Degree Course in Intercultural and Interlinguistic Mediation
English 1 (2024-25)

Professor Paola Baseotto

CFU SSD Lessons Practice Language Lab Year
Language
10 ANGL-01/C
60 60 English

Teaching objectives
The course aims to provide theoretical knowledge and applied skills appropriate to Upper-Intermediate level English (level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference). These skills will be taught in a wide ranging context with particular attention to the acquisition of communication skills appropriate to professional life.

Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be users of English at B2 level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference). In particular they will be able to:

• understand the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialisation;
• interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party;
• produce clear, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue discussing the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Entry requirements

The required entry level for the first year of Mediation is B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference. All students are required to take a placement test. Students who have an official certificate of English Language at B2 level or higher, awarded by certifying bodies recognised by MIUR, will be exempted from the placement test.
In case of insufficient language skills (level below B1), students will still be admitted to lessons and the practical course, but by the start of the second semester (14 February 2025) they will have to successfully complete a specific revision and alignment of skills through assisted self-learning activities through the Macmillan English Campus (MEC) e-learning platform.
Based on the results of the placement test, the students will be divided into two groups for the practical course, in order to allow for fruitful use of the strengthening activities.

Course contents
The course will be devoted to the analysis of the morphology, syntax, and vocabulary of Upper Intermediate English (level B2). Particular attention will be given to Business English and the development of oral and written production and comprehension skills. The course will examine the relationship between linguistic structures and the socio-cultural conventions of contemporary English, as well as the specific vocabulary required for the role of linguistic-cultural mediator.
Practical lessons (‘esercitazioni’) are essential elements of the course.

Teaching activity
Face-to-face teaching is integrated with supported independent study through multimedia resources and guided activities.

Teaching activity in detail: a total of 60 hours of face-to-face teaching, consolidation and development of skills through guided independent learning, practice in the classroom (oral interaction and guidance and instruction for written composition), complementary activities carried out via the e-learning platform.

Macmillan English Campus (MEC) e-learning platform: each student will be enabled to use the MEC platform which promotes the alignment of their entry skills and the achievement of the skills expected at the end of the first year. The teachers will give information on the path to complete and the relative timing. This information will be provided in class and via a specific notice on the platform.

Tutoring: optional but highly recommended revision, strengthening and exam preparation activities led by a tutor. These activities will take place in small groups via Teams. Any useful information will be provided in class and via a specific notice on the platform.

Learning Assessment

LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of the first year, knowledge of the English language will be equivalent to B2.
The MEC educational courses mu