Module manager: Laura Lucia Rossi
Email: L.L.Rossi@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
Satisfactory completion of ITAL2011/2015/2016/2017 or equivalent.
This module is approved as a discovery module
This module aims to develop students’ language skills to an advanced level, approaching the communicative competence of and advanced speaker(C1-C2 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Language). Students will explore the details of Italian language through authentic sources and topics regarding Italian current affairs, while practicing oral and written skills in a range of situations. Students wishing to enrol on this module as a discovery module must contact the module manager. 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
• further consolidate students’ Italian language in all the four abilities (speaking, listening, reading and writing) to an advanced level (corresponding to the C1-C2 levels of the CEFRL)
• develop a nuanced grasp of advanced Italian grammar, vocabulary, structures and registers (including regional variation) focusing on language use in context
• build familiarity with different language-specific textual types and genres
• promote students’ awareness of their language level
• engage students with current affairs and discourses in Italy and enable them to participate in those discourses, while consolidating intercultural awareness
At the end of this module students should be able to
1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of complex grammatical and syntactical structures in Italian;
2. comprehend and communicate fluently complex ideas in spoken Italian, demonstrating the ability to interact in spontaneous conversations and debates;
3. understand and communicate appropriately complex ideas in written Italian, demonstrating knowledge of subject-specific vocabulary;
4. demonstrate appreciation of nuances of style and register both in oral and written communication;
5. demonstrate linguistic awareness and intercultural competence;
6. demonstrate knowledge of current discourses in Italy and reflect critically on relevant viewpoints and arguments
Tutors will use authentic materials and sources, which include different textual types and media. Topics will address Italian current affairs and discourses, including, but not limited to,culture, society, media, migration, and gender.
Oral classes will develop students’ ability to comprehend authentic sources and express themselves clearly and cogently on matters requiring an in-depth knowledge of Italian at an advanced level. They will also enhance students’ presentation skills.
Written classes will focus on reading and writing different types and genres of texts, focusing on the different demands of specialised forms of communication.
In both oral and written classes different media and code-switching activities (e.g., activities which require a written output in reaction to an audio-visual input, and vice versa) will be used with the twofold aim of fostering inclusivity by accommodating different learning styles and needs, and of promoting a holistic view of language use in context.
In both types of classes, students will be encouraged to reflect on language uses in context, by isolating and analysing grammatical nuances and linguistic phenomena with the support and guidance of tutors .
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workshop | 21 | 1 | 21 |
| Seminar | 40 | 1 | 40 |
| Private study hours | 139 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 61 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
- Preparation for and follow-up after each class
- Preparation for assessment.
- one monitoring assignment with individual feedback for each semester
- regular written homework, either handed in for individual feedback or discussed in class
- continuous feedback on in-class oral performances/activities
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Portfolio | Includes both written and oral activities | 40 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 40 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 30 |
| Practical Exam / OSCE | 0.0 Hrs 15 Mins | 30 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 60 | |
Practical exam - oral language exam
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 25/04/2025
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