Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2018-2019 (archived)

Module GERM2091: GERMAN TRANSLATION

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (German)

GERM2091: GERMAN TRANSLATION

Type Open Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Not available in 2018/19 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • German Language 1A (GERM1011) or an equivalent qualification to the satisfaction of the Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Corequisites

  • Modern Languages & Cultures, Combined Honours/Liberal Arts and Joint Honours: German Language 2A (GERM2021). Other: see Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • German Language 2B. (GERM2152).

Aims

  • The module seeks to develop skills in written translation from German into English and from English into German, and to raise awareness of theoretical issues involved.

Content

  • There will be two components:
  • a weekly practical class to undertake translation from and into German, and a fornightly seminar in which theoretical aspects of translation are discussed and critiques undertaken.
  • regular formative assignments, including responses to precise questions in preparation for guided discussion in practical classes.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Increased awareness of both the translation problems raised by particular texts and the solutions that can be employed in order to produce accurate, idiomatic renderings.
  • Enhanced understanding of translation principles.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Enhanced ability to translate texts of various kinds both into and out of German.
  • Development of reading and writing skills in German.
Key Skills:
  • Development of skills in written argument and presentation.
  • Ability to make effective use of online resources

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

  • This module is taught by means of a weekly practical class, plus fortnightly seminars designed to give students guidance on specific translations and commentary-writing.
  • The programme of weekly practical translation classes will be used for discussion of translation problems with the aid of questions that students will be asked to prepare in advance of each session.
  • The seminars will provide further guidance on the translation problems raised by particular texts, and on commentary-writing techniques.
  • Students are required to attend all classes, and are expected to prepare themselves for and participate actively in discussions.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 20 Weekly 1 hour 20
Practicals 10 Fortnightly 1 hour 10
Preparation and Reading 170
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Computer-based Examination 3 hours 100% Yes

Formative Assessment:

Regular practice translations.


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