LA1PI1-IWLP Italian 1

Module Provider: Languages and Cultures
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: LA1PI2 IWLP Italian 2 LA1PI3 IWLP Italian 3 IT1L1 Beginners Italian Language IT1L2 Intermediate Italian Language IT1L3 Advanced Italian Language I IT2L2 Intermediate Italian Language IT2L4 Advanced Italian Language II IT3L6 Advanced Italian Language III
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Mr Ugo Marsili
Email: u.marsili@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is intended for students with no previous knowledge of the Italian language.

This module aims at enabling students to achieve a CEFR A1/A2 level within a defined range of topics.

This module is taught at level 4 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Reading University allows students from any year to take this module. Students will identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address problems that are well defined but complex and non- routine. In language learning this means acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, developing strategies for learning and practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, in order to communicate within defined situations while developing tools to enable students to respond to unexpected occurrences. Students will exercise autonomy and judgement by developing independent learning skills. They will gain understanding of different perspectives and cultural differences in approaching a variety of situations.

Support is given and adjustments are made for students with disabilities. However, IWLP language modules are communicative in nature and students are required to work in small groups.  Also, students should be aware that spelling, grammar and sentence structure are assessed. In this respect the IWLP assessment is exempted from the University’s requirement to take specific learning difficulties into account when marking.  For queries, contact iwlp@reading.ac.uk.

Aims:

The module aims at providing students with: 

• the ability to communicate in Italian at a survival level 


• a competence in basic Italian grammar and vocabulary in order to communicate at a?survival level 


• an insight into aspects of society and everyday life in Italy and in Italian-speaking communities

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module students will be able to: 

• Communicate in Italian orally at a basic level about a selection of defined everyday topics; 


• Communicate in Italian in writing about a selection of defined everyday topics and within a defined range of genres; 


• Understand sympathetic native-speakers of Italian in the most frequently-occurring social functions;? 


• Read simple written texts on familiar topics 


• Recognise and apply aspects of basic Italian grammar and structures when speaking and writing about familiar, everyday matters and in order to understand speakers and texts; 


• Possess and control a selection of basic Italian vocabulary in order to understand speakers and texts and communicate at a simple survival level;


• Develop their intercultural competence;


• Develop their independent language learning skil ls.

Additional outcomes:

At the end of the module students will have: 

• developed their ability to work in a team and to a deadline 


• strengthened their communication skills 


• developed their ability to work in a team and to a deadline 


• strengthened their communication skills 


• increased their ability to research a topic independently and to evaluate sources of information  


• increased their ability to complete a project according to a brief  


• stimulated their creativity 

Outline content:
The module will introduce the language and communicative situations of selected of areas of life relevant to visiting Italy: personal information, food, accommodation, travel, shopping, etc. A solid linguistic foundation will be ensured by the study of grammar and vocabulary, always presented in context in an accessible and engaging way.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Teaching methods are based on interactive language development tasks, such as group work and role playing, and include the study of short texts, oral development work and listening comprehension exercises. Teaching methods are based on interactive language development tasks, such as group work and role playing, and include the study of short texts, oral development work and listening comprehension exercises. Language focus sessions and guided independent learning activities play also an impor tant part. Learning activities are supported by a variety of digital and printed media. The module is taught as far as possible in the target language. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Final Written exam (Reading and Writing) – 40% (2 hours)

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Autumn Term Week 11: Multi-part portfolio 15%

Spring Week 11: Multi-part portfolio 15% 

Summer Week 2: Paired oral exam 30% (maximum 30 minutes per pair) 

Formative assessment methods:

In order to consolidate and develop their language learning, students are encouraged to complete regular tasks – in class and outside – on which feedback is provided. Additional feedback, with opportunity for self-reflection and feedforward is provided in week 11 of the Autumn term, through tests and other tasks to be included in the Portfolio?? 

Penalties for late submission:

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40% overall for UG students, 50% overall for PGT students.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit in August/September examinations period on basis of examination only (relative percentages: oral examination 40%, written paper 60%.)

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books: Textbook under review


2. Specialist equipment or materials: None


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: None 


4. Printing and binding: None


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification: None


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence: None

Last updated: 27 April 2021