Italian

What will the course Cover?

Reading of articles from newspapers (La Repubblica, Il Corriere della Sera etc.) and magazines (L’Espresso, Panorama, etc.) to highlight current issues of Italian society. Video clips from films and TV programmes will also be used to improve listening skills. Work on fluency will be of paramount importance and will be achieved through a great deal of classroom discussions and other speaking activities (roleplays, short presentations etc.) Students will be encouraged to work individually on those aspects of grammar which still prove difficult for them through personalised homework. At the outset of the course students will be asked to choose some of the topics to be covered during the course so that individual needs can be met.

Who is this course for?

Anyone with an upper intermediate level (A level and above) of Italian who would like to improve their language skills and knowledge of Italy and the Italians.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

Able to talk about everyday topics in Italian with a good degree of fluency and able to read a newspaper article / a short story with the occasional use of a dictionary. If in doubt, come and try a class before you enrol.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

• Read with confidence a variety of Italian texts • Talk about and exchange information with others about the articles read • Feel more confident about their own grammar • Use reference materials to search for vocabulary • Use the internet for further research ‘topics’ • Have a better understanding and appreciation of Italy, Italian culture and the Italian way of life

How is the course organised?

Most lessons will have both textual and visual input. Language work will try to expand and enrich learners’ vocabulary and class discussions and activities will help students achieve greater fluency. Homework will be given every week either as texts to be read or compositions to be written. "

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

An hour or so a week for homework would be the minimum expected but students will be encouraged to explore issues of interest to them (by reading books or articles or using the internet) and make short presentations to the class.

How will my progress be assessed?

First of all by your contributions in class and the written homework done at home. A variety of listening and speaking activities will also benefit your progress and knowledge. At the beginning of the course you will agree with your tutor a number of individual learning objectives against which you can then measure your progress during the course. Record of your work will be kept in your Individual Learning Plan to help record the steps taken towards achieving your goals

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Tutor will advise.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

"No textbook as such as all the articles will be chosen by either tutor or students from current newspapers /magazines / internet sites. Vocabulary book, notebook, ring binder to keep hand-outs would be useful. A good dictionary – the tutor will advise.

What support is available?

"Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Details are available from the guide and from teaching or reception staff. "