IT3L3: Advanced Italian Language I

Module code: IT3L3

Module provider: Languages and Cultures; School of Humanities

Credits: 20

Level: Level 3 (Honours)

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1 / 2

Module convenor: Dr Maria Laura Iasci, email: m.iasci@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s): Before taking this module you must take IT2L2 or have A-Level Italian or equivalent. (Open)

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded: IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE IT3L4 OR TAKE IT3L6 OR TAKE IT3L6C (Compulsory)

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2024/5

Available to visiting students: Yes

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 21 May 2024

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This module is aimed at students who in Part 2 have successfully completed IT2L2 Intermediate Italian Language and who progress from Part 2 to Part 3 without the Year Abroad. 

Following on from Part 2 courses, this module aims to consolidate and further develop students’ competence in spoken and written Italian language; and to equip them with the linguistic skills needed for the period they are to spend in a Italian-speaking country in the Year Abroad. 

This module also aims to develop the language skills of Part 3 students who have already achieved A Level in Italian or equivalent. Students with an excellent AS Level qualification in Italian or equivalent may also be considered for this module. 

Students who successfully complete this module will have achieved a level of competence in Italian comparable to level B1.2 / B2.1 of the Common European Framework of Reference. 

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a good understanding of spoken and written Italian in a variety of different registers, as well as show familiarity with an appropriate range of Italian vocabulary and an ability to use it.
2. Express themselves clearly and fluently in spoken and written Italian in both every day and more formal situations, especially those relating to their own experience.
3. Demonstrate a good understanding and appropriate use of relevant grammatical rules and apply this knowledge in their understanding and use of Italian language.
4. Actively reflect on their learning processes and preferences to independently develop appropriate strategies and relevant skills to ensure linguistic progression.

Module content

The course will focus on a variety of language exercises that will introduce students in the exploration and production of written and oral texts representing a range of genres and registers.  

Classes will provide students with regular practice in free and guided writing in Italian, and in presenting and discussing in the foreign language. Classes will also offer the opportunity for students to explicitly analyse grammatical and syntactical features in Italian. 

During the course, students will make good use of appropriate reference materials (e.g. dictionaries; online resources, self-study tools, etc.) and will develop an awareness of current issues in Italian speaking countries through the use of contemporary material. 

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

A variety of methods and approaches are employed to facilitate effective language learning. Gradual but fast progression and in-depth study are ensured through guided work, both in and outside of class, with the support of teacher-led activities and tasks, a wide range of authentic and teacher-produced learning material, and a set textbook. Student-led activities are actively promoted and consistent use of the resources available in the library is strongly encouraged. The module will use a variety of strategies for teaching and learning, involving a mixture of group-work, class discussion and analysis, and independent work between sessions. 

Study hours

At least 60 hours of scheduled teaching and learning act