ITALIAN 10D COURSE INFORMATION

COURSE OBJECTIVES AND METHOD 

            The main objective of this course is to give the students experience in using the Italian language in practical situations.  Whereas the grammar series (Ital. 1A, 1B, 2A, 2b, 3A, 3B, 4A and 4B) emphasizes the mastery of a natural sequence of grammar concepts and its practical application, the conversation series (Ital. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D) centers around certain functions or situations and all the necessary linguistic elements required for the student to successfully maneuver that particular “task”.  These two series were meant to be taken together, and basically cover the same grammatical ground, though with different intensity and vocabulary.  Ideally, a student would enroll in Ital. 2B and 10D simultaneously and in so doing attain twice the practice and two different approaches to mastering the same material.  As much time as possible will be dedicated to students practicing the language, since I believe that students learn by “doing”.  That practice, combined with diligent home study and daily exposure to the language, will produce good results and build confidence for travel or whatever dealings with the Italian community that s/he envisions.

            The principal role of the instructor will be to suggest activities which arouse enthusiasm in the students, and to create a supportive, open, and relaxed environment which encourages interaction (games, problem solving activities projects, expression of opinions, and discussions).  The students will have the satisfaction of having communicated effectively with their growing knowledge of Italian.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS 

F. Merlonghi & F. Merlonghi, Oggi in Italia!    Seventh Edition 2002  (hardcover textbook)

F. Merlonghi & F. Merlonghi, Oggi in Italia Workbook/Laboratory Manual,  Seventh Edition 2002  

GRADING POLICY 

Final grades will be calculated based on the following criteria:

• attendance and class participation   40%

• homework and assignments 20%

• midterm exam     20%

• final exam      20% 

Final course grades will be determined on the following scale:  90-100% = A; 80-89% = B; 70-79% = C; 60-69% = D; <60% = F.

ATTENDANCE AND CLASS PARTICIPATION 

Prompt attendance is required 100%.  The attendance portion of your grade will reflect the percentage of the total class hours you attend.  Active attendance will constitute 40% of your grade.  I realize that, for many of you, these precious class hours will be your only chance to practice the language.   We will spend as much class time as possible in oral practice:  group work, role plays, oral problem solving and discussions.   Therefore, it is essential that you come to class ready to participate and as free as possible from the inhibitions that accompany the humbling experience of communicating at an elementary level.  Hopefully we will laugh and learn from everyone’s mistakes. 

HOMEWORK AND WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS 

You will be responsible for weekly homework, one midterm exam and a final exam on the dates indicated in the syllabus.   Use the answer key provided to correct your homework assignments before handing them in.  Use a pen or pencil with a contrasting color to make corrections.  Homework will only be collected on the day it is due.  No late written assignments will be accepted for credit.  The two exams will be oral presentations, and group role play presentations.

STUDY TIPS 

Acquiring a language is much like learning a musical instrument or fitness training.  Consistency is the key.  Divide your study week into different phases and be consistent from week to week about completing these phases.  (Some ideas:   a day for reading vocabulary and grammar, two days for homework exercises, a day for correcting, a day for review of previous chapters, a day for using the material acquired to say creative things that are relevant to your own lives)  Find a system that works for you, since only you know what it takes for you to learn the material.  Ongoing study might include listening to the tapes any chance you get, memorizing the dialogues in the book until your delivery is expressive and natural, listening to and deciphering the lyrics of opera or popular song, seeing Italian films or looking through magazines and newspapers.  Listening to the Italian news on channel 26 each day at 5:30 p.m. is challenging, but might attune your ear to the sound of the language.  Your opportunities to acquire proficiency are limited only by your lack of time or creativity!  I am always available for suggestions. 

LANGUAGE LABORATORY

Rosenberg Library/Resource Center, Rm. 205, Phelan Campus; tel.  452-5555

Hours:  Mon.-Thurs.: 8:00 a.m.-8:45 p.m.; Friday:  8:00 a.m.-4:45 p.m.;   Sat.:9 a.m.-2:45 p.m.  Two hours per week are required either in the language lab or at home. 

INSTRUCTOR:  Carole Cadoppi