Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027

Module ITAL2031: Italian Language 2B

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Italian)

ITAL2031: Italian Language 2B

Type Tied Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2026/2027 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to R002
Tied to RV91
Tied to RV92
Tied to LA01
Tied to LA02
Tied to LA03
Tied to LMV0
Tied to LMVA
Tied to LMVP

Prerequisites

  • Italian Language 1B (ITAL1102) or level equivalent to at least A2.2 (CEFR).

Corequisites

  • At least one additional level 2 module with an ITAL prefix.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Italian Language 2B (ITAL2031) or any Italian module offered by CFLS.

Aims

  • To build on the knowledge and skills acquired in Italian Language 1B.
  • To consolidate and develop comprehensive linguistic and communicative competence across mediation, reading, writing, listening, and speaking to a level equivalent to at least B1.2 (CEFR).
  • To deepen knowledge of the grammatical system and the ability to use grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriate to this level
  • To deepen awareness of the culture(s) of the target language, in order to support their wider study of the language and to prepare them for their Year Abroad.
  • To develop metalinguistic competence, independent learning strategies and digital literacy.

Content

  • The module draws on a range of authentic materials from various regions and includes:
  • A review of key grammatical structures and functions appropriate to CEFR Level B1.2.
  • A broad range of communicative tasks involving written, spoken, and audiovisual material designed to develop expression in the target language and transferable skills.
  • Activities focussed on intercultural communication, cultural diversity, digital literacy, and the use of AI tools for language learning.
  • Practical preparation for the year abroad.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of this module, students should have acquired:
  • A range of Italian vocabulary, a knowledge of Italian grammar and linguistic competence equivalent to at least Level B1.2 of the CEFR.
  • Enhanced awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity.
  • Practical knowledge relevant to real-life contexts, including preparation for the year abroad.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • By the end of this module, students should be able to:
  • Converse, write and read in Italian at a level of fluency appropriate to at least CEFR B1.2.
  • Consolidate their knowledge of key grammatical points and apply them flexibly in varied communicative contexts.
  • Use digital tools, including AI-assisted resources, to support language learning and self-correction.
  • Research in Italian.
  • Draw on their intercultural competence and language, critical thinking and organisational skills to adapt, communicate and interact in a variety of contexts abroad.
Key Skills:
  • By the end of this module, students will have developed:
  • Their language learning skills
  • Their communication, mediation and presentation skills
  • Their ability to work independently and collaborate effectively in groups
  • Their intercultural competence, digital literacy, adaptability and employability.

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

  • The course will be delivered through a variety of teaching and learning methods including classes in the target language, directed and independent study.
  • Classes will facilitate active learning and will allow students to develop their familiarity with a wide range of grammatical structures and vocabulary and to use these appropriately across a range of contexts, and will enable engagement with a broad variety of cultural artifacts. In-year formative and summative assessment, devised to monitor and support learning, will prepare students for the final examinations.
  • The end-of-year written and oral examinations should take place in person, on campus.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
Language Classes 60 3 classes weekly 1 hour 60 Yes
Preparation and Reading 140
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 80%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
On Campus Written Examination 2 hours 75%
Oral Examination 15 minutes (10 minutes speaking time) 25%
Component: In-Year Assessment Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Assignment 75%
Assignment 25%

Formative Assessment:

Regular assessed tasks across all language skills, that may include oral presentations, written assignments, and translation. Activities may also incorporate AI-supported tools and collaborative tasks to reinforce learning and prepare students for real-world communication and the year abroad. Formative feedback will be a combination of self- assessment, peer feedback, oral and written tutor feedback.


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.