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Five classes to take if you need an easy language

By 1 September 2010 No Comments

You have to take a language to graduate from Yale, but no one says it has to be a hard one!  Here the Bullblog’s list of ridiculously easy the most enriching language classes you can take at Yale:

1. Polish — PLSH 110 — Krystyna Illakowicz

I always thought Polish looked really difficult, but apparently it’s not at Yale. The class focuses on “spontaneous oral expression” and even utilizes “video materials!” One student remarked, “it basically gets me up in the morning. It’s really fun.” Another student aptly (?) pointed out that “it is useful to know Polish for the FBI with Russia getting daring in the Slavic countries.” Easy, fun, and (questionably) useful.  What more could you want?

2. Czech — CZEC 110 — Karen von Kunes

Like Polish, Czech is another one of those rarely used, slightly frightening languages. But fear not. Students rave about Czech at Yale, saying, “If you don’t take this class you are missing out,” and touting it as “highly recommended.” One student summed it up pretty well: “If you want an easy language credit in a fun environment, take Czech. It’s pretty much all jocks, but you don’t have to be one.” Whether you’re a jock or just enjoy learning a guttural language surrounded by beefy football players (a small contingent, I know), Czech is probably the best option.

3. Indonesian — INDN 110 — Indriyo Sukmono

I didn’t even know Yale offered this until yesterday, but apparently it’s a hidden gem.  Students say, “Yes! Take it” and “its a great class. pak indriyo is a stud. its easy. take it if you can.” Enough said.

4. Sanskrit — SKRT 110 — David Brick

This is a great option if you want to take a classical language but are scared of Latin and Greek. Students explain, “This is worth taking because it’s really not that hard. You do about 45 minutes of work per week.”  45 minutes divided over 5 days is 9 minutes per day. By my calculations, you could definitely complete all of the homework for this class in the commercial breaks of your favorite TV shows.

5. isiZulu — ZULU 110 — Sandra Sanneh

To be honest, I really have no idea if this class is easy, but it sounds fun. Emphasis is placed on “the sounds of the language, including clicks and tonal variation,” and the class makes use of “readings and documentaries in ENGLISH.” It sounds remarkably similar to an elementary school music class or a Lamaze class!

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