* Graduated approach to content-based learning. The program is designed in two volumes to transition students from the beginning to the intermediate. Book I includes a graduated approach which introduces students to content-based instruction. By the time they reach semester two, students are working with fully content-based materials. * Effective integration of culture appreciation and language skills. Each chapter focuses on a broad cultural theme and a set of related ideas, effectively integrated with language skills. * Constant recyclying of communicative functions and grammar. * The Mini-confrencia (mini-lectures) offer creative listening comprehension techniques. They teach students how to listen to the lecturing discourse, which predominates in upper-division courses. * Emphasis on reading comprehension: reflection before reading, while reading and after reading and variety of reading genre while emphasizing expository texts. The emphasis on reading is greater in book 2 than in book 1. However book 1 presents a gradual reading difficulty that matches the gradual complexity of the topics presented in successive units. * Strong connection between reading and writing and the emphasis on expository writing. See section Ponlo por escrito. * Integration of grammar and content. Whenever possible, the examples used in grammar explanations and the grammar exercises are linked to the content of the unit. * Opportunities to discuss current issues pertaining to different Hispanic cultures (pre- and post-reading activities and pre-and post mini-lecture activities). * Opportunities to discuss art in an interactive format. (Color y forma sections). * Attention to vocabulary building by including glosses and vocabulary activities before and after a reading. In activities designed to focus on a specific function, students are assisted with limited lists of expressions. Book 1 dedicates a specific section (?Como lo dices) to the practice of functions. * Motivational approach to reading literature. Understanding literature is essential to understanding different cultures, and Mas alla integrates the sustained reading of Laura Freixas'"Final absurdo" throughout the first 5 chapters, and the literary sections in Book II are also thematically integrated within the chapters. Readings are followed by accompanying activities. * Light material and humor. While most intermediate texts can be overwhelmingly serious, Mas alla includes humor through cartoons and activities.