OVERVIEW

The module is taught on an annual basis and consists of 48 hours (8 credits for SID) or 54 hours (9 credits for SAP). It focuses on the study of English for political and diplomatic purposes, addressing both theoretical aspects and practical applications through the analysis of texts. The course is supported by language practice sessions ("lettorato") aimed at helping students revise grammar and reinforce the basic structures of the English language.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to develop both linguistic and cultural understanding of the proposed content, with particular attention to its connection to the students' academic path. Special emphasis is placed on political and diplomatic language in contemporary contexts.

Through the use of the English language, students will be encouraged to reflect on social and political issues, constantly comparing Italian, European, and international contexts.
By the end of the module, students will be able to identify the main features of political and diplomatic discourse and engage in discussions on topics related to specialized vocabulary.
Expected exit level: at least B2 of the CEFR.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module aims to foster not only linguistic but also cultural understanding of the proposed content, enabling students to apply this knowledge in relation to their chosen field of study. This is achieved through the contextualisation of linguistic phenomena within the contemporary world, with a particular focus on political and diplomatic language.

Language will serve as a tool to encourage reflection on the social and political realities of the various areas of study, providing students with the analytical tools needed to interpret international contexts through ongoing comparisons with Italian, European, and non-European realities.

Building on the level of competence acquired during the undergraduate degree, students will, by the end of the module and upon passing the exam, be able to identify the main features of political and diplomatic discourse—stylistic, rhetorical, and lexical—and to participate in discussions and debates in English on topics requiring familiarity with field-specific vocabulary.

The expected level of output is equivalent to at least B2 of the CEFR.

PREREQUISITES

Entry test managed by the University or level B1 certification among those recognized by the University

TEACHING METHODS

The module lasts one year and includes lectures and language activities (esercitazioni linguistiche)

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The module introduces students to the language of politics and diplomacy through a theoretical-methodological part followed by the analysis of texts. The teaching will be supported by linguistic exercises aimed at achieving level B2 language skills

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

1) Partington A. & Taylor C. (2018), The Language of Persuasion in Politics: An Introduction, London & New York: Routledge.

Material uploaded on Aulaweb

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Mid-September 2025

Class schedule

LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND INSTITUTIONS OF ENGLISH-SPEAKING COUNTRIES I

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Written exam: test based on the exercises carried out during the year

Oral exam: interview on the characteristics of political and diplomatic discourse with textual analysis of passages studied in class

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The assessment procedure will take into account the result obtained in the written test and the interview. The assessment will be based on the traditional mark scale from 18 to 30 cum laude.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The teacher communicates with the students through the available platforms, Aulaweb and Teams.

Students with disabilities or other special educational needs are advised to contact both the referent Prof. Aristide Canepa (aristide.canepa@unige.it), and the teacher, at the beginning of the course, to agree on teaching methods. and examinations that, in compliance with the teaching objectives, take into account individual learning methods and provide suitable compensatory tools.