This course is designed for students with little or no previous exposure to modern Hebrew. Over the fall semester, students will become familiar with the Hebrew alphabet, and acquire rudimentary skills in reading, writing, speaking and comprehending modern Hebrew. By the end of the semester, students will be able to read short texts, construct normative sentences, and conduct simple conversations. In addition, a wide range of audiovisual materials will provide the students with an immersive environment, contextualize their knowledge of the language, and help them gain an understanding of life and culture in Israel.

This course is designed for students who have completed basic modern Hebrew language courses, and aims at further developing reading, writing, speaking and comprehending skills. Emphasis will be placed on grammar and syntax, on conversational skills, and on creative writing. By the end of the Fall term students will be able to read and analyze literary texts, respond to and discuss contemporary media contents (films, journal and newspaper articles, blogs), to give class presentations and write short essays.

Through viewing, discussion, and analysis of filmic representation of overarching themes in Israeli cinema, this course promotes four primary outcomes: increased student proficiency in Hebrew, attainment of a basic knowledge of Israeli cinema, development of the skills for filmic analysis, and increased understanding of the State of Israel and fundamental issues related to its character. Course taught in Hebrew. This year's themes are religiosity in Israel; Israeli Palestinians; the military in Israeli life.