Welcome! Get ready to explore the fascinating world of commodities and their impact on the economies, cultures, and daily lives of Spanish-speaking countries. In this course, we will dive into the global trade of essential products, uncovering their history, cultural connections and economic significance.
Together we will learn Spanish while we explore the journey of 8 key commodities largely produced in hispanic countries.: gold, oil, lithium, soy, olive oil, beef, bananas, and coffee. This topic is incredibly dynamic, evolving every day with new developments that impact culture and society, geopolitics, and the environment. Through discussions, case studies, movies and engaging activities, we will connect history with current events and challenge ourselves to think critically about global markets and our own roles as consumers and future leaders in an interconnected world.
Unit 1: Precious minerals: Gold and lithium
Unit 2: Energies That Move the World: Oil and Soy
Unit 3: From Farm to Table – Olive Oil and Beef
Unit 4: Traveling Fruits – Bananas and Coffee
Student course pack (available on Canvas Files).
Additional readings, articles, and case studies provided in class.
Consuelo Digon
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