Overview

This course intends to consolidate and expand the students' knowledge of grammar and vocabulary through exposure to a variety of texts ranging from newspaper articles to literary extracts, differing in register and style (to include very colloquial and very formal examples). Oral and aural skills will also be emphasised through special classes in which students watch/listen to extracts from films/TV or radio programmes and are encouraged to discuss and analyse their content. Students will also study materials that provide insight into Italian civilisation in the target language.

Textbook: Maria Balì e Luciana Ziglio, Nuovo Espresso 3: libro dello studente e esercizi (livello B1), Alma Edizioni.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -40-49%: Limited knowledge of grammar and vocabulary resulting in a limited ability to translate the prescribed texts, to write reports and to comment on issues relating to Italian culture and society. Limited oral/aural competence.

-good -50-69%: Good knowledge of grammar and vocabulary resulting in a good ability to translate the prescribed texts, to write reports and to comment on issues relating to Italian culture and society. Good oral/aural competence.

-excellent -70+%: Excellent knowledge of grammar and vocabulary resulting in a excellent ability to translate the prescribed texts, to write reports and to comment on issues relating to Italian culture and society. Excellent oral/aural competence.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an ability to translate texts competently, matching style and register to purpose.

• Demonstrate an increased ability in the art of paraphrasing and report writing.

• Demonstrate knowledge of various topics relating to Italian culture and society through the analysis and discussion of given texts.

• Make individual presentations and discuss competently a given topic as part of a team, and demonstrate an ability to comprehend a wide range of audio-visual material.