Module manager: Anne Buckley
Email: a.buckley@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
German and English language skills to at least CEFR A2.
GERM2080 and GERM2083
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module combines interdisciplinary theoretical insights into German-language culture with practical experience in translation. Students will explore the diverse linguistic landscapes of German-speaking countries—primarily Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy (South Tyrol)—investigating the complexities of dialectal variation, language identity, and cultural diversity. The module is designed to develop students’ research skills and critical thinking, as well as their sensitivity to nuance in German and their mastery of the art of translation. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
The module aims to develop students’ understanding of German-speaking cultures and to explore the relationship between language and society by examining theoretical ideas from German Studies, Sociolinguistics and Cultural Studies. Students will investigate how language reflects and shapes social structures, identities, and ideologies using a range of materials including academic sources, music, social media posts and literature. A practical translation component will run throughout the module: here, students will utilise their understanding of the concepts studied to refine their translation skills.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
LO1. Explain the transnational and intercultural status of the German language and the countries where it is spoken.
LO2. Identify and analyse key concepts and debates in sociolinguistics, cultural studies and translation studies, particularly in relation to use of language in the German-speaking context.
LO3. Apply f theoretical concepts to the practical task of translation by adapting the structures and registers of the target language and by analysing culturally specific elements in the source text
LO4. Analyse information from a variety of sources, in order to provide answers or solutions
LO5. Develop a well-structured argument using appropriate terminology and adhering to the principles of academic integrity
LO6 Communicate information and ideas effectively
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 1 | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Seminars | 19 | 1.5 | 28.5 |
| Private study hours | 171 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 29 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
• Seminar discussions
• Peer and tutor feedback on translation work
• A piece of formative written work
• Individual consultation with module tutor when preparing for essay task
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Essay | 70 |
| Coursework | Group Project | 30 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team