Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics This course is an introduction to the theory and methodology of linguistics as applied to the study of Spanish. The course’s goals are to understand the basic characteristics of human language (and of Spanish in particular), and to learn the techniques used to describe and explain linguistic phenomena. We will study the sound system (phonetics/phonology), the structure of words (morphology), the construction of sentences (syntax), as well as the history and sociolinguistic variation of the Spanish language, as spoken in communities in Europe, Latin America, and Northern America. We will examine texts, speech samples, and songs, illustrating these linguistic phenomena.

Intermediate Spanish II A course for students seeking to perfect their academic writing skills in Spanish. The course is also an introduction to literary analysis and critical writing and will include reading and oral discussion of literary texts. The course will also include a thorough review of grammar at a fairly advanced level. This course may be used to fulfill the foreign languages distribution requirement.

Bilingualism in the Spanish-Speaking World What does it mean to be bilingual? In this course we will study bilingualism with a special emphasis on Spanish-speaking bilinguals in Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Course topics will include social, political, linguistic, and psychological aspects of bilingualism. Special attention will be paid to societal bilingualism, language use among a group or community, individual bilingualism, how an individual’s language use changes in different contexts and throughout an individual’s lifespan, and government and educational policies throughout the Spanish-speaking world. We will study texts, speech samples, and media that highlight different aspects of bilingualism. (At least two Spanish courses at the 0300 level or above, or by waiver)

Spanish for Heritage Speakers This course is specifically designed for heritage speakers, i.e., individuals who grew up speaking Spanish at home but were formally educated in another language, or individuals from similar contexts. In this course students will learn about different aspects of their own varieties of Spanish, social perceptions towards them, and how these varieties are valid forms of communication. Additionally, students will study grammatical differences between their varieties of Spanish and a more formal, academic Spanish. The grammatical aspects will primarily focus on written Spanish, vocabulary, and verb tenses that tend to vary in different varieties of Spanish. (by placement exam or waiver) 3 hrs. lct.

Language Access Language access makes the difference between life and death for some of the most vulnerable people navigating and fleeing crises and conflicts worldwide. In this course, students will explore language justice and access within immigration, public health, and educational systems and settings. Students will learn to distinguish the roles of translators and interpreters working in the asylum, detention, and humanitarian parole legal processes. Students will also gain a detailed understanding of the responsibilities and strategies of interpreters and translators in high-stakes and crisis situations by learning from (and supporting) those engaged in language access work, advocacy and research. This course will require engagement with community partners in independent research.

The Sounds of Language: Introduction to Phonetics and Phonology In this course we will study the description and analysis of speech: how the sounds of language are physiologically produced, acoustically represented, and psychologically perceived and categorized. Through acoustic and phonological analysis, students will develop the skills to distinguish and produce the sounds of the world’s languages, as well as explore the sound systems of different languages, in order to determine which patterns differ and which patterns are common to all. Students will hone their analytical and technical skills by solving phonological problem sets as well as by using computer software (Praat) to analyze the acoustics of speech.

Beginning Spanish II This course is a continuation of SPAN 0101. Intensive reading, writing, and oral activities will advance students’ proficiency in Spanish in an academic setting.

Brandon Baird

Reviews and ratings for Brandon Baird at Middlebury College.Brandon Baird teaches Hispanic Linguistics, Intermediate Spanish II, Hispanic Bilingualsim and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Brandon Baird good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

This is one of the most impactful classes I have taken! Professor Baird has such a passionate and engaging personailty. He was very open to all backgrounds and forms of spanish in the class. Since this was a small class, we got the opportunity to have a say in what we wanted to discuss in class. Readings were weekly but not difficult and super interesting and engaging. All of the materials in class were well thought and made me reflect a lot on my Spanish background. My favorite aspect of the class was learning more about formal academic spanish. Papers were the major component of the class and were relatively open ended so they were fun and interesting to write. Presentations are also required but again they were interesting to research and fun to present. 

I took phonetics and phonology to fulfill the linguistics minor and also the science distribution requirement, and I am so glad I did. The content from this class has proven to be super valuable, of course within the realm of linguistics but also beyond. Professor Baird was very accommodating, and willing to meet with me one-on-one to answer questions when I needed more help understanding the material.  

I think the professor is great, exams were take home, and there were 3 essays you had to complete but they weren't difficult. The class was at times quite boring but as long as you participate and stay engaged he's pretty nice about the grading. 