Session Descriptions

The following sessions will be offered at World Languages Day 2011. This list will be updated as we add new sessions, so check back regularly for sessions you might be interested in!

Student Session Teacher Session

Sessions offered from 10:30 am to 11:20 am

10:30 am - 11:20 am Everybody loves Tolkien! (SESSION FULL) Don't know where to go? "Not all who wander are lost." J.R.R. Tolkien, beloved author of The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy, created over twenty languages with full grammars and vocabularies, working on some of them (like Elvish) for over 60 years. In fact, Tolkien coined the term "glossopoeia," which refers to the construction or creation of a new language. Join us on a quest through Middle-earth to uncover the secrets of the lore and many languages of Tolkien's universe: Elvish, Khuzdul, and more!

10:30 am - 11:20 am The power of yoga (SESSION FULL) The practice of yoga began in India thousands of years ago. But how can yoga help you live a balanced life in the modern Western world? Find out about yoga philosophy (Ashtanga yoga), breath control (pranayama), meditation (dhyana), chanting, and the ancient language of yoga -- Sanskrit. Learn more about yoga postures (asanas) and see a live demonstration of a flowing yoga sequence (vinyasa). Let's explore the power of yoga!

10:30 am - 11:20 am A toy thousands of years old: The Chinese diabolo You've seen it in stage shows like the Cirque du Soleil. It was introduced to the west 800 years ago. Chinese children have been playing it for thousands of years. Come see the Chinese Diabolo in action, and try it for yourself. Learn the basics of the traditional Chinese toy in this hands-on session led by the Lansing Chinese School Diabolo Team.

10:30 am - 11:20 am A mathematical dance: The Turkic languages So, what makes learning a language so hard? One of the trickiest parts is all the irregular stuff – irregular verbs, weird tenses, and “pronounce it this way, not the way it’s written,” right? Wouldn’t you like to learn a language that’s almost mathematical in its precision and predictability? In just 20 minutes, you can master the basics of Turkic languages (which have 21 branches spoken by some 200 million people in Eurasia). Among the most well-known Turkic languages are Turkish (75 million speakers), Uzbek (30 million), and Kazakh (10 million), all currently offered at MSU. Come and see how a language can “dance” to a precise beat. Don't miss the fun and mystery of this magical language family. It’s as simple as Gel! (Come!).

10:30 am - 11:20 am Senegalese club dancing and Mbalax music Come learn three of the hottest dance crazes in the clubs and best parties in Senegal: the Goana, Youza and Blokaas. Learn some West African French and Wolof while you enjoy the rhythmic sounds of Mbalax music, a fusion of western styles with traditional drums.

10:30 am - 11:20 am Want to get out of Dodge? See what opportunities Spanish can provide! Are you itching to travel and see a new part of the world? Maybe somewhere with lots of different geography, or maybe somewhere with rich culture, or maybe even just someplace warm? Well, Spanish can help you do that! There are over 20 countries that have Spanish as an official language, spanning three continents and the Caribbean. With a background in Spanish, there are a myriad of opportunities to travel, work, or live in a Spanish-speaking country! Come learn about some of the amazing options that await you!

10:30 am - 11:20 am Language and the brain (SESSION FULL) Language is an indispensable part of human culture. We use language all the time, to formulate and convey our thoughts and emotions to others, to help us analyze the world, solve problems and plan actions. And we have our brain to thank for this wonderful gift! Did you ever wonder how the brain accomplishes learning and using language(s)? During this session, we will explore this and other questions related to language in a fun and interactive way.

10:30 am - 11:20 am Considering MSU? How to apply to MSU and finance your college education Hear from representatives from both Admissions and Financial Aid! MSU has been educating students for over 150 years. How does our current undergraduate admissions process work? If you were to choose a major in linguistics or a language, would that affect your review process? What are some general college planning tips for current high school students? These and other questions will be answered during this session. Financing your education through a combination of grants, scholarships, work and loans means that every student who desires an education can make that desire a reality. You will also learn how you may use this aid for study abroad.

10:30 am - 11:20 am National Security Agency: A role for you The National Security Agency's Language Analysis unit is vital to the research, translation, transcription, reporting, and analysis of materials of national concern. In Language Analysis, every little word can have global ramifications. Working directly with the original written or spoken language, you are the first person to determine the relevance of intelligence collected, to analyze, and to put the information into context. In this information session on the NSA, you will receive information regarding what we do at NSA, what type of positions we have available, and how to apply.

10:30 am - 11:20 am Israeli folk dancing: Rikudey Am Israeli Folk Dancing has its roots in Biblical times. Most of today's folk dances are set to popular Israeli music. Arabic, Greek, French, Turkish and Latin dance, as well as American rock, have influenced modern Israeli dance. Learn a little about Israel, experience Israeli culture, dance with us and enjoy the music!

10:30 am - 11:20 am Globalization and what it means for you What is globalization? This is the buzzword for the modern era, but it is a term that does not have any clear meaning. Is the world shrinking? Are things getting faster and out of control? Are we part of a global community or is there greater diversity in ideas? We will discuss alternative meanings and measures, and try to figure out how globalization influences one's education, career path, and life.

10:30 am - 11:20 am Chinese Zodiac and symbols (SESSION FULL) This presentation will give participants a taste of Chinese language and culture. The most popular Chinese symbols will be discussed and the folk tale behind the Chinese Zodiac will be introduced. Participants will learn how to say the twelve-year cycle in Chinese and how to divine their futures from the zodiac. Come to the session and take part in the fun!

10:30 am - 11:20 am Kanga: The Swahili cloth with a message (SESSION FULL) Visitors to this session will find out about East African (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda) fashion and design, focusing especially on the versatile kanga, the famous Swahili cloth that "speaks"! You will learn about the many ways to wear it, the different ways it is used, the messages contained in its weave, and much more. You will also have a chance to learn a few greetings in Swahili - the language of The Lion King.

10:30 am - 11:20 am A taste of Korean language and culture (SESSION FULL) Do you think the Korean language is too "foreign" to learn? Do you think Korea is too far away, located almost halfway around the world? You will be pleasantly surprised once you taste the Korean language and culture in this session. Korean is a phonetic language like English, so it is easy to read. In fact, you can read Korean in one or two weeks. Furthermore, Korea is not far from you. It is in your pockets, homes, garages, computers and everywhere, just in different shapes and forms. Come to this session to find out more!

10:30 am - 11:20 am Humanity in action around the world Do you know the realities of armed conflict? Have you heard the other side of the story of what humanitarian organizations are doing to ease the suffering of those in need? Come to this workshop to hear the other side of the story. Find out what the International Committee of the Red Cross is doing across the world to limit the devastation of war, conflict and disaster through the rule of law and reunification of families. Also learn about what the Red Cross is doing locally to address this issue.

10:30 am - 11:20 am Russia and Russian today (SESSION FULL) Speak Russian in 50 minutes! You'll get an introduction to basic spoken Russian to help you negotiate the streets of Moscow and St. Petersburg (or New York!), followed by an overview of where Russian is spoken today. Play the "Name that famous Russian" game and check your knowledge of current events in Russia.

10:30 am - 11:20 am Egypt: Explore Um Al-Dunya, "Mother of the World!" (SESSION FULL) What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Egypt? Perhaps the Pyramids? Or maybe the recent protests there? In this session, we will explore Egypt’s tremendous importance in both the ancient and modern world and why it is often referred to as Um Al-Dunya, “Mother of the World”! There won’t be any camel rides, but you are still in for a bumpy adventure through Egypt’s glorious past and present!

10:30 am - 11:20 am What's your destination? Foreign languages and your career path (SESSION FULL) If you love languages, you might be thinking about continuing your language study in college and maybe even declaring a major in a foreign language. But what comes next? There are a world of possibilities for the direction you can take after graduation! This session offers an overview of the various paths available to those who study foreign languages. Think all you can do is teach? Think again! Come to this session to get inspired by how you might attain your goals by studying something you're passionate about.

Sessions offered from 11:30 am to 12:20 pm

11:30 am - 12:20 pm Want to get out of Dodge? See what opportunities Spanish can provide! Are you itching to travel and see a new part of the world? Maybe somewhere with lots of different geography, or maybe somewhere with rich culture, or maybe even just someplace warm? Well, Spanish can help you do that! There are over 20 countries that have Spanish as an official language, spanning three continents and the Caribbean. With a background in Spanish, there are a myriad of opportunities to travel, work, or live in a Spanish-speaking country! Come learn about some of the amazing options that await you!

11:30 am - 12:20 pm Israeli folk dancing: Rikudey Am Israeli Folk Dancing has its roots in Biblical times. Most of today's folk dances are set to popular Israeli music. Arabic, Greek, French, Turkish and Latin dance, as well as American rock, have influenced modern Israeli dance. Learn a little about Israel, experience Israeli culture, dance with us and enjoy the music!

11:30 am - 12:20 pm What's your destination? Foreign languages and your career path If you love languages, you might be thinking about continuing your language study in college and maybe even declaring a major in a foreign language. But what comes next? There are a world of possibilities for the direction you can take after graduation! This session offers an overview of the various paths available to those who study foreign languages. Think all you can do is teach? Think again! Come to this session to get inspired by how you might attain your goals by studying something you're passionate about.

11:30 am - 12:20 pm A taste of world music and Arabic fusion Have you ever heard a live Arabic instrument? How about a Jewish-style clarinet or an Indian tabla? In this session, led by the members of Arabic/world fusion band Wisaal, you will learn about these varied musical cultures by playing rhythms, singing, and dancing, and you'll be surprised to find out that the music isn't too "foreign" after all. You'll also see how music in general is a fun and very effective way to start engaging with other cultures, especially if you're thinking of traveling abroad someday.

11:30 am - 12:20 pm Japanese manga and French graphic novels: An unexpected match (SESSION FULL) The Francophone world has a long tradition of animation, from the Smurfs to Tintin, but the popularity of anime feature films and manga has skyrocketed in recent years. This session will be based mainly on the manga of Jiro Taniguchi, a Japanese artist well known for his work with French graphic novelists. We’ll see how the genre called la nouvelle manga has really taken off in France, with bandes dessinées heavily influenced by the Japanese style. Come and see French grammar and vocabulary come alive through this unique approach!

11:30 am - 12:20 pm The language of movement: The art of pantomime Learn to speak without opening your mouth! Find out how to use your body to communicate your feelings and ideas. Welcome to the world of pantomime: come to this session and learn how to impress your friends by doing the rope, the cage, the moonwalk, the wall, and more!

11:30 am - 12:20 pm Egypt: Explore Um Al-Dunya, "Mother of the World!" What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Egypt? Perhaps the Pyramids? Or maybe the recent protests there? In this session, we will explore Egypt’s tremendous importance in both the ancient and modern world and why it is often referred to as Um Al-Dunya, “Mother of the World”! There won’t be any camel rides, but you are still in for a bumpy adventure through Egypt’s glorious past and present!

11:30 am - 12:20 pm The Amazing Internet Race - Mexico (SESSION FULL) Get ready to run through the streets of Mexico...online. Come and play our Amazing Internet Race - an interactive, clue-based adventure game that’s just like the reality show! Use your wits and Spanish-language skills to solve devious clues each step of the way. The goal? Try to be the first team to find Daniel’s missing brother on the streets of Tijuana! Note: This session is entirely in Spanish and is limited to 20 participants

11:30 am - 12:20 pm The role of Language Analysts in the FBI today Language Analysts today support the FBI mission by providing translation support to FBI investigations. They interact with Special Agents to provide language support using many tools and resources. They also have to be aware of different guidelines established by the Department of Justice. The role of Language Analysts has evolved to require knowledge of history, religion, geography and culture in addition to language proficiency. Job duties include travel in the US and overseas to support the mission. There has been significant growth in the the FBI Language program in recent years - come to this session to learn how the FBI could be a part of your future!

11:30 am - 12:20 pm Dholki and mehndi: Weddings in India and Pakistan (SESSION FULL) Come to discover both ancient and modern wedding traditions from India and Pakistan, neighboring countries with some shared traditions. You'll hear the Dholki, a percussion instrument used to accompany singers as they prepare the bride for the ceremony. You’ll also learn more about the henna ceremony (mehndi), in which beautiful and intricate designs are painted onto the bride’s hands and feet (and sometimes the groom’s, too!).

11:30 am - 12:20 pm Language and the brain Language is an indispensable part of human culture. We use language all the time, to formulate and convey our thoughts and emotions to others, to help us analyze the world, solve problems and plan actions. And we have our brain to thank for this wonderful gift! Did you ever wonder how the brain accomplishes learning and using language(s)? During this session, we will explore this and other questions related to language in a fun and interactive way.

Sessions offered from 12:30 pm to 01:20 pm

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm The Arab world: A mosaic of dialects and cultures with a common language Come with us on a journey from Mauritania to Iraq! We'll tour many Arab countries to learn the numerous different dialects, taste different kinds of food, and try on different clothing. You'll learn to speak some Standard Arabic, known throughout the region and the official language of 25 countries. We'll also take a brief look at some of the recent events in the region and how they affect all of us.

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm A toy thousands of years old: The Chinese diabolo You've seen it in stage shows like the Cirque du Soleil. It was introduced to the west 800 years ago. Chinese children have been playing it for thousands of years. Come see the Chinese Diabolo in action, and try it for yourself. Learn the basics of the traditional Chinese toy in this hands-on session led by the Lansing Chinese School Diabolo Team.

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm The Amazing Internet Race - Mexico Get ready to run through the streets of Mexico...online. Come and play our Amazing Internet Race - an interactive, clue-based adventure game that’s just like the reality show! Use your wits and Spanish-language skills to solve devious clues each step of the way. The goal? Try to be the first team to find Daniel’s missing brother on the streets of Tijuana! Note: This session is entirely in Spanish and is limited to 20 participants

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm Out & about: A tour of MSU's campus Join us for a 50-minute tour of MSU's campus! See Spartans in their natural habitat, including the Red Cedar River, MSU's first-class main library, and various campus landmarks. Learn about MSU's more than 150-year history, and discover some reasons as to why over 47,000 students called MSU "home" this year!

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm Modern Turkish dance: Belly dancing and more! Did you know that Turkish culture has hundreds of folk and modern dances? Did you know that practicing Turkish dance means practicing Greek, Middle-Eastern, Eastern European and Eurasian dances as well? Would you like to learn a kind of dance that you may perform at your graduation party with your friends? Come and join us on this World Languages Day; learn Turkish, speak Turkish, play with Turks and dance Turkish style. You'll have a chance to get to know a fascinating culture, full of amazing facts and fun.

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm Germany beyond Lederhosen (SESSION FULL) What do you think of when you think of Germany? Is it sausages, beer and Lederhosen? These aren't the only things Germany has to offer! Find out some interesting and fun facts about Germany, test your knowledge in Jeopardy, and learn enough survival German to keep you from getting stuck in the land of Sauerkraut and soccer. Presentation in English with some German included.

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm Teens in South Asia: A world away from Michigan In this session, we’ll compare the life of a Michigan teen to that of adolescents in India and Pakistan. No Cheerios here–learn about a typical breakfast before school, and see how uniforms play a role in the Indian and Pakistani educational system. And if you think cricket is a cell phone company, think again–in these countries, it’s the most popular sport! Come to learn more about the differences—and similarities—between American and South Asian teens.

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm Dips and Salsa: Be the life of the fiesta while learning how to dance the salsa! (SESSION FULL) This workshop will teach people with no previous experience the basics of several kinds of popular Latin dances such as Salsa, Merengue, and Cha Cha Cha. The instructor will demonstrate how dance fits in with having fun, dating, and meeting people.

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm The role of Language Analysts in the FBI today Language Analysts today support the FBI mission by providing translation support to FBI investigations. They interact with Special Agents to provide language support using many tools and resources. They also have to be aware of different guidelines established by the Department of Justice. The role of Language Analysts has evolved to require knowledge of history, religion, geography and culture in addition to language proficiency. Job duties include travel in the US and overseas to support the mission. There has been significant growth in the the FBI Language program in recent years - come to this session to learn how the FBI could be a part of your future!

12:30 pm - 01:20 pm Parlez-Vous Michigan? Our state's French connection (SESSION FULL) Think you know the Great Lakes State? You may be in for a surprise! In this session, we will discover the linguistic origins of famous Michigan cities such as Detroit, Pontiac, Cadillac, Sault St. Marie, and Marquette, and shed some light on our not so commonly known French past. Come with us on an exploration of the often-surprising French origins of our state's place names, legends and folklore.

Sessions offered from 01:30 pm to 02:20 pm

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Love in Central Asia: The dating scene in Uzbekistan Think dating is tricky here in Michigan? Come for an hour to learn about the dating scene in Uzbekistan! Can you imagine your parents setting up all your dates? How about having your sister or aunt go with you on your big night out? In this session, you'll learn a little about Uzbek culture and life while exploring the dating world of an Uzbek teen.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm The language and practice of yoga (SESSION FULL) The practice of yoga began in India thousands of years ago and today we still use the ancient language of yoga, Sanskrit. Knowledge of yoga has now spread throughout the world. Discover some of the many aspects of yoga: physical poses (asana), philosophy (ashtanga), breath control (pranayama) and chanting. Find out how the ancient practice of yoga can still help you find balance in today's modern world.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Polish: The language of Popes, Nobel Prize winners, and Prime Ministers! (SESSION FULL) Do you know which Pope spoke Polish? Ever hear of Nobel Prize physicist Marie Curie (and many others of Polish heritage)? Do you know who was the Prime Minister of Israel in the late 1970s? Polish is now a language of over 50 million speakers living in Poland and dispersed all over the world - with 10 million Polish Americans in this country alone. Come to this session and learn more about contemporary Polish and the times when Polish was widely spoken between Berlin, Germany and Moscow, Russia, and in vast parts of Central and Eastern Europe.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Modern Turkish dance: Belly dancing and more! Did you know that Turkish culture has hundreds of folk and modern dances? Did you know that practicing Turkish dance means practicing Greek, Middle-Eastern, Eastern European and Eurasian dances as well? Would you like to learn a kind of dance that you may perform at your graduation party with your friends? Come and join us on this World Languages Day; learn Turkish, speak Turkish, play with Turks and dance Turkish style. You'll have a chance to get to know a fascinating culture, full of amazing facts and fun.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Where Mulan sword meets fighting fan: Chinese martial arts in five minutes (SESSION FULL) You might have seen the 1998 Disney movie Mulan. But do you know that Mulan Quan is also the name of one unique style in the Chinese martial arts system? Perhaps the only Tai Chi form created by a woman master, it offers not only offensive and defensive drills, but incorporates the artistic features of the fan "dance." You'll see demonstrations of Mulan style sword and fan by a certified female teacher from China and engage in simple, fun exercises. Plus, you will walk away from the classroom with a few Chinese phrases to impress your friends!

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm "German Idol": Popular music in Germany (SESSION FULL) Have you ever listened to German rap, pop, hip hop, punk, or rock music? Come and listen to popular German music and find out about the different kinds of music Germans enjoy! In this session you will learn about Ich und Ich, Juli, Clueso, Silbermond, Sido, and many more! Find out who Germans voted for on "German Idol" in 2010 and participate in interactive activities surrounding German music and music videos! You will get to know many different German bands and at the end you can compete with other students in a German pop music trivia contest!

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Tunisia: Cradle of civilization Explore North Africa’s Tunisia…learn more about this country that has been inhabited since 5000 BC. We will take you on a journey back to ancient Carthage, where Hannibal (aka “Rome’s worst nightmare”) was raised. Then we’ll discover beautiful mosaic artwork, stunning monuments, and twisted medina streets dating back thousands of years. Bridging the past and the present, we’ll look at events from this year’s “Jasmine Revolution” and the radical changes that are taking place in this Mediterranean country.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Languages and cultural diversity in Indonesia There are around 300 distinct native ethnicities in Indonesia, and 742 different languages and dialects. This session will discuss the most commonly used languages in the community, focusing on how language use differs between generations. What language do young people use, and why? The relation of language choice to other aspects of life will also be discussed. Part of the presentation will be listening to or watching short clips on language, cultures, music and learning how the messages are interpreted. Come to this session to see if some trends are the same whether you're in Jackson, Michigan or Jakarta!

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Extinction is not just for dinosaurs: What happens when languages go the way of the triceratops By the end of this decade, dozens of languages will cease to exist. Due to globalization, many native and indigenous languages are being forgotten as people instead choose to speak more prominent and widely-known languages. What does this mean? What is being lost? And why should we care? Come learn more about some languages on the brink of extinction, what caused their decline, and--most importantly--what we can do to help.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Study smart! Tips and strategies for language learning (SESSION FULL) Are you serious about really learning a language and not just jumping through the hoops? Language learning is not a spectator sport, so study smart and get the most out of your classes. Join us to discuss learning styles and strategies and to practice some techniques that will help your memory and jump start your language skills. While this session will focus on examples from Spanish, French, and German, the skills we will discuss and practice apply to learning any language.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm ¿Quieres salir conmigo? How to date in Spanish (SESSION FULL) If you’ve ever thought about studying abroad, we’ll give you a tip—the best way to learn a language is to date native speakers of that language. You might be thinking, how can you go out with someone if you don’t know what they’re saying? In this session you will learn colloquial dating and flirting phrases so you can feel more at ease chatting to that cute Chilean at the park or the Venezuelan mamacita at the supermarket. We’ll keep it clean but interesting through engaging skits, video, song, and dance.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm How not to offend a Swede (SESSION FULL) In this session you will learn enough Swedish to meet and greet the notoriously polite Swedes. In addition to learning a bit about the Swedish language, you will also be introduced to the intricacies of politeness in Sweden. Can recursive tailspins of thanking be avoided? Do Swedish knights say "Ni"? These and other questions will be answered.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Je vous presente... MSU French Club! Come learn about the new Michigan State University French Club to get ideas about how to start (or invigorate) one at your school! The French Club here is barely a year old but we're off to a running start. Check out what we've been up to and learn about all of our events planned for this coming semester, including conversation tables, career presentations, World Nutella Day, fundraisers, picnics, a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts, plus culture nights complete with movies, food, and music! See how you can do these things at your own school, and come prepared to share ideas with us and other participants. And of course we hope we'll see you in MSU's French Club someday!

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm The Amazing Internet Race - Mexico Get ready to run through the streets of Mexico...online. Come and play our Amazing Internet Race - an interactive, clue-based adventure game that’s just like the reality show! Use your wits and Spanish-language skills to solve devious clues each step of the way. The goal? Try to be the first team to find Daniel’s missing brother on the streets of Tijuana! Note: This session is entirely in Spanish and is limited to 20 participants

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Discover Kazakhstan: Between Europe and Asia If you look at the world map you can't miss Kazakhstan - it's the 9th largest territory in the world (the size of all of Western Europe!). And yet, it's not a country familiar to most people. Its name is Asian, however there are people from many nations for whom it became a home country in difficult times, and it is still home to many of them. Its state language is Kazakh, but many other languages are spoken there. In this session you'll visit this vast, varied, and hospitable country.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Out & about: A tour of MSU's campus (SESSION FULL) Join us for a 50-minute tour of MSU's campus! See Spartans in their natural habitat, including the Red Cedar River, MSU's first-class main library, and various campus landmarks. Learn about MSU's more than 150-year history, and discover some reasons as to why over 47,000 students called MSU "home" this year!

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Creating games for effective language learning In this workshop, we examine a variety of games and discuss their effectiveness as a language learning activity as opposed to simply a fun, filler activity. Example of games are presented with a focus on logistics and pedagogical soundness. Commonly used games are modified for more effective language learning and greater student engagement. New games are demonstrated and teachers are encouraged to share their own experience with games previously used.

01:30 pm - 02:20 pm Dips and Salsa: Be the life of the fiesta while learning how to dance the salsa! (SESSION FULL) This workshop will teach people with no previous experience the basics of several kinds of popular Latin dances such as Salsa, Merengue, and Cha Cha Cha. The instructor will demonstrate how dance fits in with having fun, dating, and meeting people.

Sessions offered from 02:30 pm to 03:20 pm

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Culture games: How well can you play? (SESSION FULL) Command of a language alone is not enough to communicate successfully across cultural boundaries. Awareness of some basic cross-cultural communication concepts, which will be presented in this session, can facilitate friendly interaction between individuals of different backgrounds. Learning a language is more than just mastering grammar and vocabulary. Please join us for this fun and interactive session! The entire session focuses on a cross-cultural game - see how well you know different cultures around the world. Candy from different countries will be distributed for 'best' answers.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm I <3 EU : The inside scoop on Europe (SESSION FULL) What are the must-see locations in Europe? Is the food in Europe very different from the food in the US? What are the cheapest ways to get to Europe? Do I need a visa to go to Europe? In this session you will take a virtual tour of Europe, get insider tips on what to do there and discuss how Europe has dramatically transformed in the last 50 years. Come and join us to see who will be crowned EU- champion and win great EU prizes!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm La pizza napoletana: The history and language of pizza (SESSION FULL) Have you ever wondered if the pizza we all know and love is the same as the "real" pizza, the pizza invented in Naples, Italy? Come and learn how to make your own delicious and all-natural pizza all-italiana, while learning the history of pizza making and basic cooking vocabulary. You'll follow a recipe all in Italian and will have a pizza base to take home. Buonissima!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Discover Thailand: The land of smiles Explore the language and culture of Thailand in this interactive session! Beautiful beaches, an exotic culture, and spicy-hot food continue to draw visitors to Thailand from all over the world, and Thailand is developing one of Southeast Asia's most important economies. Experience the Thai spoken and written language as you learn about Thailand's world-famous cooking, its fruit, its music, its cities, beaches, and countryside, and its fascinating people. Learn how to order Thai food, try the Thai alphabet, and get a Thai nickname.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Language and dance of the Middle East Do you want to learn how to write your name in Arabic, the language of more than 280 million people? Come on a journey with us to the exotic lands of the Middle East and learn how to speak some Arabic, as well as and how Arabic can help your career. Join us to learn the fun art of bellydancing and dabkeh, traditional dances of the Middle East, and try on traditional Arab clothes. Come to this session and you'll get a chance to learn about this ancient language and culture.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm ¿Quieres salir conmigo? How to date in Spanish If you’ve ever thought about studying abroad, we’ll give you a tip—the best way to learn a language is to date native speakers of that language. You might be thinking, how can you go out with someone if you don’t know what they’re saying? In this session you will learn colloquial dating and flirting phrases so you can feel more at ease chatting to that cute Chilean at the park or the Venezuelan mamacita at the supermarket. We’ll keep it clean but interesting through engaging skits, video, song, and dance.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Where Mulan sword meets fighting fan: Chinese martial arts in five minutes (SESSION FULL) You might have seen the 1998 Disney movie Mulan. But do you know that Mulan Quan is also the name of one unique style in the Chinese martial arts system? Perhaps the only Tai Chi form created by a woman master, it offers not only offensive and defensive drills, but incorporates the artistic features of the fan "dance." You'll see demonstrations of Mulan style sword and fan by a certified female teacher from China and engage in simple, fun exercises. Plus, you will walk away from the classroom with a few Chinese phrases to impress your friends!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Study abroad: The real story! Did you know that MSU leads the nation in study abroad? MSU offers over 200 study abroad programs to every continent of the world. Join us for a discussion about MSU students' experiences studying abroad. We'll hear from students who have lived and studied in a variety of countries. You'll learn why they chose the programs they did, how they adapted to culture shock, how they used the language(s) they studied before going, and some of the cool projects they did. You'll also learn how studying abroad changed the direction of their studies and careers, in some cases! Materials from MSU's Office of Study Abroad will also be available.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Out & about: A tour of MSU's campus (SESSION FULL) Join us for a 50-minute tour of MSU's campus! See Spartans in their natural habitat, including the Red Cedar River, MSU's first-class main library, and various campus landmarks. Learn about MSU's more than 150-year history, and discover some reasons as to why over 47,000 students called MSU "home" this year!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Flashed, baffed up, and ground no level o: Is this really English? Over 500 languages are spoken in Nigeria, but the official language is English. Nigerian English is another dialect of English filled with traditional proverbs, different vocabulary, melodic rhythms, and fun grammar. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, so come to this session to learn how to talk like a Nigerian, and you'll be able to say hello to 152 million people!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Odissi: The fluidity of Indian classical dance (SESSION FULL) Experience spiritual bliss as you move to the rhythms of Odissi dance! Odissi is a 2,000 year old classical dance that originated in the temples of India. The dance is characterized by its curvaceous movements, fluid poses full of languid grace, and paradoxical hint of strength through its firm footwork. This will be your opportunity to embody the techniques of this sensuous and lyrical dance and learn about its mythical origins. The presenters are experienced instructors and performers, having demonstrated Odissi in India and throughout Michigan.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Indonesia, China and the US: Worlds of contrast This presentation will compare and contrast some aspects of life of Indonesian, Chinese and American people. There will be discussions of aspects of school life in these three countries, then participants will learn about the beautiful landscapes, traditional dances, and delicious foods of Indonesia and China. The audience is invited to enjoy a traditional music performance, and to practice Chinese Taichi and Indonesian Pencak Silat (another martial art). You will also learn Indonesian and Chinese greetings and see how to write your name in Chinese and Javanese characters (the language of the island of Java, Indonesia).

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Assessing oral performance in the language classroom In this session we will review innovative assessment tasks that can be used for group oral assessment. We will also review several rubrics for rating students' oral production and discuss what raters need to know in order to use them. We will also review some techniques for actively involving students in the evaluation of their own speaking by looking at self-assessment techniques commonly used in Europe and the United States.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Colorless green ideas sleep furiously! What does this famous sentence mean and what does it tell us about how language works? Linguistics is the science of human language. It looks at how both words and sentences are formed and how different sounds are produced and allowed to combine in different languages. The field of Linguistics also tries to answer the question of how children are able to acquire this complex symbolic system even before they are able to do relatively simple tasks like dressing themselves and tying their shoes. We will explore in a fun and interactive way some of the phenomena that linguists try to explain.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Made in Germany: German movies, shows, and stars (SESSION FULL) Have you ever heard of Till Schweiger, Daniel Brühl, or Franka Potente? Come to this fun session to learn more about who's who in the world of German cinema! Watch clips of popular German movies and find out about German movie stars of the 21st century. In this session you will get an overview of famous German actors and actresses, German TV shows, and movies. You will participate in interactive activities about German shows, stars, and movies and compete with others in a German movie trivia contest!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm A taste of Arabic (SESSION FULL) Do you want to know how to introduce yourself in Arabic? Do you know how to respond to those to introduce themselves or greet you in Arabic? You are invited to attend this session, where you'll learn to do all of this and more. We want to put you on the way to dream in Arabic one day. Come ready and leave the class speaking enough Arabic to impress your friends! See how easy Arabic can be. We'll try to make all of this possible in just 50 minutes of your time - join us and learn to greet 1.2 billion of the world's Muslims!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm Luxembourg: A multicultural country in the heart of Europe Come and explore Luxembourg, one of the smallest countries in the world. It is tiny (only 2/3 the size of Rhode island, the smallest state!), yet beautiful and unique. Did you know that Luxembourgish is a language? Or that every Luxembourgish person grows up speaking several languages, such as Luxembourgish, German, French and English? In our everyday life we are surrounded by different languages and switch among them constantly. Over 30% of the people living in Luxembourg are foreigners, the number of foreign people who work there is over 60%. There are over 150 different nationalities living in the capital city! Why is Luxembourg so attractive? What makes it so unique and multicultural? Come and learn about a small country you may not have heard of before!

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm The endangered list: Documenting languages There are about six thousand languages spoken in the world today. Half of them are rapidly losing speakers; some have only a handful remaining. When these remaining elderly speakers die, the languages also disappear and the communities shift completely to other dominant languages. Every language is a depository of a world view--how the speakers understand the world around them. The death of any language, therefore, is a loss of a library. Language documentation attempts to preserve some of the knowledge and to make it available to others. This session will show you how one researcher is studying undocumented languages in Tanzania and give examples of how the Wakisi people deal with the issue of sex education with an interesting system of names and forms of address in the family.

02:30 pm - 03:20 pm French popular culture through TV commercials (SESSION FULL) In this session, participants will watch and discuss famous French TV commercials and learn about French culture. We will also look at popular slogans that have become part of French people's everyday lives (and that you do not learn in textbooks!). At the end we will vote on the best and worst commercials. Basic knowledge of French is recommended to understand the commercials although some translation will be provided.

Sessions offered from 03:30 pm to 04:20 pm

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Indonesia, China and the US: Worlds of contrast This presentation will compare and contrast some aspects of life of Indonesian, Chinese and American people. There will be discussions of aspects of school life in these three countries, then participants will learn about the beautiful landscapes, traditional dances, and delicious foods of Indonesia and China. The audience is invited to enjoy a traditional music performance, and to practice Chinese Taichi and Indonesian Pencak Silat (another martial art). You will also learn Indonesian and Chinese greetings and see how to write your name in Chinese and Javanese characters (the language of the island of Java, Indonesia).

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Beyond falafel: Explore Lebanese cuisine and culture! (SESSION FULL) Lebanese food combines the sophistication of European cuisine with the excitement of eastern spices, and it is Lebanon's culinary contributions that have been the greatest influence on modern Arabic cuisine. Dishes from Lebanon provide the framework for the exotic cuisine recognized internationally as “Arabic.” Come to this session, led by the owner of the mid-Michigan-famous Woody’s Oasis restaurants, and learn more about traditional Lebanese dishes. There are endless things you can do with yoghurt, cheese, cucumber, eggplant, chick peas, nuts, tomatoes, sesame, parsley, lemons, garlic, and more! As time allows, you'll also have a chance to learn about Lebanese music and traditional games such as backgammon.

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm A taste of Arabic (SESSION FULL) Do you want to know how to introduce yourself in Arabic? Do you know how to respond to those to introduce themselves or greet you in Arabic? You are invited to attend this session, where you'll learn to do all of this and more. We want to put you on the way to dream in Arabic one day. Come ready and leave the class speaking enough Arabic to impress your friends! See how easy Arabic can be. We'll try to make all of this possible in just 50 minutes of your time - join us and learn to greet 1.2 billion of the world's Muslims!

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Colorless green ideas sleep furiously! What does this famous sentence mean and what does it tell us about how language works? Linguistics is the science of human language. It looks at how both words and sentences are formed and how different sounds are produced and allowed to combine in different languages. The field of Linguistics also tries to answer the question of how children are able to acquire this complex symbolic system even before they are able to do relatively simple tasks like dressing themselves and tying their shoes. We will explore in a fun and interactive way some of the phenomena that linguists try to explain.

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm I <3 EU : The inside scoop on Europe (SESSION FULL) What are the must-see locations in Europe? Is the food in Europe very different from the food in the US? What are the cheapest ways to get to Europe? Do I need a visa to go to Europe? In this session you will take a virtual tour of Europe, get insider tips on what to do there and discuss how Europe has dramatically transformed in the last 50 years. Come and join us to see who will be crowned EU- champion and win great EU prizes!

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Luxembourg: A multicultural country in the heart of Europe (SESSION FULL) Come and explore Luxembourg, one of the smallest countries in the world. It is tiny (only 2/3 the size of Rhode island, the smallest state!), yet beautiful and unique. Did you know that Luxembourgish is a language? Or that every Luxembourgish person grows up speaking several languages, such as Luxembourgish, German, French and English? In our everyday life we are surrounded by different languages and switch among them constantly. Over 30% of the people living in Luxembourg are foreigners, the number of foreign people who work there is over 60%. There are over 150 different nationalities living in the capital city! Why is Luxembourg so attractive? What makes it so unique and multicultural? Come and learn about a small country you may not have heard of before!

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm La pizza napoletana: The history and language of pizza (SESSION FULL) Have you ever wondered if the pizza we all know and love is the same as the "real" pizza, the pizza invented in Naples, Italy? Come and learn how to make your own delicious and all-natural pizza all-italiana, while learning the history of pizza making and basic cooking vocabulary. You'll follow a recipe all in Italian and will have a pizza base to take home. Buonissima!

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm What's it really like in the Peace Corps? (SESSION FULL) Have you ever wondered what it's like to go to a new country and live there for two years with just a little language and culture training? In this panel discussion, returned Peace Corps volunteers will talk about their experiences living and working in diverse world areas. They will discuss learning different languages, working with local people, and learning about other cultures. Questions from participants are welcomed! Peace Corps representatives will also be on hand to answer questions.

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm You say toMAYto, I say toMAHto: Britain and British English It's well-known that speakers of British English don't pronounce their 'r's and have a funny way of saying words like 'tomato'. They also say 'pavement' for 'sidewalk' and put their babies in nappies, not diapers. How did all these differences come about? Why is it that many Americans think British English sounds 'better' than their own English, but British English speakers are often cast as villains in the movies? Along the way you'll get a crash course in English manners, so you will always know the proper way to hold a teacup at teatime....

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Gossip, multiple wives, magic, and royal weddings You might have thought of Henry the Eighth, Harry Potter, or the upcoming nuptials of Prince William and Kate, but all of the title topics also come into play in Nigeria, a West African country with the distinction of being the most populous on the continent. In this session, you’ll learn about the traditional Hausa royalty in Nigeria, headed by the emir or sarqi. Explore how these traditional “Royal Fathers” and their families continue to shape fashion, music, culture, economics and politics in modern Nigeria.

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Yookoso! Welcome to Japan What do you know about Japan? Ninja? Anime? Play Station? This session will give you an opportunity to learn about Japanese language and culture in a fun, interactive way. You will also learn Japanese characters.

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Balalaikas, babushkas, and..turnips? Russian folk traditions (SESSION FULL) In this engaging session you’ll learn about Russian culture through some of its beloved folk tales. Learn the names of animals in Russian as we stage the tale of Termok, the little forest hut with too many inhabitants. You’ll also learn how teamwork helps Grandfather and Grandmother pull up a turnip in Repka. Finally, you’ll have a chance to try out your coordination skills as you learn a traditional dance called Rucheyok, or “little stream.”

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Tae Kwon Do and self defense Have fun learning the traditional Korean martial art of Tae Kwon Do. We will try some basic blocks, strikes, and kicks. We will also learn some practical self defense techniques.

03:30 pm - 04:20 pm Culture games: How well can you play? (SESSION FULL) Command of a language alone is not enough to communicate successfully across cultural boundaries. Awareness of some basic cross-cultural communication concepts, which will be presented in this session, can facilitate friendly interaction between individuals of different backgrounds. Learning a language is more than just mastering grammar and vocabulary. Please join us for this fun and interactive session! The entire session focuses on a cross-cultural game - see how well you know different cultures around the world. Candy from different countries will be distributed for 'best' answers.

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