A year-long course which offers a thorough introduction to basic Italian language skills with primary emphasis on comprehension of the spoken language. The class, which meets five hours a week, is conducted entirely in Italian. Students interact with taped materials and submit written compositions on a regular basis. 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. 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.