Module Directory

This fast-paced term-long introductory Portuguese module is especially devised for students with an A-level proficiency (B2 in the European Framework) in Spanish, French, Italian, Romanian, or equivalent knowledge, or those who speak one of these languages as their first language. Emphasizing both accuracy and communication, the objective is to achieve a proficiency level equivalent to Threshold Level A2+ of the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR).

The module also acquaints students with the cultures and societies of Portuguese-speaking countries. It further aims to cultivate intellectual skills such as critical reasoning, application of concepts, and problem-solving. Students will utilize a variety of resources available on Moodle and in class. Independent language study and engagement with other speakers of the language will be facilitated using internet-based tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Additionally, students will be encouraged to participate in cultural events and activities related to the language, both at the University and in the UK.

The aims of this module are:

• To assist students in acquiring basic language skills, covering listening, speaking, reading, and writing.


• To expand students’ awareness of the cultures and societies of the countries where Portuguese is spoken.


• To foster the development of intellectual skills such as critical reasoning, the application of concepts, and the identification and resolution of problems.


• To encourage the adoption of autonomous learning skills and an investigative approach to address grammatical and lexical challenges within a broader system.


• To practice and expand transferable skills, including intercultural awareness and language mediation, communication and presentation skills, independent learning, creative and analytical thinking, reflective skills, problem-solving, team-working, disciplined time management, research skills, and the use of electronic media.

By the end of this module, students are expected to be able to:

1. Communicate effectively in simple, routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities.


2. Understand highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance.


3. Read and extract specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses, menus, and timetables.


4. Produce short writing tasks in various genres (e.g., text messages, email messages, short compositions).


5. Make appropriate lexical and grammatical choices when speaking and writing in Portuguese.


6. Have developed academic and transferable study skills, including intercultural awareness, language mediation skills, intellectual (critical and analytical thinking), research skills, problem-solving, team-working.


7. Plan and deliver oral presentations.
   

   In addition to the above, students at Level 5 (Year 2) will be expected to:

   
   


8. Collaborate effectively with peers in group work, demonstrating leadership and teamwork skills.


9. Understand and use appropriate levels of formality when speaking Portuguese.

The objective is to achieve a proficiency level equivalent to Threshold Level A2+ of the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR). 

This module will be delivered via:

• 4 one-hour seminars per week.