Spanish in the US

This course examines Spanish in the United States from a sociolinguistic perspective, including linguistic, historic, demographic, social, educational and political issues. We will explore the formal linguistic structures of Spanish in the U.S. and everyday social lives of Spanish speakers. Topics will include: regional differences, bilingualism, codeswitching, language ideologies, Spanish as a heritage language, Spanish in politics and the media (e.g. TV, movies, music), Spanish in various social institutions (e.g. medical or labor contexts), bilingual education, and language and identity. Special focus will be given to Spanish in Massachusetts and the Northeast region of the US. When possible, students will be engaged with opportunities to apply their learnings in a community-engaged way. Readings will be in Spanish, while class lectures will be in English. (Gen. Ed. SB, DU)