This introductory course in modern Burmese is a sequel to Burmese 1A, and aims to build upon the core competencies in the Burmese spoken language and writing system acquired in 1A. The course is designed to further develop student proficiency in reading and writing Burmese script, and in holding conversation. Instruction will include foundational vocabulary, grammar, spoken and aural comprehension, and basic proficiency in written expression.

Students are expected to be able to read, with the aid of a dictionary, modern Bengali literature, and speak at a "high-intermediate" level by the end of the year. There will be viewing of Bengali videos at a mutually agreed upon time and in class from time to time.

Vietnamese 101B's goal is to improve conversational fluency, advanced reading competence, and facility in writing. This course also provides an introduction to the literature and culture of Vietnam through a close reading of Vietnamese language texts. Readings will vary from semester to semester and will include novels, short stories, poetry, and essays from the classical, colonial, and contemporary periods.

Fourth semester Intermediate Vietnamese with emphasis on Reading and Writing. A second-year course in Vietnamese vocabulary and syntax with intensive drills on short colloquial expressions and auditory recognition of speech patterns. Students will research authentic text in academic and cultural topics. By the end of the course students will learn to speak and write simple compositions and will have a cursory introduction to Vietnamese literature and sample readings from contemporary Vietnamese writers.

Second semester Vietnamese for beginners. A continued introduction to modern spoken and written Vietnamese, based on intensive drill of phonology and grammar structures for everyday topics. By the end of the second semester, students should be able to function successfully in ordinary Vietnamese conversation and read simple texts of moderate difficulty.

Introduces various types of written and spoken Urdu; vocabulary building, idioms, and problems of syntax; and conversation. Reading of selected fiction and nonfiction in modern Urdu, including fables, short stories, and poetry. Exercises in grammar, conversation, and composition.

The course concentrates on developing skills in reading, writing, speaking, and aural comprehension. Evaluation is based on attendance, written homework assignments, quizzes, dictations, and examinations. Conventional teaching materials may be supplemented by popular songs and clips from contemporary Indian cinema.

This course focuses on progressive acquisition of language skills to communicate effectively in Tamil. It facilitates development of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing competence along with basic grammar.

 

A study of the Buddhist tradition as it is found today in Asia. The course will focus on specific living traditions of East, South, and/or Southeast Asia. Themes to be addressed may include contemporary Buddhist ritual practices; funerary and mortuary customs; the relationship between Buddhism and other local religious traditions; the relationship between Buddhist institutions and the state; Buddhist monasticism and its relationship to the laity; Buddhist ethics; Buddhist "modernism," and so on.