Quechua Course Offerings in Spring 2025
Quechua, the language of the Inca Empire, remains the most widely spoken Indigenous language in the Americas, with approximately 10 and 13 million across the Andes. At the University of Pennsylvania, the Quechua program emphasizes language acquisition and cultural immersion through an interactive, activity-based approach.
QUEC-0200 Elementary Quechua and Andean Culture II
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 5:15 PM – 6:44 PM ET
Course Description
This introductory course is designed for students with little or no prior knowledge of Quechua. The curriculum focuses on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through interactive activities. Students will engage in pair, small-group, and whole-class exercises to enhance their communication abilities. In addition, the course introduces Andean culture, enriching students’ understanding of Indigenous traditions, customs, and worldviews.
Students will be evaluated on their ability to use Quechua in written and oral tasks, as well as their understanding of the language and culture. Lectures will be conducted in Quechua, English and Spanish.
QUEC-0400 Intermediate Quechua and Andean Culture II
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM ET
Course Description
This continuation of Intermediate Quechua I is designed for students who have already developed foundational skills in the language. The course strengthens listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities while deepening students’ engagement with Andean cultural traditions.
Through a communicative approach, students will:
Expand their vocabulary and grammar skills for more advanced conversations.
Read and analyze texts in Quechua to enhance comprehension.
Engage in discussions on Andean history, traditions, and contemporary issues.
Students will be evaluated based on their mastery of the four language skills and their ability to apply prior knowledge in communicative and cultural contexts. Lectures will be conducted in Quechua, English and Spanish.
How to Enroll
For assistance with enrollment or any questions, please contact Lada Vassilieva, Administrative Director of the Penn Language Center: vassilie@sas.upenn.edu