A single-volume intermediate Spanish program, Al corriente places readings at the core of each chapter. Recent research has shown that reading is particularly effective for building language skills. The readings-both literary and contemporary authentic-serve as the basis for each of the chapter’s vocabulary development, grammar, and many of the communicative activities. The real-life materials are interesting and motivating to students. Reading strategies help students understand the most important aspects of the readings. A special internet-integrated section of each chapter helps students develop their web research skills and connect with the Spanish-speaking world. Pair and group activities, integrated with the grammar sections, encourage meaningful communication.