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 IT2L4 Advanced Italian Language II IT3L6 Advanced Italian Language III IT3LMB Italian Language for Management & Business
Current from: 2023/4

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

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module is intended for beginners with little or no knowledge of Italian. On successful completion of the module students will have achieved CEF (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) Level A1/A1+.

This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the Italian language, concentrating on its communicative use in everyday situations. It will develop the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. 

This module is taught at level 4 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. The University of Reading allows students from any year to take this module. At this level of study, students identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address problems that are well defined, but complex and non-routine. In language learning this may entail:?? 

• practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, in order to communicate within defined situations;? 


• acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary;?? 


• developing strategies for learning and independent learning skills, thus exercising autonomy and judgement;?? 


• developing tools in order to be able to respond to unexpected occurrences;? 


• gaining 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 to enable students to: 

• communicate at survival level in typical situations met by visitors when travelling in Italian-speaking countries; 


• develop a competence in basic Italian grammar and vocabulary in order to communicate and understand at survival level; 


• develop an understanding of the nature of language and language learning; 


• gain an insight into aspects of everyday life in Italy;


• acquire a basic awareness of interculturality principles and practices.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the?module students will be able to:? 

• communicate in Italian by speaking at a simple survival 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;? 


• read and understand simple texts on a variety of everyday topics including obtaining specific details from signs, notices, short texts, etc.;? 


• use a range of basic Italian vocabulary and acquire skills in using sources of vocabulary;? 


• understand simple passages, conversations and announcements when spoken by sympathetic native- and non-native speakers of Italian;? 


• recognise and apply?basic grammatical structures in both speaking and writing.? 


• recognise and apply basic principles of intercultural awareness in everyday social interactions;


• use self-reflection, develop awareness and strategies to work independently while maintaining the level of interest and motivation for the language.

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.

Global context:

IWLP language modules provide students with opportunities for intercultural learning, increased intercultural awareness and an appreciation of diversity which enable learners to make connections between their immediate context and the global context.

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).

The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.

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:

Work which provides opportunities to improve performance (e.g. through feedback provided) but which does not necessarily always contribute towards the overall module mark. 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: Students will be required to purchase the course book (approx.. £30). 


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: 30 March 2023