OVERVIEW

The theoretical part of the course will focus on course will focus on the use, function, and pluralistc nature of English as a global language. To help students develop their critical and analytical skills, the course introduces not only content topics but focuses on independent active learning in the context of small-scale research projects. The practical part of the course is meant to support students in reaching English level C1.2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to explore the role of English as an international communication bridge, which, arising from historical, colonial influences and the spread of multinational companies, focuses on the ability to communicate effectively in international contexts.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The theory part aims to support students in developing:

- an understanding of the role and function English plays as a global commuication language

- their critical and thinking skills;

- their analytical skills as well as the ability to carry out small research tasks;

The practice part aims to bring students to the C1.2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. 

PREREQUISITES

High level of English proficiency, ability to work independently, and to use a computer for research and course work. 

TEACHING METHODS

The linguistics module is made up of weekly seminars in the second semester.

The practical module is made up of weekly classes in both semesters. 

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

This course is divided into two parts: a one-semester linguistics module ("modulo teorico"), which is held in the second semester and a two-semester practical module ("modulo pratico" or "esercitazioni"). 

Each component ("modulo pratico" and "modulo teorico") is assessed separately. The practical module is assessed at the end of the second semester through a written exam paper (use of English, reading and comprehension, text and translation analysis) and an oral exam. The linguistics module is assessed through an oral presentation towards the end of the course and a computer-based test at the end of the second semester. 

The linguistics module ("modulo teorico") focuses on English as a global language and basic research methodology. Classes will focus on the spread of English through colonialim and globalization, its diverse varieties and use contexts, and address questions of pluricentric language teaching. 

The practical language module aims to bring students to the C1.2 level (higher end of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages C1 level). More information about the practical component is available on Aulaweb. 

The final mark is calculated as follows:

50% (of the overall mark) is the written + oral practical part (70% of which is the written part and 30% of which is the oral part),
50% (of the overall mark) is the theory part (which can be achieved either through computer-based test or in-class participation and final project).

Those students who cannot attend classes will not be required to integrate the syllabus in any way: they will need to study the same syllabus as the students who can attend. 

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Modulo Teorico:

Galloway, N., & Rose, H. (2015). Introducing global englishes. Routledge.

Modulo Pratico:

Roadmap C1-C2. Student’s Book: https://www.pearson.com/languages/en-ca/educators/connected-english-learning-program/adult/roadmap.html

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Classes for this course start at the beginning of the first semester for the MA course in Modern languages and literatures for teaching, publishing and digital media, the week starting with Monday, 29th September 2025.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The theoretical module is assessed through either a computer-based assessment (non-attending students) or in-class projects (attending students). In the computer-based test, students are asked to answer questions about the spread and use of English, about the analysis of different varieties, and its connection to globalization and colonialism. Students are further asked to critically comment on specific discussions from the course by applying theories and knwoledge gained from the study materials. The aim is to assess their overall understanding of the course matter and their critical and thinking skills, their ability to understand, discuss and elaborate on classroom disocurse and content. The final projecy consists of a presentation or a written assignment in which students develop a relevant research question, identify suitable research methods, and collect and analyse relevant data. 

The practical module is assessed at the end of the second semester through a written exam paper (use of English, reading and comprehension, text and translation analysis) and an oral exam. Students will be expected to have reached the C1.2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages by the end of the course. 

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The theoretical module is assessed through either a computer-based assessment (non-attending students) or in-class projects (attending students). In the computer-based test, students are asked to answer questions about the spread and use of English, about the analysis of different varieties, and its connection to globalization and colonialism. Students are further asked to critically comment on specific discussions from the course by applying theories and knwoledge gained from the study materials. The aim is to assess their overall understanding of the course matter and their critical and thinking skills, their ability to understand, discuss and elaborate on classroom disocurse and content. The final projecy consists of a presentation or a written assignment in which students develop a relevant research question, identify suitable research methods, and collect and analyse relevant data. 

The practical module is assessed at the end of the second semester through a written exam paper (use of English, reading and comprehension, text and translation analysis) and an oral exam. Students will be expected to have reached the C1.2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages by the end of the course. 

FURTHER INFORMATION

Attendance is strongly recommended. 

Signing up for the written and oral exams is obligatory. Students will not be allowed to sit the exam(s), should they fail to do so.

The course can be attended by Erasmus students. Erasmus students who choose to attend this course are invited to contact Dr. Zurru during her office hours as soon as they arrive. 

Students with disabilities and/or special needs are invited to get in touch with Dr. Nishizaki during her office hours at the beginning of the course, so that their specific needs can be addressed both in terms of classes and assessment. They should also get in touch with Prof. Sara Dickinson (sara.dickinson@unige.it), the Department’s disability liaison.