This is a year-long course which offers a thorough introduction to basic Italian language skills with primary emphasis on comprehension of the spoken language. Students interact with taped materials and submit written compositions on a regular basis. The class, which meets five hours a week, is conducted entirely in Italian. Evaluation will be based on chapter tests and a number of unannounced quizzes (50%), a final exam (20%), completion of workbook and lab manual exercises (20%), and classroom attendance/participation (10%). Enrollment limited to 30. Students registered for 101-102 are required to attend and pass the sustaining program during the winter study period. Credit granted only if both semesters are taken.