Publisher's Synopsis
Nexos Media Edition, a media-rich version of Houghton Mifflin's popular Nexos introductory Spanish program, offers total flexibility for a variety of course settings. Whether your course is a traditional classroom course, a hybrid course (combination of classroom and online instruction), or taught completely online, Nexos Media Edition offers solutions via a unique combination of print and digital components. These carefully integrated resources can be combined in any way to address individual course needs. The print components include a paperback text and supporting Student Activities Manual (SAM). The digital components include a robust interactive multimedia eBook and eSAM (housed in either Eduspace or Blackboard/WebCT) that provide an array of media capabilities. Developed as an integrated program, the print and digital options can be mixed and matched to address individual course needs. In addition, students may purchase a static, downloadable PDF eBook.Offering seamless integration of the National Standards for Foreign Language Learning, Nexos Media Edition includes all of the features of the print text to prepare introductory Spanish students to communicate meaningfully in interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes. Through realistic pacing of material, easy-to-use grammar, practical vocabulary, and a modern video story line that contextualizes grammar and vocabulary, the program provides rich linguistic and cultural content that engages students and promotes language learning. Situations, vocabulary, and activities throughout the text reflect a technologically up-to-date, Internet-proficient Spanish-speaking world that appeals to today'sstudents.Flexible, integrated print and digital resources accommodate a range of course presentation styles; for departments that offer multiple course formats, the Nexos program provides continuity and eliminates the need for extra preparation.Print-based format for eBook guides students and instructors with a familiar visual presentation for transitioning between traditional text format and e-learning.One-stop learning via a robust interactive multimedia eBook, housed in Eduspace or Blackboard/WebCT course management eliminates the need to navigate among different media, such as CD-ROM, Audio CDs, DVD, VHS and the Internet.Multiple platform compatibility allows instructors to deliver the course material--both text and Student Activities Manual (SAM)--in their preferred online format: WebCT, Blackboard, or Eduspace. An eSAM option powered by Quia is also available.Components for traditional classroom instruction include a paperback print edition, print and electronic Student Activities Manuals (SAM), and In-text Audio, plus a wealth of multimedia support.Options for the hybrid course include the paperback text and corresponding interactive multimedia eBook housed in either Eduspace, or Blackboard/WebCT. Students can refer to the text during class time and work independently with the multimedia eBook, which allows them to navigate right from the page to interactive practice, video clips, a chat feature for pair and group work, audio vocabulary support, and much more. For additional interactive support, students can purchase the eSAM.Electronic options for the online or distance-learning program include the interactive multimedia eBook and accompanying eSAM. The Nexos eBook (housedin Eduspace or Blackboard/WebCT) immerses students in a rich world of language learning, allowing them to hear vocabulary words pronounced, practice new grammar concepts, view video clips, speak and listen to the language, and interact with peers--as they are progressing through a lesson in the online text.Easy-to-navigate chapters guide students through the material, beginning with compelling chapter openers that introduce a theme, communication and cultural goals, and the chapter's region of focus.Students gain confidence, cultural awareness, and early speaking skills with relevant, contextualized vocabulary presentations linked to a high-interest storyline.Vocabulario util sections (2 to 3 per lesson) present words drawn from the video in manageable, thematic groups, through photos and dialogue excerpted from the video.Actividades following each vocabulary presentation provide a range of practice.Clear, complete, and accessible grammar presentations with real-life exercises motivate students to practice and master grammar.Gramatica util introduces one grammar point per chapter with realia to illustrate grammar in a real-life context.Sonrisas present a witty yet thought-provoking cartoon that offers students a relaxed perspective on their learning.Actividades accompany each presentation and feature two listening comprehension activities per chapter. Practice incorporates cultural themes and chapter content.Reading and writing strategies relevant to the chapter's theme and content motivate students to develop their understanding and use of Spanish.Thoroughly integrated cultural content brings language learning to life.Exploraciones culturales focus on expanding culturalawareness of the particular Spanish-speaking region featured in the chapter, Conectate activities direct students to relevant Internet sites for further exploration.Fijate! linguistic notes enrich students' learning by providing insights into the nature of language.Voces de la comunidad sections profile prominent Hispanics whose interests or profession relate to the chapter theme.Comparate! readings feature topics relating to the chapter theme and encourage cultural comparisons.
