IT1L1: Beginners Italian Language

Module code: IT1L1

Module provider: Languages and Cultures; School of Humanities

Credits: 20

Level: Level 1 (Certificate)

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1 / 2

Module convenor: Ms Rita Balestrini, email: r.balestrini@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s):

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

Module(s) excluded: IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE IT1L3 OR TAKE IT1L2 (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 aims to introduce students with no previous knowledge of Italian to the study of Italian language and culture, and to equip them with the necessary linguistic competence and proficiency to undertake a degree in or involving Italian Studies.

The course will provide the necessary basis for the study of Italian. Students who successfully complete this module will have achieved a level of competence in Italian comparable to level A2 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 an understanding of spoken and written Italian on everyday matters and topics of personal interest at an appropriate level
2. Express themselves in speech and writing on everyday matters, especially those relating to their own experience
3.  Recognise and apply basic grammar rules relevant to the study of Italian
4. Produce reflection on their learning processes to independently develop appropriate strategies and relevant skills to ensure linguistic progression

Module content

This is an intensive course, in which students steadily progress from a basic functional use of the language to a more complex oral and written production. They will learn to elicit meaning related to their level of knowledge and ability from a variety of oral and written texts, and to produce simple connected texts that are relevant to their personal experience.

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.

The course will include a Language Skills component, which will allow students to focus on activities that promote and advance their awareness of language structures in general, and on the active exploration of ways of applying such awareness to the learning of Italian language.

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. Students are expected to actively plan, manage and deliver work in teams or pairs. 

Study hours

At least 120 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activities will be delivered in person, with the remaining hours for scheduled and self-scheduled teaching and learning activities delivered either in person or online. You will receive further details about how these hours will be delivered before the start of the module.