48
English Language and Translation
UNIVERSITÀ DEGLI STUDI DI NAPOLI "L'ORIENTALE"
Overview
Date/time interval
Syllabus
Course Objectives
The methodological course consists of lectures on theoretical topics, narrative and interactive applications of case studies, and an annual cycle of language exercises. The course is presented to third-year students as an opportunity for self-assessment of their skills and knowledge. To this end, grammar, reading, and listening exercises are introduced to expand vocabulary and strengthen communicative accuracy.
The methodological course introduces the main aspects of discourse analysis by examining the various methodological tools aimed at analysing the relationship between discourse, identity, power, and ideology, as well as the different discursive strategies on which the construction of consensus/dissent is based.
The objectives of the course include the acquisition of metalinguistic skills, the application of discursive analysis tools to various genres and types of non-literary texts, and the ability to apply these tools in accordance with the principles of multimodality, emphasising contextual linguistic and digital skills.
The expected language proficiency upon completion of the course corresponds to an advanced level of linguistic and communicative competence (CEFR), therefore the language tutorials with CELs are considered an integral part of the course.
With reference to the Dublin descriptors, the expected results are:
- Autonomy of judgement, ability to contribute critically and to be able to interpret and summarise complex and authentic texts in English in a personal and effective manner.
- Communication skills, advanced skills in comprehension and production of audio-visual (advanced level) and multimedia text.
Course Prerequisites
The student is expected to have an intermediate to advanced level of English proficiency in both comprehension and production skills. The course aims at an advanced exit level. English Language 2 is a prerequisite for English Language 3.
Teaching Methods
The course consists of a semester-long module of 48 hours of lectures taught by the lecturer in the first semester, as well as language tutorials for communicative purposes in a year-long course (both in the first and second semesters), held by language experts (CELs).
Since the lectures are interactive in nature and require active and continuous participation in oral discussion, constant attendance is encouraged. Students unable to attend are invited to contact the lecturer (in advance of the session in which they intend to sit the exam) during office hours for clarification on the use of study materials.
The process of acquiring metalinguistic skills and the ability to apply the tools of discourse analysis through taught instruction (75%) will be accompanied by practical exercises and examples of Discourse Analysis (25%), including 'blended learning' activities.
Assessment Methods
The examination consists of a language proficiency test and an oral examination in English. The two parts must be taken together.
Assessment criteria:
Only students who pass the language proficiency test are admitted to the oral examination. The oral examination consists of a discussion, in English, of the topics covered during the methodology course with the lecturer, including the analysis of examples and case studies addressed.
During the course, students will complete exercises and tests that assess both written and oral skills they will acquire. Assessment is based on language skills (both comprehension and production) and the ability to analyse authentic texts.
The final assessment may vary from 18/30 to 30/30 depending on the level of accuracy and completeness of the oral interview and the correct use of methodologies and theories as well as the mastery of the English language.
The minimum assessment level (18/30) is awarded when the student shows uncertain or partial mastery in applying knowledge and methods, and/or has fragmentary knowledge limited to the basics of various topics. They must also demonstrate a minimal command of the English language in their argumentation and exposition of their theses, aligning with the minimum requirements of an upper-intermediate to an advanced level of English proficiency.
The top grade (30/30) is awarded when a student demonstrates full and comprehensive mastery of theoretical knowledge and analytical methods, capable of solving problems with critical thinking and precision. They must also demonstrate a strong command of English when confidently discussing and presenting their theses, reflecting a proficient level of advanced language skills.
Texts
- Jones, Rodney H. 2024. Discourse Analysis: A Resource Book for Students (3rd edition). London/New York: Routledge.
- Baker, Paul / Ellece, Sibonile 2011. Key Terms in Discourse Analysis. London: Continuum.
Additional study materials will be provided during the course.
Contents
COURSE TITLE
English Language 3: Methods of discourse analysis
TOPICS
1. Discourse analysis
2. Text and textuality
3. Genre
4. Critical discourse analysis
5. Pragmatics
6. Conversation analysis
7. Context, culture, and communication
8. Mediated discourse analysis
9. Multimodal discourse analysis
10. Corpus-assisted discourse analysis
Course Language
English
More information
Any compensatory tools for students with SLD must be agreed upon with the teacher (through the dedicated SLD help desk).