Department of Modern Languages

Stephanie L. Blankenship, B.A., M.A., Ed.D.
Chair, Department of Modern Languages
Assistant Professor of Spanish

Purpose

With a vision for global engagement, the Department of Modern Languages provides Christian worldview instruction in the study of written, spoken, expressed language, translation and interpretive skills, endemic literature, and cultural studies related to modern languages. The Department emphasizes the theory and practice of the applied discipline of second language acquisition, as well as linguistic analysis, in order to prepare students for future careers, ministry opportunities, and graduate study in languages, language education, and the language arts.

Honor Societies

Sigma Delta Pi Spanish Honor Society

Purpose

To recognize those who attain excellence in the study of the Spanish language and in the study of the literature and culture of the Spanish-speaking peoples.
To honor those who have contributed to the furthering excellence in the study of the Spanish language and culture through honorary membership.
To foster interest in Spanish language and culture among students of Liberty University and in the Lynchburg community.
To encourage the involvement of both native and non-native Spanish speakers in community service and leadership.
To promote student scholarship and encourage continued language study after graduation.

Requirements

3.00 overall GPA
3.25 GPA in Spanish coursework
At least one class in upper division Spanish coursework (300+)

American Sign Language National Honor Society

Purpose

To recognize those who pursue excellence in the study of the American Sign Language and in the study of Deaf history and culture.
To honor those who have contributed to the furthering excellence in the study of the American Sign Language and Deaf culture through honorary membership.
To foster interest in American Sign Language and Deaf culture among students of Liberty University and in the Lynchburg community.
To encourage the involvement of both native and non-native ASL users in community service and leadership.
To promote student scholarship and encourage continued language study after graduation.

Requirements

Second Year or more of ASL Studies
ASLI GPA – 3.5
Overall GPA – 3.0
Fill out Formal Invitation Letter by Due Date

According to the ASLHS Induction Ceremony instructions, only those who are juniors/ seniors are invited to participate in the Honor Society Induction Ceremony.

MLAN 301 Instructional Design in Teaching Modern Languages 3 Credit Hour(s)

This is a foundational course in the profession of TESL emphasizing proficiency in planning, instruction, and curriculum and design, and exposure to educational challenges particular to TESL.

Offered: Resident and Online

MLAN 419 Methodology and Curriculum in Teaching Modern Languages 2 Credit Hour(s)

Prerequisite: MLAN 403

The application and assessment of basic methodologies, curriculum, and activities for teaching second languages. Practicum: At least 20 hours of reflective classroom observation of pre K-12 and the teaching of two to three consecutive lessons. This is a capstone course.

Registration Restrictions: Admission to Teacher Licensure Program, Junior/senior status

Note: Must be taken before student teaching. May not be counted toward the Modern Language Major. Offered fall semester.

Offered: Resident

MLAN 420 Methods Teaching Practicum 1 Credit Hour(s)

Prerequisite: MLAN 403

At least 20 hours of reflective classroom observation of pre K-12 and the teaching of two to three consecutive lessons.

Offered: Resident

MLAN 453 World Languages 3 Credit Hour(s)

Prerequisite: MLAN 213 and MLAN 305

This course is a study of the phonology, morphology, and syntax of a selection of world languages which illustrate both the similarities and the differences among languages. Syntactic and morphological features will be observed in terms of their typological implications and the question of language universals.

Note: (Offered spring semester)

Offered: Resident

MLAN 495 Directed Research 1-3 Credit Hour(s)

Students who qualify will pursue studies of a particular interest as approved and supervised by the instructor. Must apply semester prior to completing internship.

Registration Restrictions: Junior or senior status

Note: (Offered on demand)

MLAN 497 Special topics in TES/FL 3 Credit Hour(s)

Offered: Resident

MLAN 499 TES/FL Internship 1-6 Credit Hour(s)

Professorial-supervised experience in first-hand internship opportunities in Teaching English as a Second/Foreign Language. Application procedures processed through the Career Center. Must apply semester prior to completing internship.

Registration Restrictions: Junior or Senior status

Note: (Offered on demand)

Offered: Resident