Students must complete a language requirement of one year at the introductory level (105 and 106; 106 and 207), or one term at the intermediate level (207). There are three ways to fulfill the language requirement if you continue with your language of study.
-
Students whose ability indicates placement in 105 will take 105 and 106. * Students who place in 106 will take 106 and 207.
-
Students who place in 207 will take 207 only.
-
Students can receive advanced placement (208 or above) only through direct consultation with the language program director of chair of languages.
-
NOTE: Courses that students take below their level of placement will not count towards fulfillment of the language requirement.
Here is a general overview of courses at the 105, 106, and 207 levels.
105: For absolute beginners. This course assumes no knowledge of the language. Emphasis is on fundamentals of grammar, acquisition of vocabulary, listening comprehension, basic oral expression, elementary writing, and short readings on topics pertaining to culture. Taught largely in the target language.
106: For low level elementary learners. This course assumes that students have had some introduction to the language. The course resumes from 105 mid way through an extensive overview of grammar and continues with acquisition of grammar, listening comprehension, oral expression, elementary writing, and short topics on culture. Also taught largely in the target language.
207: For intermediate level learners. Intensive review with frequent practice in oral expression and listening comprehension; special emphasis on developing reading and writing skills via encounters with authentic texts and videos. Taught primarily in the target language.
You are free and encouraged to start a new language at W&J. Students may start at 105 in any language in which they have no experience. Currently, W&J offers seven languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, Japanese, German, Russian, and Spanish. Students may also transfer in courses to fulfill the language requirement with pre-approval according to college guidelines.
Language Placement Appeal
If you feel that your language requirement placement is too low or too high, you may consult with a professor in your field of study. However, there are minimum placement levels for all languages at W&J. For example, students with significant experience in a language may not take beginning level courses in that language. This policy is to ensure quality of instruction and to guarantee open seats for true beginners. Here are contacts for specific languages we offer.
