FINN 101 A: First Year Finnish 1

Autumn 2026
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Meeting:
MTWThF 9:30am - 10:20am
SLN:
15314
Section Type:
Lecture
Course Comments:
FIRST IN SEQUENCE OF 3 COURSES BEGINNING IN FALL QUARTER; FOR STUDENTS IN THE COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES, THE 101-102-103 SEQUENCE FULFILLS EITHER FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT OR COUNTS AS VLPA CREDITS. NO AUDITORS.
Syllabus Description (from Canvas):

Lämpimästi tervetuloa kurssille! Welcome to Finnish 101!

Want to discover a language that makes you special and helps you see the world differently? FINN 101 is designed for anyone interested in learning Finnish. Are you curious about the world's happiest country? Do you have a family connection? Are you a linguistics student fulfilling your non-Indo-European language requirement? There are many great reasons to study Finnish!  Some say Finnish is tough, but all kinds of students have been studying Finnish successfully for 30 years at UW. In this course, we dive straight into the world of Finnish using intensive, fun, and communicative language-learning methods. 

If you're curious, check out our Tik Tok channel: @finntok_uw

What you will learn:

  • Real-life skills: How to introduce yourself, share basic information, and ask questions.
  • All areas of language: Active practice in speaking, listening, reading, and writing (with Finnish used as the main language of instruction as much as possible).
  • Culture & Lifestyle: What does the famous Finnish “sisu” really mean? Why are Finns so happy? How can you experience Finnish culture right here in Seattle? 

The class will meet daily during fall quarter. There is about 30 min to 1 hr. of homework per meeting, about average for a language class. We use all kinds of teaching material, a textbook, as well as video, music, recordings, as much authentic as possible. There are also lots of great opportunities to practice Finnish and get acquainted with other students outside of class, including a coffee hour and field trips. 

No prior knowledge needed—just bring your curiosity! 
Catalog Description:
Fundamentals of oral and written Finnish, including introductory study of literature, film, and other authentic texts. First in a sequence of three. Maximum 15 credits allowed between FINN 101; FINN 102; FINN 103; and FINN 150. Offered: A.
GE Requirements Met:
Arts and Humanities (A&H)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
August 1, 2026 - 5:33 am