Swedish



The main focus is on the development of the language skills, but there will be ample opportunities to learn more about the Swedish society - lifestyle and values.

Language teaching, from beginners’ level to intermediate, takes place in small groups, which provide a great deal of individual attention and interaction opportunities. Language courses in Swedish can be used to fulfill the foreign language requirement.  If students have some previous knowledge of Swedish and they wish to continue their studies at Columbia University, they will be placed into the appropriate level.

Elementary Swedish I: The goal of this course is to introduce students to the Swedish language as it is spoken in Sweden today. The main focus is on the development of basic language skills. The class will, however, also introduce important aspects of contemporary Swedish culture, society and traditions, geography, historical figures and events. A variety of different resources, such as Internet and authentic texts, will be used.

Elementary Swedish II: This course is a continuation of the introductory Swedish 101 course. It will introduce you to the Swedish language as it is used in Sweden today. You will also learn about aspects of contemporary Swedish culture, main events and figures in Sweden's history, and Swedish traditions. Authentic texts and Internet will be used.

Intermediate Swedish I: The goal of this course is to further develop the speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills you have acquired in the first year Swedish courses and broaden your knowledge about the Swedish culture and history. Topics emphasize contemporary Swedish life and cross-cultural awareness. In addition to the main text, newspaper articles, shorter literary texts, films, and internet resources will be used. Class will be conducted almost exclusively in Swedish. To succeed in this course, you must actively participate. You will be expected to attend class regularly, prepare for class daily, and speak as much Swedish as possible.

Intermediate Swedish II: The goal of this course is to further develop your speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills and broaden your knowledge about the Swedish culture, history and literature. Topics emphasize contemporary Swedish life and cross-cultural awareness. Topics to be covered include Sweden's regions, the education system, the party and political system, major historical and cultural figures, and the Swedish welfare state. In addition to the main text we will use a selection of short stories, newspaper articles, films and audio resources available on the internet. Class will be conducted almost exclusively in Swedish. To succeed in this course, you must actively participate.  The student is expected to attend class regularly, prepare for class daily, and speak as much Swedish as possible

For course time-frame availability, please refer to the course directory.

Classes meet at Deutsches Haus, 420 W 116th St.