Intermediate Italian I

This intermediate Italian course aims at improving the four basic language skills (reading, speaking, writing and understanding) through a direct exposition to Italian language and culture. After reviewing basic grammar and vocabulary, students will be steadily exposed to new and more complex grammar and communicative structures in order to more accurately and expressively interact with the host community.

The course combines several integrated approaches aimed at developing students' skills. Classroom time is devoted mainly to speaking and practicing Italian through a combination of group-based and individual activities, focusing on grammatical structures, language functions and vocabulary. Sessions also address a range of contemporary cultural themes using newspaper articles, advertising material and short film clips. In addition, on-site activities, regular practice and conversation exchanges with peers and locals will give students the opportunity to rapidly implement in real local-community situations their linguistic advances and newly acquired intercultural competences.

Extra-curricular activities, such as public lectures or film nights organized by various local institutions, will be announced at the start of the semester to foster the knowledge of Italy and the Italians, and develop sensitivity towards cultural differences.

This course is offered as a 3 or 4 credit course. Students can see the difference between the two offerings in the forms of assessment.