Through intensive, guided practice, this course aims to raise a student's spoken proficiency from the intermediate to the advanced level.  Course resources include formal and informal texts from across the Spanish-speaking world, focusing on contemporary issues and using digital media for all kinds.  A global, intercultural approach is taken.  Examples of some of the themes covered are power and politics, the influence of mass media and technology, and current events.  This is a required course for all MLSP majors, however, Heritage speakers should take MLSP 316/Spanish for Heritage Speakers, rather than this course; consult the department for guidance.