Spanish Language and Culture

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

Less than a quarter of the world speaks English. Learning another language unlocks opportunities—for travel, career advancement, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have a foundation in Spanish, this Trinity Elective will enhance your language skills while introducing you to Spanish-speaking cultures and contemporary societal themes.

Speaking the world’s second most widely spoken native language brings practical advantages—from increased employability to deeper connections with people worldwide. Learning Spanish will also develop your critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and cognitive flexibility, making you a more adaptable global citizen.

Visiting students should note that the modules may not fulfil language credit requirements in your home university and you should confirm this before enrolling.

Beginner Level: Spanish Language and Culture

This course is designed for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Spanish. It introduces the fundamentals of speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while also exploring a key cultural topic in its linguistic context.

What will I learn?

• Communicate appropriately at a beginner’s level (CEFR A1).
• Explore Spanish-speaking cultures and societies.
• Understand the basics of Spanish linguistic structures.
• Reflect critically on your language-learning journey.

What will I do?

• Attend 9 x 2-hour face-to-face classes.
• Engage in 82 hours of self-directed activities, including online learning, quizzes, and cultural discussions.
• Prepare and deliver a Pecha Kucha presentation on a key cultural topic.

How will this be assessed?

• 30% Language quizzes.
• 30% Participation in online cultural discussions.
• 10% Reflective learning journal.
• 30% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script.

Advanced Level: Spanish Language and Culture

This course is for students who have completed Leaving Certificate Spanish (or equivalent) and wish to take their fluency to the next level. You’ll refine your speaking and writing skills while exploring a cultural topic in depth.

What will I learn?

• Communicate confidently at an advanced level (CEFR B2).
• Analyze complex linguistic and cultural topics.
• Develop critical and independent thinking in Spanish.
• Deepen your understanding of societal challenges in the Spanish-speaking world.

What will I do?

• Attend language classes to improve fluency and accuracy.
• Participate in interactive discussions and cultural reflections.
• Prepare an individual presentation on a cultural issue.

How will this be assessed?

• 30% Language quizzes.
• 30% Participation in online cultural discussions.
• 10% Reflective learning journal.
• 30% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script.

Who can take this Trinity Elective?

Any eligible student may take this Trinity Elective, except for those enrolled in:

• Business Studies and Spanish
• Spanish in the School of Languages, Literatures and Cultural Studies

Level Requirements

• Beginner Level (A1): For complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Spanish.
• Advanced Level (B2): For students with Leaving Certificate Spanish or equivalent.
• Native speakers are not eligible.

Students must accurately declare their proficiency level. Enrolments will be screened, and students who select an incorrect level may be reassigned to another available Trinity Elective.

* Please note that assessment methods, assessment weightings and amount of contact hours are subject to change by the module coordinator. You can confirm all assessment details and expected contact hours with the module coordinator upon starting the elective.