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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2020 - 2021

Module Title Intercultural Language Skills 2: Advanced Writing (German)
Module Code GE485
School SALIS

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

This module, conducted in the target language, is aimed at advanced learners who wish to further develop their writing and analytical skills for academic purposes. Learners work with texts on current affairs from the target language media. They learn to understand and summarise them and produce a critical analysis while gaining accuracy and fluency on linguistic, sociolinguistic and pragmatic competences. Learners explore and develop writing techniques through specific writing activities in the target language with a view to improving fluency, accuracy and range of expression in written production in the target language.

Learning Outcomes

1. Extract information, ideas and opinions from a wide range of written registers drawn from a variety of sources (for example journalistic, literary, artistic).
2. Produce well organised and structured written discourse of various text types on complex current affairs subjects, showing a controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices in the foreign language.
3. Recognise a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, appreciating register shifts.
4. Express ideas with accuracy and fluency, using a broad lexical repertoire.
5. Develop critical analysis and cultural awareness.
6. Demonstrate the ability to use a variety of online contacts and social networks to find out information.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Seminars24Focus on the development of all skills, in particular writing skills.
Independent Study56Students are expected to engage in any learning activity that is likely to foster their proficiency.
Directed learning45Students will be given regular written homework for practice.
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

The materials used in this module are drawn from level C1 of the CEFR.

Creative and formal writing
This module is task-based and involves two hours a week. All tasks lay emphasis on critical analysis, linguistic accuracy and pragmatic competence. Taking into account the needs and interests of the class, tasks include: (a) the study and use of contemporary vocabulary, advanced grammar and styles related to genres and registers encountered in a variety of current affairs texts and media; (b) the exploration and guided discussion in small groups of social, political and cultural issues related to the target language context; (c) the production of writing tasks (such as summary, argumentative essay, commentaries etc.) for individual feedback. Coursework involves individual written assignments and group in-class oral and written tasks. Students are expected to practise all skills outside the classroom, using all available resources (provided by the teacher, LanguaCulture Space, library, film festivals and other cultural events).

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment0% Examination Weight100%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

    Other Resources

    None
    Programme or List of Programmes
    ALFGBA in Applied Languages (French/German)
    Archives: