IT2L4-Advanced Italian Language II

Module Provider: Languages and Cultures
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites: IT1L3 Advanced Italian Language I or IT1L2 Intermediate Italian Language
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: IT2L2 Intermediate Italian Language and IT2L3 Advanced Italian Language I
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Chiara Ciarlo
Email: c.ciarlo@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is aimed at students who in Part 1 have successfully completed IT1L3 Advanced Italian Language I or IT1L2 Intermediate Italian Language. The course will build on the work done in the core language module at Part 1 and provide students with the necessary linguistic competence and proficiency for the Year Abroad. Students who successfully complete this module will have achieved level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). 

Aims:

Following on from Part 1 courses, this module aims to consolidate and further develop students’ competence in spoken and written Italian; and to equip them with the linguistic skills needed either for the period they are to spend in Italy in the Year Abroad or for progression to Part 3 (3-year programme only).  

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding and accurate use of Italian grammar and syntax;


• Demonstrate an understanding of both written and spoken Italian, in a variety of registers and styles, ranging from colloquial to academic;


• Express themselves clearly and fluently in both written and spoken Italian in a wide range of contexts;


• Show familiarity with a wide range of Italian vocabulary and an ability to use it appropriately.

Additional outcomes:

This module aims to enable students to

• Actively reflect on their learning processes so as to independently strengthen appropriate strategies and relevant skills to ensure linguistic progression;


• Make good use of appropriate reference materials (e.g. dictionaries; online resources; self-study tools, etc.)


• Practice and develop reading, analytical and interpretative skills in relation to written Italian;


• Expand their awareness of current issues in Italy  through the use of contemporary material, and enhance their ability to use web-based material.

Outline content:

The course will focus on a variety of language exercises that will involve students in the exploration and production of written and oral texts representing a wide range of genres and registers. 



Classes will provide students with regular practice in free and guided writing in Italian, and in presenting, discussing and debating in the foreign language. Classes will also offer the opportunity for students to explicitly analyse grammatical and syntactical featuresin Italian. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module will use a variety of strategies for teaching and learning, involving a mixture of group-work, class discussion and analysis, and independent work between sessions. Students will complete regular exercises as homework and will also do a variety of exercises in class.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	28	28	4
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (directed)	27	25	4
Advance preparation for classes	15	15	4
Preparation for seminars	10	10
Completion of formative assessment tasks	2	2
Revision and preparation	2	2
Group study tasks	10	12
Total hours by term	94	94	12
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Oral assessment and presentation	25
Practical skills assessment	75

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students will take an oral exam worth 25% of the final mark for this module. 

Progression of language practical skills and competence will be assessed over three terms through class tests and/or coursework projects. Students’ continuous assessment work is worth 75% of the module mark.

Students should normally expect to complete tests for this module in person.

Formative assessment methods:
Feedback will be given on assignments and there will be opportunity for class-based discussion.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Reassessment, which will be via a 2-hour written test, in August, in the event of failure in this module and of failure in Part 2 as a whole, or (for compulsory modules only) of failure to qualify in Part 2. Continuous assessment and/or coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books: Information provided in the module reading list.


2. Specialist equipment or materials: 


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 


4. Printing and binding: 


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification: 


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 22 September 2022