitted three (two in summer/Hybrid) are not excused for any reason. Guard your permitted absences jealously and use them wisely if needed.

Online courses do not require attendance but require meeting all deadlines.

I’m an A student

You will need to show that by performance on tests, adhering to the attendance policy, participating in class, and doing the assigned work.

I’m here for an easy A

It is easier to get an A by taking a challenge exam for a grade or, for credit, CLEP. You are required to attend this class and pay attention for 64 hours (32 in hybrid courses). A challenge or CLEP exam takes about 2 hours.

If online, you can expect 100+ hours of work.

I already know this material

This class is not for you. Take a challenge exam or CLEP test.

I was sick or had an emergency and could not attend

You must adhere to the attendance policy. You have several permissible absences to deal with illnesses and emergencies. If you need to exceed those permissible absences you should withdraw from the course and attempt it at a better time for you.

If online, you must meet the deadlines. No excuses. You have many weeks to prepare for exams and in accelerated classes time will be, of course, accelerated. Choose a course that meets your needs.

This course is offered every semester.

I cannot attend this course at the prescribed times

Seek a course that meets your needs. There are online, hybrid, and many other courses to choose from.

I cannot afford to buy the course materials

Take this course when you can commit to the initial expenses. Materials you are required to purchase cannot be resold if not used but are good for all Spanish courses at ACC – Spanish I through IV.

Contacting the professor

Seek the professor when you need help. He may not be able to drop everything to help you but is glad to set an appointment or meet during office hours.

Email is great for quick questions requiring a brief response; however, if a dialog is what you need (i.e. the response to the question will result in more questions/comments from you, you are having problems, etc.,) a face-to-face discussion is more suitable and easily arranged.

Tips for improving grades

Be honest with yourself. Are you spending enough time studying the material and doing the homework? Although it might take less time, many sources suggest 2 hours of studying per 1 hour of class time.

Take notes in class and while reading the materials. 

Actively participate in the class. The professor cannot tell the difference between those who are prepared and those who are not if you don’t participate.

Use the tutors.

Meet with the professor.

Use the online tutorials.

Things that will not improve your grade

Asking for more extra credit. Grades are already artificially inflated through lowered grade cutoffs and extra points on the HW for doing scoring just 75% on it per chapter. There is no possible additional credit.

Asking if there is “anything you can do” to get more credit. Other than improving your class performance, that’s it.

Asking if you can just get a break because you have worked too hard for the grade the professor “gave you”. Grades are earned based on performance, not effort.

Reassuring the professor that you “really know the stuff” even though it is not evident in your work. The professor can grade only based on actual results, not perception.

Telling the professor that this one class is going to “mess up” your GPA, your future, and your career aspirations. Your grades are based on your performance, not on any of these factors.

Telling the professor that you will not graduate or that this is the last class you have to take. Telling the professor that you have “already walked”. Grades are not based on any of these factors.

General and Tentative Schedule of Work

Schedule of work is subject to change. For accelerated terms, deadlines will be condensed to reflect the available class time. See Blackboard for your specific deadlines.

Week 1 Introduction to the course, Chapter 6 

2 Chapter 6

3 Chapter 6 and Test

4 Chapter 7

5 Chapter 7 and Test

6 Chapter 8

7 Chapter 8

8 Chapter 8 and Test

9 Chapter 9

10 Chapter 9

11 Chapter 9 and Test

12 Chapter 10

13 Chapter 10

14 Chapter 10

15 Review for Final Exam

16 Final exam

Chapters 1-5 of:

 

Vistas, 7th ed., Supersite + Websam, Blanco, Vista Higher Learning, ISBN 13 : 8220130919306 (digital access only but will give you everything you need for the course). 

This textbook is used in all four semesters of our Spanish program (1411/1412/2311/2312). 

It's a good idea to wait until the course starts in case there are additional, possibly cheaper, options to acquire the materials.

The main objective of this course is to develop competencies that align with the general education goals of critical thinking, interpersonal skills, civic and cultural awareness, personal responsibility, and written, oral and visual communication, in the Spanish language, at an appropriate level. The ability to understand and communicate and comprehend Spanish will develop along with the knowledge of the vocabulary, grammatical structures of the language, and exploration of how culture shapes communication. Two to three hours a day should be dedicated for the study of Spanish (at least two hours outside of class for each hour in class). If you feel you need extra help, you can find a Spanish tutor at the Tutoring Labs on all major campuses. This service is free to ACC students.

At the end of Spanish 1411, students should be able to do the following:

CRITICAL THINKING:

• utilize context, cognates, and related familiar words to understand written passages.
• determine what information is important when reading or listening for the gist or for specific information.
• utilize brainstorming and appropriate sequencing and visualization techniques to organize their writing.
• utilize language creatively to talk about their interests, friends and families, home life, and studies.
• compare and contrast aspects of Hispanic culture such as the education system, public transportation, and healthcare with their own, and discuss some advantages and disadvantages of each.
• explain why Spanish is spoken in numerous countries around the world and how.
• the geographic expanse has affected pronunciation of Spanish in those regions.
• explain the benefits of linguistic and cultural diversity in a society.

TEAMWORK (Interpersonal Skills):

• interview and present classmates, and tell information about them
• create dialogues with partners talking about their daily lives and other topics related to them
• help one another with areas of difficulty
• brainstorm in groups to organize tasks
• discuss perspectives on cultural differences with partners or groups

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (Civic and Cultural Awareness):

• compare customs when meeting and greeting people and explain how differences can lead to misunderstandings.
• utilize formal and informal speech correctly.
• compare and contrast aspects of Hispanic society such as the education system, public transportation, and healthcare with their own, and discuss advantages and disadvantages of each.
• compare values related to daily life such as pastimes, family, and traditions.
• name countries where Spanish is spoken and mention differences between them.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY:

• show time management skills by successfully completing tasks on time.
• acquire effective study habits for language learning.
• state how learning Spanish will be useful to them and improve their lives.
• name aspects of the Spanish language and culture of personal interest.
• make appropriate decisions when interacting with people from Spanish-speaking regions. 

COMMUNICATION (Written, Oral and Visual Communication):

• utilize context, cognates, and related familiar words to understand unfamiliar

material in written passages.

• determine what information is important when reading or listening for the gist or

for specific information.

• utilize brainstorming, appropriate sequencing, and visualization techniques to

organize their writing.

• exhibit conceptual understanding and control of courtesy expressions and appropriate

kinesics when speaking in Spanish.

• interpret and express ideas in the present tense on topics such as pastimes, studies and

university life, home life, and family through written, oral, and visual communication.