Intermediate Tagalog: Developing Cultural Awareness through Language

Intermediate Tagalog is a pioneering language text that gives students a grasp of the social rules of the language as well as the linguistic rules. Designed for students who have learned the basic skills and mastered a vocabulary of frequently used words, Intermediate Tagalog goes beyond language learning to genuine communication.

The lessons use culture-loaded exchanges as well as everyday conversation to give insight into Filipino thought and behavior. For example. the student learns not to acknowledge a compliment with the standard American “thank you,” but rather to downgrade what is being complimented and then to return the compliment. Each dialog is followed by cultural notes that supply possible alternate responses as well as offer comparisons with the way a similar conversation might take place between Americans.

For Filipino-Americans who want to learn about their cultural heritage and for Americans who want to learn about Filipinos, Intermediate Tagalog explores value concepts while developing linguistic and sociolinguistic skills. Written in a clear and readable style, this book is a significant contribution to the teaching of Tagalog and Filipino culture.

• Teresita V. Ramos, Author

• Rosalina Morales Goulet, Author