Foundations:
Content based
Content is just as important as language learning, and should not be limited to providing material for grammatical practice. Communicating interculturally requires that speakers have a broad and systematic understanding of the target culture in order to know WHAT to say, not just HOW to say it. Cultural learning is just as important for communication as language skills, and should be systematically taught from the very beginning, and not reserved for upper division courses.
One example of this can be seen in the two units devoted to Mexico and Spain. Students develop a solid overview of their historical development, unique cultural attitudes and relationship to each other and the USA, with special emphasis given to regionalism in each nation. Students will come away with a much deeper appreciation and respect for these countries and their people, which will encourage them to communicate and interact with native speakers.
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