 "Photo: PREFACE PHOTO/Jeff Tatay")
The IU South Bend Spanish Club finished the spring 2010 semester with a presentation of the Latin American country Chile.
The Spanish Club wants students to have the opportunity to learn about the Latin American world and the Spanish language and have fun while doing it.
“The Spanish Club was created for students who want to practice and learn more about the Spanish language and Latin American cultures,” said Jose Luis Lopez, president of the Spanish Club.
The Spanish Club serves as a useful and enjoyable way for secondary language learners to increase Spanish language acquisition and learn more about the various cultures of Latin America.
“I’m not very strong in the Spanish language, but I wanted to learn more about the cultures and language because I plan to teach in Chicago and it is likely that I will encounter a lot of non-native English speakers,” said Nick Titus.
“Usually the Spanish Club features presentations from specific Latin American countries. Tonight was Chile.”
Chile native and Goshen resident Pilar Barahona gave the presentation on Chile. Barahona talked about the history, culture, and notable geographical landmarks of Chile as well as the recent catastrophic earthquake that claimed many lives.
“One of the purposes of the club is to make cultures known, the other is to expose students to the different accents,” said professor Gabriela Ramis, Spanish Club advisor. “Many times students have more contact with Mexican culture due to the proximity of Mexico to the United States and the significant number of immigrants from that country.”
The culture, language and knowledge that students can acquire with the Spanish Club comes from listening to various speakers from different countries as well as reading and studying literature and drama.
“Other events included readings of plays and drama. The students get a vocabulary list to help better understand the text and they read the different characters in the play. We also translate what we read,” said professor Ramis.
“It’s a nice opportunity to practice the language, expand your vocabulary, learn something about literature and have fun.”
All IUSB students are invited to join the Spanish Club and enjoy the entertainment and experience of studying Latin American cultures and the Spanish language. The club is open to suggestions for next year’s club events. For more information contact fiesta12@iusb.edu.
