This course aims to integrate an intensive study of basic Italian with an overview of contemporary Italian culture in order to enable students to communicate effectively in Italian and understand an alternative way of living. Class focus will involve the four main skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in Italian with an emphasis on communication. Since language structure and culture are interrelated, students will be exposed to a variety of learning styles through music, games, magazines and recipe books from Italy. The instructor is a native of Napoli, Italy and has her M.A. in Italian Studies and PhD in Comparative Literature. No class Jan 18th and Feb 15th.