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Linguistics Language Program (LLP) LLP
  1. Linguistics Language Program (LLP)
  2. Languages
  3. Independent Language Study (LIDS 19, LIFR/LIGM 11)

Independent Language Study

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LIDS 19

Linguistics Directed Study - Language (LIDS) 19 is a course that allows students to learn basic conversation in one of over 65 languages including Cantonese, Arabic, Swahili, Hindi, Vietnamese and Albanian. Under the supervision of a linguist, students work independently using self-instructional materials. The focus of LIDS 19 is on conversation - not grammar, reading or writing. All materials and/or access to materials are provided. LIDS 19 does not satisfy major or college language requirements.

LIFR 11 and LIGM 11: Elementary French and German Reading

A self-instructional program designed to prepare graduate students to meet reading requirements in French or German. Students learn to read in the language using self-instructional materials.

Why take a directed-study course?

Students choose to study a language independently for various reasons: to prepare for foreign travel, to communicate with family or friends, to satisfy their curiosity, or to have the opportunity to study on their own schedule.

Enrollment Information

Registration takes place in-person during Weeks 1 and 2 of each quarter in the Language Lab. Enrollment numbers are limited and seats are given on a first come, first served basis.

Who may take the course?

You may take the course only if you have no previous exposure to the language you plan to study.

Having exposure to the language includes:

  • If you speak the language at home
  • If you have already taken a course in the language
  • If you lived in an area where the language is the primary language spoken for a significant amount of time (e.g. If you would like to take Cantonese but lived in Hong Kong)

What languages are available?

Over 65 languages are available. View a list of the languages and syllabi.

What is the course content like?

Depending on the language, the study materials provided for this self-paced curriculum is provided by one or more of the following sources:

The focus of LIDS 19 is on conversation - not grammar, reading or writing. All materials and/or access to materials are provided.

What is the course schedule?

LIDS 19 is a self-paced course and students are recommended to spend 6-12 hours studying each week. Depending on the language selected, the some course materials may only be available at the Language Lab.

Course Schedule

  • Weeks 1-2: Registration in AP&M 3302E (inside the Language Lab)
  • Week 3: Practice Test (15 min, by appointment)
  • Weeks 5-6: Midterm Exam (30 min, by appointment)
  • Finals Week: Final Exam (30 min, by appointment)

How is the course graded?

The program supervisor administers three exams:

  1. Practice Test (Week 3, by appointment)
  2. Midterm (Weeks 5 and 6, by appointment)
  3. Final (Finals Week, by appointment)

All exams are oral and use the material that has been assigned for study.

How many units of credit can I earn?

LIDS 19 courses may be taken for 2 or 4 units of credit, depending on the language.

  • 2 units: It is suggested that you spend 6 hours per week studying
  • 4 units: It is suggested that you spend 12 hours each week studying

LIDS 19 courses do not satisfy college language requirements.

How do I register?

You must enroll in person during registration hours at the Language Lab during Weeks 1 and 2 of each quarter. Enrollment numbers are limited and registration is first-come, first-served.

For more registration hours and how to sign up, please see the enrollment information document.

More Information

For general inquiries, email lids-19-g@ucsd.edu.

Language Lab Information

  • Location: AP&M 3432A
  • Hours: Weekdays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.