You will develop your linguistic competencies in listening and reading as well as your performance in speaking and writing Spanish. The objective is to attain language skills corresponding to level B1.2–B2.1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

After completing this course, you can understand extended speech and lectures and follow even complex lines of argument, provided the topic is reasonably familiar.

You can understand texts that consist mainly of typical everyday or job-related language. You can understand articles and reports concerned with contemporary problems in which the writers adopt particular attitudes or viewpoints.

You can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where Spanish is spoken. You can enter unprepared into conversation on topics that are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to everyday life (e.g. family, hobbies, studies, work, travel and current events).

You can talk about a wide range of subjects related to your field of interest. You can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. You can connect phrases in order to talk about experiences and events, your dreams, hopes and ambitions.

You can write clear, connected text on a wide range of subjects related to your own interests. You can write a simple essay or report, passing on information or giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view. You can write letters highlighting the personal significance of events and experiences.

The focus is on working life, e.g.

– company presentations representing various fields with information on the form of enterprise, personnel, organizational structures, job titles, foreign trade and environmental issues
– texts on business and economy including topics such as entrepreneurship, regional development and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
– cross-cultural communication
– CV, work application and presentation video
– trade fairs and expos.

Communication: everyday expressions and work-related vocabulary needed at work, formal and informal register.

Grammar: reviewing the past tenses and the subjunctive in the present tense. The future, the conditional, the imperative and the use of the subjunctive mood with its tenses.

Culture: communication culture, customs and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world.

At least level A2.2 in Spanish, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (https://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/sites/default/files/cefr-en.pdf).

For example, Spanish 1, 2 and 3 courses successfully completed at JAMK UAS (15 ECTS), or successfully completed Spanish courses 1–8 in a Finnish high school as a B3-language (approx. 2.5 years).

0-5

1
A minimal level of Spanish is demonstrated in relation to the objectives and contents of the course. You are able to interact in Spanish and deal with routine situations typical of everyday life, although some problems occur with basic structures and limited vocabulary. You struggle but manage to complete assignments. You can write brief work-related messages, but errors with language take place, which sometimes holds back communication. Class participation was weak.

2
A basic level of Spanish is demonstrated in relation to the objectives and contents of the course. You can deal with various routine work-related situations in Spanish, although with effort and difficulties. You can understand brief texts and TV programs on familiar work-related topics. You can briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. Some errors occur in spoken and written production, which may hold back communication. Assignments were sometimes completed late and with reminders. Class participation was passive.

3
You demonstrate a good level of Spanish in relation to the objectives and contents of the course. This can be seen by the understanding and production of language with assistance. You are able to interact in various basic work-related tasks both orally and in writing despite some hesitation and minor problems with the language. You understand the main parts of brief texts and TV programs on clearly narrated and familiar topics. Assignments were completed on time and fulfill many of the requirements. Class participation was sometimes active.

4
You demonstrate a very good level of Spanish in relation to the objectives and contents of the course. This can be seen by your understanding and production of familiar topics and extended language on unfamiliar topics with some difficulties. You are able to communicate in many regular social encounters pertinent to everyday life, as well as at work. You are able to use the work-related vocabulary and register required both orally and in writing. You understand texts from your own professional field. You understand clear standard speech and the main point of many TV and radio programs on current affairs of personal or professional interest. Assignments were completed independently, as scheduled and fulfill most requirements. You were active in the contact lessons.

5

You demonstrate an excellent level of Spanish in relation to the objectives and contents of the course. This can be seen by your understanding and production of extended language, even on unfamiliar topics. You can interact with others according to the cultural norms. You are in command of the central work-related vocabulary and sentence structures. You can write brief messages and reports with few errors. You can understand standard speech. Assignments were completed independently, as scheduled and fulfill all requirements. You were very active in the contact lessons.