Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2008-2009 (archived)

Module SPAN2061: CATALAN (BEGINNERS)

Department: Modern Language and Cultures (Spanish)

SPAN2061: CATALAN (BEGINNERS)

Type Open Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2008/09 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Pass at A-Level in a European Language or equivalent qualification, or an equivalent qualification to the satisfaction of the Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Corequisites

  • See Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • To provide an introduction to the language and culture of the Catalan-speaking parts of Spain.

Content

  • This module will offer an introduction to the Catalan language and the culture associated with it.
  • The emphasis will be on language acquisition, using material available from Catalonia, including video material.
  • The module will also include study of a collection of short stories and their cultural context.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of this module students will have gained:
  • a thorough understanding of the key grammatical structures of modern Catalan and will be able to generate them in spontaneous speech and in writing,
  • a grounding in the use of different linguistic registers, and will be able to demonstrate good comprehension of short texts in Catalan.
  • In addition, students will be conversant with basic concepts in the history and culture of Catalonia and will be able to appreciate the historical context in which its identity was formed.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key Skills:

      Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

      • There will be two weekly language classes. Classes will be given in English and Catalan. Students are required to attend all classes, and are expected to prepare themselves for them and participate actively in discussions.

      Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

      Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
      Language Practicals 42 2 per week 1 hour 42 ■
      Preparation and Reading 158
      Total SLAT hours 200

      Summative Assessment

      Component: Written Examination Component Weighting: 25%
      Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
      Written Examination 1 hour 100% Yes
      Component: Listening Comprehension Component Weighting: 25%
      Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
      Listening Comprehension 1 hour 100% Yes
      Component: Oral Examination Component Weighting: 25%
      Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
      Oral Examination 15 minutes 100% Yes
      Component: Summative Essay Component Weighting: 25%
      Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
      Summative Essay 750 words 100% Yes

      Formative Assessment:

      Weekly language assignments; 1 essay (750 words) in Catalan.

      ■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University