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SPAN1181: Introduction to Catalan Language and Culture

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Type Open
Level 1
Credits 20
Availability Available in 2025/2026
Module Cap None
Location Durham
Department Modern Languages and Cultures (Spanish)

Prerequisites

  • Grade B or above at A-Level in a foreign European Language, or an equivalent qualification to the satisfaction of the Chair of the Board of Studies in MLAC or their representative.

Corequisites

  • For BA in Modern Languages, Joint Honours including a Modern Language, and Combined Honours: Spanish Language 1A (SPAN 1011) OR Spanish Language 1B (SPAN1072). Others: see Chair of the Board of Studies in MLAC or their representative.

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • To provide an introduction to Catalan language and culture.

Content

  • This module will offer an introduction to the Catalan language and the culture associated with it.
  • The emphasis will be on language acquisition, using material available from Catalonia, including video material

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • a thorough understanding of the key grammatical structures of modern Catalan and will be able to generate them in spontaneous speech and in writing
  • a grounding in the use of different linguistic registers, and will be able to demonstrate good comprehension of short texts in Catalan.
  • In addition, students will be conversant with basic concepts in the history and culture of Catalonia and will be able to appreciate the historical context in which its identity was formed.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • Beginner-level speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Catalan.
  • Understanding of elements of Catalan social and cultural history.

Key Skills:

  • Written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to gather and process information from a range of sources.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • There will be one weekly grammar class and one weekly oral class.
  • Classes will be given in English and Catalan.
  • Students are required to attend all classes, and are expected to prepare themselves for them and participate actively in discussions.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Grammar Classes20Weekly1 Hour20Yes
Language Classes20Weekly1 Hour20Yes
Preparation and Reading160 
Total200 

Summative Assessment

Component: Written examinationComponent Weighting: 60%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
On Campus Written Examination2 hours100
Component: Oral examinationComponent Weighting: 30%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Oral Examination10 minutes100
Component: EssayComponent Weighting: 10%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Essay300 words100

Formative Assessment

Regular written assignments/oral practice.

More information

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