29879 - Teaching of Modern Languages (LM)

Learning outcomes

Students will enhance their knowledge on the basic principles regarding the teaching and learning of second and foreign languages. They will be able to use some teaching techniques and to monitor the development of their own learning. They will be able to independently develop further knowledge and skills in the specific disciplinary area and to use them appropriately. They will enhance their critical thinking and creativity by analysing existing materials, planning, and creating new activities.

Course contents

The course will deal with the main theoretical principles and teaching methods regarding the teaching of second and foreign languages.

In particular, the course will focus on the following topics:

- the main theories regarding the teaching and learning of mother, second, and foreign languages,

- the historical development of language teaching (main approaches and methods), 

- the (inter)cultural dimension in language teaching,

- language skills,

- the role of grammar and vocabulary in language teaching,

- the use of technologies in language teaching,

- evaluation and assessment,

- the use of literary texts in language teaching.

Readings/Bibliography

The study of the following texts is required to both attending and non-attending students:

- Balboni P. E., 2015, Le sfide di Babele. Insegnare le lingue nelle società complesse, Roma, Utet Università (4th Edition). Chs. 2, 3 (Par. 3.1-3.5) [pp.18-86], 4-9 [pp. 103-209], 11 [pp. 219-225].

- Spaliviero C., 2020, Educazione letteraria e didattica della letteratura, Venezia, Edizioni Ca’ Foscari Digital Publishing. Chs. 2-3 [pp.33-92]. Open access: https://edizionicafoscari.unive.it/media/pdf/books/978-88-6969-464-6/978-88-6969-464-6_6YQr7vs.pdf.

For consultation:

- Council of Europe, 2001, Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment, https://rm.coe.int/1680459f97
- Council of Europe, 2020, Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment - Companion Volume, https://rm.coe.int/common-european-framework-of-reference-for-languages-learning-teaching/16809ea0d4

Further study materials will be indicated during the course and will be available on the Virtual Classroom.

Teaching methods

Lectures, pair and group work.

The use of digital devices is highly encouraged. Students will be required to bring their own laptops to class.

Assessment methods

Written exam: it will be made up of both close (multiple choice) and open questions, it will aim to ascertain knowledge and understanding of the course content as well as writing skills. Maximum of 28 marks.

Activities on the Virtual Classroom: they should be done within the time indicated and correspond to original contributions, they will focus on reflecting and discussing on the main issues of language learning and teaching. Maximum of 2 marks, eventually with honors.  

Teaching tools

During the lessons additional supports will be used and provided, including audiovisual tools, power points, websites, e-learning resources for language learning and teaching.

Non-attending students are kindly requested to contact the lecturer (camilla.spaliviero@unibo.it) to receive the access key to the Virtual Classroom of the course, writing as subject: CODICE ACCESSO DIDATTICA DELLE LINGUE MODERNE

Office hours

See the website of Camilla Spaliviero