Italian

What will the course Cover?

A selection of chapters from Passeggiate Italiane (livello intermedio) will form the backbone of this course. However, more topical issues of interest will also be covered through the reading of newspaper or magazine articles with ensuing class discussions. Students will be encouraged to work individually on those aspects of grammar which still prove difficult for them through personalized 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 who already has an intermediate level in Italian (equivalent to GCSE Level 2 and above) & 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 some degree of fluency and able to read a newspaper article / a short story with the help 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?

Every lesson you are given different tasks so that progress can be assessed. 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?

Italian Upper Intermediate Stage 3

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

Passeggiate Italiane (livello intermedio) by Paola Marmini and Giosi Vicentini. Bonacci Editore. ISBN88-7573-340-6 There is no need to buy the book straight away as the tutor will distribute photocopies of the relevant chapters. Vocabulary book, notebook, ring binder to keep handouts would be useful. A good dictionary – the tutor will advise.

What support is available?

We have 3 main ways of supporting learners.We have 3 main ways of supporting learners. a. Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. b. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. If you have a disability and feel you need support to get the best from your course you can contact Sean Buckley (sean.buckley@lbhf.gov.uk) to have a confidential discussion on how best we can support your learning. c. The Learner Support Fund is a discretionary scheme, funded by the Skills Funding Agency, to assist learners who may be experiencing difficulties in paying for essential equipment/materials, travel costs, childcare, registration fees and other necessary expenses. Details of all available support and how to access it can be found on our website (hfals.ac.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff. We have 3 main ways of supporting learners. a. Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. b. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. If you have a disability and feel you need support to get the best from your course you can contact Sean Buckley (sean.buckley@lbhf.gov.uk) to have a confidential discussion on how best we can support your learning. c. The Learner Support Fund is a discretionary scheme, funded by the Skills Funding Agency, to assist learners who may be experiencing difficulties in paying for essential equipment/materials, travel costs, childcare, registration fees and other necessary expenses. Details of all available support and how to access it can be found on our website (hfals.ac.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff. We have 3 main ways of supporti