English Language

The use of English as a lingua franca in the cultural heritage context is now essential. We will seek to provide a guide to achieving awareness of your own processes of language learning in improving linguistic and communicative competence. Textual analysis (also through examples of realia chosen from cultural heritage contexts) will be used as practical illustrations of some theoretical aspects. The level of linguistic competence students are expected to attain by the end of the course is B1+ under the Common European Framework for Languages. We will seek to use English as much as possible during classes.

Although this is an “annual” subject, the majority of the teaching will take place in the first semester. Classes will have in essence a lecture format, but participation on the part of students is expected and will be actively encouraged. The calendar for classes will be communicated both in the teaching room, on our DISUM webpages and through the Studium learning platform. We’ll be available immediately before and after classes to answer questions regarding the course and students may also make use of our office hours for this purpose.

In module A we aim to introduce, develop and apply some basic concepts and structures of the English language with the use of practical examples.

In module B we will give some attention to linguistic analysis from the point of view of its use in translation. Here we will be able to contrast English and Italian and improve our skills in translating between the languages, particularly in the direction English–Italian. The texts used will be taken from various publications in the cultural heritage field and we will give attention to the correct use of dictionaries, above all monolingual dictionaries.

Students will be able to attend language instruction classes with native-speaker teachers. News about these language instruction classes will be given at the beginning of the course.

Oral exam: In evaluating students' performance at the exam mastery of content and competences acquired will be considered, together with linguistic accuracy and lexical appropriateness, together with the candidate's ability to discuss.

Two course tests are also envisaged: one relating to Module A, consisting of a test (multiple choice and open questions) aimed at verifying knowledge of the topics dealt with in class up to that moment; another relating to Module B that will translation abilities and levels of translation awareness.

Passing these tests allows students to consider those parts of the course description already satisfied and allows them access to the final exam, consisting of an interview on the remaining parts of the course description and a conversation with the native-speaker instructors. Students who opt not to take part in the course tests will be evaluated in a final oral exam covering all the topics dealt with during classes.

What do you plan to do with your degree in cultural heritage?

Which part of Dallen Timothy’s book on tourism and cultural heritage do you feel is most relevant for you in light of your studies on your degree course?

Why is English language a subject on your degree course?