ITAL 301 – The Florence Experience V

The Florence Experience V is an interdisciplinary course that builds on four semesters of previous work. It focuses on achieving an advanced level in cultural and linguistic-communicative competencies regarding a wide range of complex topics. The oral and written skills developed throughout the course will enable students to express themselves fluently and interact with native speakers. In addition, the course will introduce them to various, relevant aspects of contemporary Florentine life and Italian culture by providing an interdisciplinary experience in language learning. As is well known, this is possible only by direct immersion in the target culture. Since language and culture are deeply connected (language IS culture and culture IS language), each class will acquaint students with such linguistic skills as communicative structures, grammar structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. At the same time, it will provide them with a deeper knowledge of Italian culture. The city of Florence will thus become a cultural laboratory; Florence stands out as the most appealing mix of contemporary Italian culture to be explored by students. In addition to classroom work, the course includes a series of on-site meetings. These will range from interviews with students to field trips and visits to museums and theaters, as well as meetings with students from the “Università degli Studi di Firenze”. ISI Florence students will also meet professional actors who are tasked with conducting language/culture in-class activities.

• achieve an advanced level in cultural and linguistic-communicative competencies regarding a wide range of complex topics.
• be able to express themselves fluently and interact with native speakers.
• be aware of various, relevant aspects of contemporary Florentine life and Italian culture.