Avanzando - PROGRAM SAMPLER

v i i P R E F A C E Precise grammar explanations, engaging readings, and a flexible organization are just a few reasons why Avanzando: gramática española y lectura , Seventh Edition, is so effective in high- intermediate to advanced Spanish courses both for heritage and non-heritage students. Featuring a new thematic approach that exposes students to current topics, Avanzando continues to offer a comprehensive look at Spanish grammar. The flexible organization of the text, which has been tested and refined through six highly successful editions, encourages stu- dents to build on their current Spanish language skills and learn more advanced grammar points while developing their cultural knowledge and critical thinking skills, all in Spanish. The clear grammar explanations and thorough practice activities are complemented by engaging, theme-based readings in each chapter in Part I, and a selection of short stories by well- known Spanish and Latin American authors in Part II. Reading activities encourage close reading and analysis of the texts, and are designed to develop critical thinking skills and to generate class discussion. Here is how Avanzando: gramática española y lectura , Seventh Edition, works: Part I: Gramática y lectura Each chapter is organized around three main components: Lectura . A reading selection introduces the theme of the chapter. Reorganized for the seventh edition, each selection is preceded by vocabulary-building tasks and pre-reading questions. Post- reading activities aim to 1) verify students’ comprehension of the selection, 2) elicit their opin- ions and views on the topic, and 3) generate analysis and spark discussion of the information presented. Gramática. Grammatical explanations are presented in simple Spanish with multiple examples drawn from the chapter theme, and English equivalents are provided for the most difficult struc- tures. The topic of the chapter’s opening Lectura is carried over in grammar activities, blending practice of specific structures with additional opportunities for students to express their ideas on the chapter theme. Práctica de escritura. This component reviews and expands on the rules of accentuation in- troduced in the preliminary chapter. Accent rules are applied as they relate to specific grammar points presented in the chapter. A brief section introduces other spelling rules. Finally, students are presented with topics for written composition related to the chapter theme and asked to think critically and express their ideas on them. Questions and suggestions are included to guide the students through the writing process. Part II: Lectura This part includes four short stories by well-known Spanish and Latin American writers. Intro- ductory questions, vocabulary and vocabulary practice precede each story which is followed by comprehension and analysis questions. Grammar exercises focusing on the review of a particular structure exemplified in use in the story complete the post-reading activities.