Program Description
The program is designed to introduce undergraduates to elementary Italian language and to Italian culture. Elementary Italian (Italian 1) uses an oral approach to Italian language through communicative activities and creative exercises. This course allows beginning students to function linguistically in a variety of situations. Grammar is introduced in context, and presentations follow an inductive approach. Culture is continuously woven into the oral and written exercises. Elementary readings are introduced after the first two weeks of instruction. Students become acquainted with Florence and Italian culture through excursions, visiting museums, lectures and audio-visuals. Second level elementary Italian offers a more sophisticated approach to oral and written styles. It introduces students to more complex structures of language through communicative activities, which allow students to gain a more intimate relationship with Italy, its art, literature and history.
The culture component of the program is designed to offer students a general overview of Italian culture. It will trace the development of Italian civilization, beginning with the Etruscans and Romans, and continuing through the Renaissance. Students will learn about Italian art, history, language, architecture, theater, and other aspects of Italian culture through lectures, walking tours, field trips (Fiesole, San Gimignano, Uffizi), museum visits, and various readings. Special attention will be given to Florence and Tuscany in general, within the context of the Renaissance.