5/1/18
VMI
Dear Reader:
I can forecast language barriers, translate administrative forms, and use basic Spanish in speaking and writing. The following assignments demonstrate what I can do in Spanish: Webcast Script, IPA I conversation, 5 Tricks card game, and the Hotel Reservation.
In the webcast script I demonstrated that I can use simple sentences to inform others on the culture of Chile. I gave facts about the products, perspectives and practices in Chile. For instance, I mentioned how Chile is very formal and they use appropriate titles when addressing others. Additionally, their society is largely influenced by the Catholic church. Armed with this knowledge, I would be able to interact with Chileans without infringing on any social norms.
In the IPA I conversation I demonstrated that I can sell an airplane ticket in Spanish. My partner needed to buy a ticket to Miami, so I asked him questions about where he was going, how many tickets, when he needed to arrive and return, which type of seat he wanted and more. As an airline agent, I asked questions that pertained to buying an airline ticket using the appropriate verb form, and even summarized his purchase. After this experience, I would be able to use my knowledge of vocab, sentence structure and verb conjugation to effectively purchase an airplane ticket. This should be helpful this summer as I plan to travel to Peru.
In the 5 Tricks card game I demonstrated that I forecast cultural barriers. Unbeknownst to the players, each group was given different instructions on how to play the card game. The trick was we could not communicate whatsoever. After rotating groups, it was obvious we were playing by different rules. I learned the importance of communication and that foreigners need to know the native language at a basic level in order to communicate effectively.
In the Hotel Reservation I demonstrated that I can translate an administrative form, and answer the questions. I used cognates and context clues to identify the meaning of unknown words. After this assignment, I am confident I can complete basic forms in Spanish.
Sincerely,
Charles Palandati