Intercultural and Linguistic Mediation

MARY LOUISE WARDLE

The course involves the acquisition of basic skills related to the history and geography of the English language, with particular reference to the phonological problems, to the Acquisition of a good competence in reading and comprehension of written texts; acquisition of a satisfying speaking competence (on specialized arguments). Attaining an intermediate level in linguistic abilities.

The three-year program is designed with the ultimate objective of ensuring a solid command of both written and spoken English, as well as a thorough understanding of linguistic methodologies and theories, including those pertaining to the field of translation (studied in the third year).

KNOWLEDGE AND APPLIED COMPREHENSION SKILLS
The first-year module, in conjunction with the language practice sessions (lettorato), provides the theoretical and metalinguistic foundations of the discipline, with the aim of fostering the ability to apply, in concrete contexts of mediation between private individuals and/or institutions, the linguistic and translational knowledge and competencies acquired. This includes the appropriate use of digital communication tools and information technology where required.

INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT
The module initiates the development of the capacity to formulate independent and well-reasoned judgments concerning both academic and practical issues related to the linguistic and intercultural domain.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS
In collaboration with the language practice sessions, this lecturer-led module aims to cultivate the ability to effectively and appropriately convey, in both written and spoken English, knowledge and opinions pertinent to the student’s primary fields of study, particularly within intercultural mediation contexts.

LEARNING SKILLS
The module, as an integral part of the broader language curriculum, is intended to enhance the student’s capacity for autonomous learning. Building on acquired methodological tools and independent critical thinking, it supports the advancement and/or deepening of specialized knowledge within the subject.

Students need to have passed the selection process to study English as one of their main languages

A Common Language
The module will provide the tools to analyze the English language in its various forms, including its role as a lingua franca (ELF), examining the effects of globalization and multiple digital communication systems.
Through both diachronic and synchronic approaches, the course will explore how English has become a global language, with particular focus on British and American varieties of English.
The concept of variation (based on social class, geographic origin, age, gender, etc.) will be addressed, with emphasis on different text types and linguistic contexts.
The ultimate goal is to develop a metalinguistic discourse in English.

The module will be taught entirely in English.

To earn 12 credits (CFU), students must also attend and/or pass the 'lettorato' (written and oral components).

Yule, George The Study of Language (preferably the 7th edition), Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2020.

One lesson a week all year

Strongly recommended

The exam will be a written exam (2 hours - you can use dictionaries - both mono- and bilingual). You will be given six questions and will have to answer three - so you don't need to have attended all the lessons. These questions require answers of c. one paragraph, 5-6 lines and will test content.

There will be one final compulsory question, of a more analytical nature, where you will be given a text and asked to identify any linguistic features studied during the year. Some guidelines will be provided in the question. This question is worth half the marks of the whole paper and should be written as an essay (with introduction, main body and conclusion).

The exam will be a written exam (2 hours - you can use dictionaries - both mono- and bilingual). You will be given six questions and will have to answer three - so you don't need to have attended all the lessons. These questions require answers of c. one paragraph, 5-6 lines and will test content.

There will be one final compulsory question, of a more analytical nature, where you will be given a text and asked to identify any linguistic features studied during the year. Some guidelines will be provided in the question. This question is worth half the marks of the whole paper and should be written as an essay (with introduction, main body and conclusion).

• course overview and conclusions