Overview

This module provides continuation from LZS-1001, and aims to enhance the written oral and aural skills of advanced (post A-level) students of Spanish. It comprises text-based classes in which students have the opportunity to enhance their translation and writing skills, as well as oral/aural classes, in which a range of advanced audio and visual aids are employed to stimulate group discussions and debates. Throughout the module, students also have the opportunity extend their knowledge of more complex areas of grammar. The texts and materials used in this module are chosen from a range of sources including media and literary works in order to familiarise students with variations in tone and register, as well as to improve comprehension of different Spanish accents. Through these materials, students will also gain an insight into particular Hispanic themes and issues that relate to contemporary life and society in the Spanish-speaking world. Learning outside of the classroom is supported through a co-curricular Self-Study Portfolio.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -40-49%: Limited knowledge of Spanish grammar and vocabulary resulting in a limited ability to communicate in writing or translate from Spanish - English and English-Spanish. Basic understanding of aural and written material in Spanish. Basic grasp of Spanish pronunciation and limited ability to converse freely in Spanish and respond to spoken material. Limited ability to present and defend opinions in written and oral Spanish.

-good -50-69%: Good knowledge of Spanish grammar and vocabulary resulting in a good ability to communicate in writing or translate from Spanish-English and English-Spanish. Good understanding of aural and written material in Spanish. Good grasp of Spanish pronunciation and some ability to converse freely in Spanish and respond to spoken material. Ability to present and defend opinions in written and oral Spanish.

-excellent -70+%: Excellent knowledge of Spanish grammar and vocabulary resulting in an excellent ability to communicate in writing or translate from Spanish-English and English-Spanish. Excellent understanding of aural and written material in Spanish. Excellent grasp of Spanish pronunciation and clear ability to converse freely in Spanish and respond to spoken material. Clear ability to present and defend opinions in written and oral Spanish.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply new areas of vocabulary and more complex idiomatic expression to written and oral work.

• Demonstrate confidence in extracting and using information presented in Spanish-language sources to answer questions in the target language.

• Employ advanced grammatical structures in written and oral work.

• Engage with Spanish language in spoken form (including different accents) understanding, reacting and responding to it in an interactive context.

• Explore and evaluate some of the key themes and debates dominating contemporary Spanish culture.

• Produce accurate and idiomatically correct written Spanish.

• Understand and translate more challenging written texts varying in style and register.