Spanish 2540 'Latino' Literatures and Cultures

Fall, 2009

Syllabus

(Last modified: Sept 1, 2009)

Basic Information

Background:

This course is a Liberal Education course, Category 8. As such, we will "analyze contemporary issues and their relationship to individuals and/or social institutions in economic, political, educational, or religious systems." We also will "encourage critical...thinking...develop...oral and written expression...provide...awareness of...diverse cultural values." I hope to engage you in the learning process as you study about a topic which is and which will, over time, play an ever-increasing part in your lives.

In this course we will consider the following questions: Who are the 'Latinos'? What are the implications of this term, and what other terminology is used to refer to this group of people? How do 'Latinos' define themselves? When did they "arrive" in what is today the U.S., and why have they come? What are some socio-economic, political and educational issues which they have faced and which have affected them over time? What are the characteristics of their literature and other cultural manifestations, and how do the literature, art and music reflect the 'Latino' identity and their socio-political reality? How does 'Latino' culture interface with U.S. culture? What will be the future of 'Latinos'?

Goals:

• to answer with students these questions and others which arise
• to help students become aware of and understand this group of people who are soon to be, if not already, the largest minority in the U.S.
• to create cultural awareness and sensitivity among students
• to help students think critically about issues
• to practice and further develop oral and written expression

Texts:

• Gutiérrez, The Columbian History of Latinos in the United States Since 1960 (2004)
• Garrod, Kilkenny and Gómez, eds., Mi Voz, Mi Vida: Latino College Students Tell Their Life Stories (2007)
• Christie and González, Latino Boom: An Anthology of U.S. Latino Literature (2005 or latest)
• a novel by one of four contemporary writers: see term paper
• assorted readings/videos/cd's on reserve in the library or on the internet

Activities:

• Readings, Discussion
• Reflective Journal
• Quizzes as needed
• Term Paper
• Oral Presentations
• Exams

Grades:

[See http://www.d.umn.edu/egradebook]

• 35% Class Participation (including any quizes)
• 05% Reflective Journal
• 10% Oral Presentations
• 15% Term Paper
• 35% Exams (15% and 20%)

Notes:

• You must do all assignments to be eligible to pass this course. (This does not mean you will fail if you miss a quiz if you are absent.)
• Class participation is important; I expect all to participate, and for that, you need to keep any absences to a minimum, and to come prepared, which means having read and processed the information.
• Since 1922, the university's expectations have been that undergraduate students will study an average of 3 hours per week per credit (1 hour in class; 2 hours at home). I have tried to not assign more than 2 hours of work per class. Some students will take two hours; some will need less time to complete the assignments. If you are having difficult with the assignments, please see me sooner rather than later.
• If any student needs an accomodation to complete this course, please speak with me immediately.
• Important dates: Monday, Oct. 5; Friday, Oct. 16; Monday, Dec. 14; Week 13; December 21; see Schedule ; + Monday/Wednesday/Friday Journal submission
• Students are welcome to discuss readings outside of class. However, it is expected that each student will work independently on assignments turned in for a grade, unless otherwise directed. For information on the professional conduct of students please see: http://www.d.umn.edu/conduct/ .
• You are invited to participate in the Poetry Night reading, date to be announced.
• Computers in class may be used ONLY to take notes or to use information relative to the discussion under way.
• Please check your UMD e-mail daily. This is the only way I have to contact every one about events or about information for the course which you need to know immediately.
• I have signed us up for WebX, in case we decide to use it.