Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)

Module SPAN1011: Spanish Language 1A

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Spanish)

SPAN1011: Spanish Language 1A

Type Open Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2023/24 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Grade A in Spanish at A level or an equivalent qualification, subject to decision by the module’s language coordinator

Corequisites

  • At least one additional level 1 module in Hispanic Studies

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Spanish Language 1B (SPAN1072); any MLAN or MLAS coded Spanish Language modules.

Aims

  • To consolidate and extend grammatical knowledge developed for A Level, to enhance communication skills in written and oral Spanish.

Content

  • Reinforcement of knowledge of grammatical structures acquired at 'A' level: speaking and listening practice in small groups, including listening and comprehension exercises with recorded materia.
  • The teaching and resources in this module reflect a commitment to linguistic and cultural diversity. It positions the richness of the (language area)-speaking world at the core of its syllabus.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
    Subject-specific Skills:
    • The primary skills developed in this course are those of writing, reading, oral and aural skills in Spanish.
    Key Skills:
    • In addition we aim to improve self-confidence, communication and presentation skills, by encouraging active participation in discussion;
    • IT skills, through the requirement that all coursework is to be word-processed.

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

    • There are two teaching hours per week and students are required to attend all classes. They will also be required to prepare specific topics on a regular basis and to participate actively in all classes. Classes will be conducted in Spanish but English will be used when necessary, for example to explain complex grammar points. The more students put in to the course the more they will benefit from it.
    • Summative assessment of reading/writing skills and of grammatical knowledge will take the form of an end-of-year examination.
    • Oral skills will be summatively assessed by means of activities carried out in class during the year, including group work.
    • Formative assessment for this module will include a combination of self-assessed, peer-assessed and tutor-assessed exercises during the year.

    Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

    Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
    Language and Computer Classes 42 2 per week 1 hour 42
    Preparation and Reading 158
    Total 200

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Oral Assessment Component Weighting: 25%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    In-class continuous assessment of oral skills 100% 10-minute oral examination
    Component: Examination Component Weighting: 75%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Written Examination 2 hours 100% Yes

    Formative Assessment:

    Regular written assignments/oral practice.


    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