We hope this can be for you a start for a cultural exploration of Italy. We will be pleased to endow you with an instrument capable to improve your knowledge of our country: the italian language. Look at it as a key to open the many doors of our reality. We wish you good work and a very nice trip!

Koinè is a special kind of school. In fact it was set up in 1980 as an association of teachers, all coming from personal and professional experiences in the area of teaching Italian as a foreign language. Since these teachers were dissatisfied with their experiences, they decided to create a new structure which would differ from other private schools in the style of work and teaching methods.

Our courses lay emphasis on spoken language, not disregarding grammar rules, but considering language in its actual function, that is a means of communication between people. Therefore our lessons are focused on making students communicate in italian, helping them to achieve a better expression and comprehension. In this we have always been accurate and our method has been established over a 20 years activity of constant research and applied studies.
Our school gained official recognization by the Italian Ministry of Education last year and belongs to the Asils association of Italian schools for foreigners.

The program and didactic method were developed over a 10-year period of research and testing by the didactic group of the Koinè Centre. Through this work, the Center has developed teaching materials, books, and audiovisual tools and organized seminars and teacher orientation courses.
THE PROGRAM Our courses represent a communications program based on the realities of everyday life in Italy, and include the main aspects of social and cultural reality. We have established a program which, through the selection of specific reading materials, helps the student experience Italian society in an individual, personal way and not merely though the eyes of a tourist.
THE METHOD Our program follows a method which considers different didactic methods, but is based principally on activities requiring the use of creativity and induction. These kinds of activities are aimed at developing the confidence and autonomy of the student who is required to participate actively in classes. In this way, the students become the protagonists and the teacher becomes a discussion leader. According to the best scientific research, in order to be truly effective, teaching should involve not only the rational part of the memory but also the unconscious. The goal is to conquer concrete abilities. First, talking and speaking and then reading and writing, to avoid learning blocked by the inability to communicate effectively.

 
On the first day, students take a language test to determine their level and to enable us to create homogeneous classes. There are five levels divided into two cycles. Each level takes a month to complete. Therefore, it is possible to attend for a minimum of 1 month and a maximum of 5 months to complete the entire cycle.

BASE LEVEL The attainment by passing three proficiency levels of the “threshold level B1”; that is, the level of communicative ability recognized by the Common European Framework for Languages as permitting participation in an Italian language environment.
ELEMENTARY LEVEL Allows means to handle most daily situations, to satisfy basic needs, and to understand relatively simple information.
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL Allows means to handle most daily situations, to express one's point of view, and to explain, describe, and recount in a sufficiently precise manner.
ADVANCED LEVEL This enables one to reach the threshold level, i.e., to obtain those linguistic instruments of communication necessary to move easily within Italy and in direct contact with Italians. The entire cycle places emphasis on the spoken language.
SPECIALIZATION LEVEL At two teaching levels: the rationalization through the systematic procedures of knowledge of the language, of correctness of expression of the richer aspects of the spoken and written language.

Upper Level 1: Morphology and syntax 1st part. Analysis and in-depth study of various tone levels in the spoken language.
Upper Level 2: Morphology and syntax, 2nd part. Analysis and in-depth study of the various tone levels in written language. Introduction to dialects.

 

 

Founded by a group of artists who graduated from the Art Academy of Florence, Accademia d’Arte AD’A, offers courses in art and culture for a wide variety of students, both foreign and Italian, who are interested in understanding and, or, deepening their knowledge of specific artistic disciplines.

Accademia d’Arte AD’A is open year-round and is located in the historic center of Florence which is home to many important museums and a place of study for artists from all over the world.

The courses are composed of lectures by visiting artists, museum visits and lessons taught by professional artists. The faculty of Accademia d’Arte ADA strive to facilitate the comprehension and insertion of students into the variegated art world.

The length of the courses vary and is determined by the possible length of stay of the students interested in specific programs.

In addition to its academic curricula, Accademia d’Arte AD’A offers services which are especially helpful for foreign students including various types of housing arrangements, an extracurricular program with both cultural and recreational activities and other services to ensure that the students’ period of study is both interesting and profitable.


 

Ancient painting techniques   

The course introduces to the students the painting techniques practised between 1300 and 1500; also the study of the major works of the period from Giotto to Leonardo and Michelangelo. The knowledge gained will be put into practice by the copying of two paintings in order that the student may learn the fundamental techniques used; such as egg tempera, gold leaf, up to an including oil colours. The entire process for the realization of complete paintings will be put into practice, from the preparation of the supports to the final glazing.

The theoretical part of this course envisages the introduction to the painting techniques from 1300 to 1500 by the reading of the "Libro dell'arte" (Book of Art) of Cennino Cennini, 14th painter and theoretician and also lessons in base material, preparation of gesso, the composition of colours and paints. 

The practical part starts with the preparation of the base material and finishes with the completion of a copy. A series of conferences and guided visits to museums will round off the course.

Contemporary painting   

The aim of this course is to introduce the student to the use of new art languages by the study of new materials and contemporary art techniques.

In the theoretical part, besides dealing with the historical and aesthetic aspects of visual perception, through works of critics, philosophers (Gombrich and Arnheim) and artists (Klee, Kandinsky) we introduce students to the artistic avant garde from the early 20th century until the latest trends, until the point is reached where the student can analyze the newest materials available and the new technologies for base materials, the composition of artistic colours and industrial colours. 

In the practical part of the course, from the study and use of base materials ( canvas, wood, metals, plastic materials) , traditional and industrial colours, the student is introduced to the use of mixed techniques, such as sponging, printing,natural and industrial materials, with the aim of encouraging the development of a personal language.

Photography 

The aim of this course is to transmit the techniques necessary to solve the problems of the image by studying the main specialities of photography, such as "photoreportage" , still life, landscape, the portrait, the reproduction of works of art, fashion and artistic photography, thereby enabling the student to develop a personal style and an individuality., thus preparing him for the profession.

The course caters for two levels, basic and advanced.

Amongst the themes which will be developed in the Basic Course are:- the initial use of the camera (diaphragm, timing, depth), framing ( composition and perspective), use of natural light, interiors and exteriors , and the different types of film. 

Amongst the themes developed in the advanced course are:- depth of field, the controls and the effects of natural light, the techniques of artificial illumination, flash, use of a set of lenses, the dark room, and colour. Both these courses are reinforced by history lectures and analysis of photography.
      
Drawing 

The aim of this course is to introduce the student to the use of various materials such as charcoal and "sanguigna" in order to enable him to recognize form and graphite ( pencil) in order to deepen his work by the technique of chiaroscuro. 
These techniques will be put into practice by studying the forms of still life and of live models. During the course, pen and ink will be utilized and the use of colour will be introduced by the addition of pencils, chalks and pastels.

The course includes theory and a series of interesting visits to museums and collections of drawings and graphics.
       
Art History  

The course consist in a route through the artistic movements from Middle Age to Nineteen century.
A particular reference will be done at the artists of the florentine school, from Giotto to Masaccio, from Leonardo to Michelangelo and Raffaello, until Fattori and Signorini, contemporaries of French impressionists.
The course will be integrated by visits in museums, where will be possible to admire the masterpieces   


Etching  

During the course the teacher will furnish the basis of the most known etching techniques and the printmaking.
The printing is the result of an impression.
This is what distinguish an etching from a drawing or a painting. It's also the reason you can reproduce the printing in more exemplary.
There are various materials for etching and various are the techniques: from dry point on zinc to acquaforte on copper until xylograph on wood (xylem=wood).

Sculpture  

This course allows the student to choose between a wide variety of techniques and media, including clay modelling, marble sculpture and wood cut.
According to the student’s level of study and course selection, the student may choose to concentrate on a specific technique or may choose to diversify techniques and materials.
 At the beginning of the course there will be an introduction to functional drawing for sculpture used in connection with the various techniques.

Fashion Design 

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the world of fashion. Following an initial project in which they research visual materials, the students will design their own personal collection.
Close attention will be given to the sketches for designs of accessories, purses, backpacks and shoes, as well as to the overall presentation of collection plans.
The students must realize a prototype, they will be introduced to various techniques of artisan and industrial production of myriad items of clothing and accessories. In addition, the students will study the different typologies of materials used in production. 
     
Ceramic

The aim of this course is to introduce the student to the use of the fundamental techniques of the ceramic manufacturing, such as the bas-relief and the three-dimensional techniques; to the study and execution of the different painting and decoration techniques of the ceramic, besides to the analysis of the composition with the different kinds of the ceramic mixing.

With the knowledge acquired during the course, the student shall have the basis to create autonomous pieces that stimulate their own creativity and the personal style, combining together different techniques.

The theoretical and practical development of the lessons will be held with by bibliographic texts, photographies, visits to the main museums of Florence and with the possible visits to some ceramic factories to observe the production process.

THE SCHOOL IN THE CITY:

Recognised by the University of Siena , is run by a cooperative of teachers. It was founded in 1986.

ORBETELLO, surrounded by its lagoon, was an important Etruscan port and the home of trade between ancient civilisations. Its historical, urban and natural features provide the ideal conditions for meeting local people, as well as guaranteeing quality of life, making it just the place for a language school.
The old town centre, was originally organised to provide a functional setting for everyday life of the townsfolk. The same places where people used to meet within the Etruscan walls, are still in use today. The little piazzas and quiet lanes with their bars and restaurant tables, come to life in the evenings, with street theatre s and concerts that are open to everyone. The warm Mediterranean air provides encourages one to stop and mingle with others.

This is the rich setting in which you'll find the TERRAMARE School .

The close contact with the everyday life of the town gives our students many opportunities to hear and use everyday Italian, and creates a close interaction between the language learnt in school, and practice in the local community. Ours is, in fact, a responsive school capable of transforming local cultural events, plays and shows into enjoyable learning situations for further language study and social activities.

ENROLLING FOR A COURSE AT THE TERRAMARE SCHOOL means numerous opportunities to combine language learning with language practice.

Classes are always small with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 students, divided into 6 levels (as described in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

In the morning (9.00 am to 1.00pm Monday to Friday) there are general language lessons with activities to encourage the practical application of the language and the analysis of form and structure with the aim of fully involving each student in their own linguistic and cultural development.

The school is open all year round. It's possible to enrol at any time and choose a course specially tailored to your requirements, answering to any need of studying, working, way of life and leasure time and suited to any level.

Small classes (minimum 2/maximum 6 students)

All levels are recognized by the Common European Framework for Languages.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (GROUP)
Standard course 20h/wk + cultural activities and excursions

The duration of the standard course is two weeks. It is also possible to enrol for periods of one or more weeks. The classes are formed on the first day of the course after the compilation of a language level test. All the levels are catered for, from beginners to proficiency. Each class has a minimum of two, a maximum of 6 students. Lessons take place in the morning, Monday to Friday, from 9.00 a.m. to 1. 00 p.m. (with a twenty minutes break).

THE PROGRAM:
Morning: 4 hrs language lessons from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a brief pause of 20 minutes.
The desire to include social and cultural information about our Country is a strong motivation to learn the language. For this reason, as our land is so rich in nature, archaeology, art, history and traditions, we offer an intense program of cultural activities in the afternoon.
Afternoon: 4 cultural meetings ( 6hrs/1wk; 12 hrs/2 wks)- Italian literature, art history, archaeology, art, song and cinema.

1 all day historical-naturalistic excursion to one of the islands of Tuscan Archipelagos during the first week.
1 half day historical-naturalistic excursion during the first week (Natural Park of Maremma, "Giardino dei Tarocchi" by Niki de Saint Phalle, Spring-waters of Saturnia.
1 half day historical-naturalistic excursion during the second week (after a little trek along the cost to swim, you can see an ancient Roman or Etruscan site).

COMBINED INTENSIVE
Italian language and culture with group+ two hrs "one to one" p.m.

THE PROGRAM:
Class lessons each morning from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. plus two hours of individual tuition in the afternoons.
Students who choose a combined course participate in all the cultural activities organized by the school for intensive group courses.
The possibility for the students to integrate the program and to include specific purposes.

At the Domus Aurea Centre learning Italian takes place in a cultural and historical framework that helps you learn about Rome and Italy through art, history and traditions.

By now we have twenty years of educational experience.
Expert language teachers carefully plan the teaching units using modern methods of direct teaching to use the language as a means of communication.
 
The small number of students in each class (maximum 8) allows the teachers to dedicate time to each student individually, meeting their language needs.
Highly active and motivated, our teachers also act as “interaction leaders” and are there for the students even during social gatherings.

Before starting a class students take both a written and an oral test to determine their level of Italian. At the end of the course a brief final test completes the evaluation process.
A Certificate of attendence recognized by the Italian Ministry of Public Instruction will be given to each student.
On request the school is able to provide certificates for Visa and resident permit for students.

The school
 
The Domus Aurea School came to life in 1997, from the idea of its founder, Massimo Sponsiello, and the present Director of the School, Nella Leo, to create a joint program with Apulia, that would reveal all the different facets of Italy.

The school is located in the heart of the city, between via Nazionale and the Coliseum, just a short walk from the legendary Trevi Fountain and the eternal Roman Forum.

The school is on the first floor of a 19th century building. There are 5 classrooms each with a table and chairs, a whiteboard and a tape recorder.

There is a small multimedia laboratory with free internet connection, a spacious administrative area, the Director’s office, 2 toilets and a small garden terrace.

In the entrance hall there are the drinks dispensers (coffee and water) and a notice board. Near the secretary’s office there is a small lounge where those who come for course information can wait.

Teaching and courses

At the Domus Aurea Centre for Italian Language and Culture the teaching method is functional-communicative: based on communication and interaction integrated with the study of grammar.

The teaching units emerge from the integration of the linguistic skills taken in the following order: reading-listening, comprehension, speaking and writing. Vocabulary is a part of the reading-listening and comprehension module, while grammatical analysis is the moment for the student to examine the syntactical structure of the language.

To help our students learn quickly and to enrich their knowledge of Italy, Domus Aurea develops students' skills integrating language with general culture.
Our students come from all over the world; to respect our choice of teaching methods, communication in the classroom takes place mainly in Italian. 
 
The teachers, with the help of a progressive vocabulary base, help the beginning students to express themselves correctly starting from the very first lessons.
There are five language levels: Beginners, Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced and Profinciency. Each level is completed in 80 hours of class time.

To guarantee this there is a tutoring service, both for group lessons and individual lessons, to help the students. This allows us to follow each student‘s instruction step by step and, based on the objectives of the course, allows us to check results as the course moves along. Furthermore, where there are specific needs, tutoring guarantees a service usually offered only through individual lessons.

As far as study tools is concerned, we will focus on the following points:
1) Teaching materials: planned and provided by the teachers in structured teaching units. These are integrated with other publications and authentic materials such as newspapers, photographs, advertisements, and so on.
2) Multimedia support material: the basic use of teaching materials like the TV, the video and the computer for multimedia programs contribute to maintaining the students’ interest and motivation.
3) Work outside the class: watching films and reading in Italian guarantees the continuity needed for good results.

At the end of each course the students receive a Diploma containing the teacher’s comments, the number of hours studied, the level and the type of course taken. The students also receive a certificate that indicates their performance in each of the skill areas; this information is used in conjunction with the teacher’s advice to suggest the best way for each student to carry on his language studies, either individually or in another course.

 

 

 

 

 

COURSE

ATTENDENCE

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WEEK COST

CONVENIENCE (PRICE PER WEEK)

REGULAR	MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9,00-11,00	SERVICES: Entrance Test Study Materials certificates, Internet ACTIVITIES: Welcome and Farewell buffet city tour film club	100,00 € + 60,00 enrollment	90,00 € MINIMUM 12 WEEKS + 60,00 enrollment
INTENSIVE	MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9,00-13,00		160,00 € + 60,00 enrollment	150,00 € MINIMUM 12 WEEKS + 60,00 enrollment
ESTENSIVE	2 LESSONS EVERY WEEK 9,00-11,00 or 18.00-20.00		50,00 € + 60,00 enrollment	40,00 € MINIMUM 12 WEEKS + 60,00 enrollment

SPECIAL COURSES CAN BE COMBINED WITH EITHER GROUP COURSES OR INDIVIDUAL LESSONS

COURSES CALENDAR 2008

JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SET	OCT	NOV	DEC
07 21	04 18	03 17 31	14 28	12 26	09 23	07 21	04 18	01 15 29	13 27	10 24	9

INDIVIDUAL AND SEMI-INDIVIDUAL LESSONS Individual Lessons and Semi-individual Lessons (2 students) are taught all year round. Students who opt for an individual course have a full range of choices for the number of lessons per week and the programme to follow. Based on our 5 language levels, the number of lesson hours for the course is directly related to the students' objectives. Once you have chosen the type of course that suits your needs, click on the enrolment button to send the form to the secretary at the Domus Aurea Centre. Remember that you can take one of our special courses while you take a standard language class. START DATE COURSE LENGTH COURSE DAYS TIMES WHAT'S INCLUDED COST INDIVIDUAL LESSONS COST SEMI-INDIVIDUAL LESSONS PER PERSON Throughout the year Minimum suggested 20 hours MONDAY TO SATURDAY Morning, Afternoon, Evening Internet; Language Lab; Certificates; Lending Library 32,00 € per hour + 60.00 enrolment fee 16,00 € per hour + 60.00 enrolment fee START DATE COURSE LENGTH COURSE DAYS TIMES WHAT'S INCLUDED COST (EURO) From September to May 20 hours (two weeks) MONDAY TO FRIDAY Morning, Afternoon, Evening Single room with bath, Transport on arrival from airport and/or train station, City tour, Diploma, Internet; Language Lab; Certificates; Didactic Materials; Lending Library 980,00 SPECIAL COURSES Special Courses can be combined with either group courses or individual lessons. Exam preparation for the CILS Certificate in Siena, the CELI in Perugia, the IT in Rome are in the category of Special Courses. Once you have chosen the best course to suit your needs, click on the enrolment button to send the form to the secretary at the Domus Aurea Centre. COURSE NAME ATTENDENCE WHAT'S INCLUDED COST PER HOUR INDIVIDUAL LESSONS COST PER HOUR SEMI-INDIVIDUAL LESSONS (2 STUDENTS) Choice of: History; Art History; Literature; Italian Political and Legal History; Italian for Business Time table to defined (minimun 20 hours recommended) Study Materials, Internet; Certificate, Lending Library: Books and Films 38,00 € 19,00 € PER PERSON Exam Preparation CILS, CELI, IT 38,00 € 19,00 € PER PERSON Italian Cooking Study Materials, Internet; Certificate, Lending Library: Books and Films; Diploma; 38,00 € 19,00 € PER PERSON Choice of: Ceramics or Papier-mâché 38,00 € 19,00 € PER PERSON PROGRAM FOR SPECIAL COURSES MEDITERRANEAN COOKING 5 lessons for a total of 20 hours including texts and diploma. Simple dishes to satisfy every taste In the first part of the lesson, the participants will acquire the theoretical knowledge required to prepare (in the second part of the lesson) some of the most representative dishes, and taste selected wines to accompany them. -   different shapes and kinds of pasta -   how to make pizza -   fish -   meat and vegetables -   wines and olive oil     COURSE OF ART AND HISTORY 5 lessons for a total of 20 hours including texts and diploma Tours of Rome to learn about the treasures and history of the city from its foundation to present times. In the first part of the lesson, the participants will acquire the theoretical knowledge required to visit (in the second part of the lesson) some of the most representative and impressive monuments of the town. MONDAY Public and Private architecture of ancient Rome (from 8C B.C. to the Roman Empire) Tour: The Roman Forum and the Coliseum TUESDAY From pagan times to Christianity (from the end of the Roman Empire to the early Middle Ages) Tour: St. Clement Church WEDNESDAY The Medieval period in Rome (the 1200s and the 1300s) Tour: From the Campidoglio (Capitol) to the Tiber Island THURSDAY The Renaissance, Basilicas and Treasures of Rome (From the 1400s to the 1500s) Tour: St. Peter's and Castel Sant'Angelo FRIDAY The opulence of the Baroque and the modern age, Piazzas and Fountains of Rome (from the 1600s to the 1800s) Tour: the Quirinale, Trevi Fountain, Piazza di Spagna, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Piazza Venezia DUAL COURSE “ROMA AND LECCE” This kind of course is for those people who wants to make two experiences in one study holiday, guaranteeing teaching continuity: a part of the course in the “Eternal City” to experience a great metropolis, and the other part in the elaborate and baroque city of Lecce, which conquers everyone with its sea, its traditions, its festivals. The course can start in either Rome or Lecce Once you have chosen the type of course that suits your needs, click on the enrolment button to send the form to the secretary at the Domus Aurea Centre. Remember that you can take one of our special courses while you take a class in Language and Culture. START DATE IN LECCE COURSE DAYS SOCIAL ACTIVITIES LECCE SOCIAL ACTIVITIES ROMA SERVICES INCLUDED: LECCE AND ROMA COURSE LENGTH HOURS COST PER PERSON Any Monday of the year MONDAY TO FRIDAY The ones included in course chosen The ones included in course chosen Internet End of Course Certificate Study Materials Language Laboratory Film Club We suggest minimum 2 weeks The hours included in course chosen Cost of the course chosen with a discount of 10%

Learn italian the proper way!

Courses from 1 week to one year and more
Ages 14 to 99...
Abc School is centrally located in Florence, Italy

"Last spring I took a beginning Italian course at ABC Centro di Lingua e Cultura Italiana in Florence. I had a great time! (There are a few schools with similar names; ...) The total cost for one month, including two 2-hour courses daily and accommodation with an Italian couple came to about $800 US. This is less than I would have spent staying in hostels for that month.
The school has daily activities and weekend field trips around Tuscany. The teachers are knowledgeable and friendly and the school is located in a former palace near the Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio. Not many Americans seem to go there (I was one of two there out of about 60 students ), so this is a good chance to meet other students from around Europe."
Jicky — Bellingham, WA

In the heart of Florence, the ABC Center offers to their own students the avalaibility of partecipating at language, art and culture courses. The teachers at ABC Center are Florentines who are certified or have studied at Florence University. They have experience in teaching the Italian language to foreigners have apprenticed with experienced teachers at the center and are extremely friendly and welcoming. Listed below, is an example of how to spend your time at the ABC Center:   
1. A wide choice in Italian language courses.
2. Summer courses in Taormina.
3. Art and culture courses.
4. Afternoon seminars on current Italian issues.
5. Student Lounge.
6. Up to date information regarding cultural events, concerts, art shows, meeting places and economical shopping.
7. Guided tours of Florence, Tuscany and Italy.
8. Dinners, parties, visits to the countryside and to the sea group visits to the cinema and theatre.
9. Carefully selected accommodation.
10. Young and qualified teachers.
11. A reduced number of students per class (Max 7-10).
12. Low prices.
 
For many years the ABC Center has carried out research in the field of linguistics and didactics according to the Direct Teaching Method but the Center also takes into account the various existing trends in didactics exspecially regarding a solid grammatical base. The aim of this teaching method is oral and written communication and to achieve this there is a maximum of ten students per class.
 
This situation makes accurate and precise teaching possible where the students learn quickly and thoroughly. Two teachers lecture standard and intensive courses offering the students the opportunity of hearing different accents. The lessons and seminars take place exclusively in Italian. In order to place the students accurately in a class, there is an oral and a written test first.

The courses are divided into six levels and into two programs:

1. Formation

2. Specialization
The Formation Program is divided into three levels (elementary, middle and superior) and allows the students to reach the Threshold Level, i.e. the level of communicative competence according to the Modern Language Project of the Council of Europe. At the end of the program the students are able to express themselves correctly in Italian in written and in spoken form.

The Specialization Program is divided into three levels (Advanced 1, Advanced 2, and Advanced 3) and allows the students to have complete command of the language and a notable ability to express themselves In written and In spoken form.


Usually each level corresponds to a 4 week standard course.
It is possible to attend a course for a maximum of 24 weeks to complete the entire study program. Though some students decide to stay even longer...

  
   

Language Courses

STANDARD
A standard group course (20 lessons a week)
Classes focus on improving and developing your ability to communicate well in Italian in a variety of situations, practising in the four skills: Listening, Speaking, Writing and Reading.

STANDARD PLUS 3/5/10 INDIVIDUAL LESSONS A WEEK
Combine the advantages of small group tuition in the morning and the benefits of individual tuition (3- 5 - 10 lessons a week) in the afternoon for your precise language needs.

SPECIFIC
This group course allows the possibility to concentrate only on a specific part of the program, choosing between two daily lessons of grammar or conversation.

INDIVIDUAL COURSES
Structured to meet your precise linguistic and professional requirements.
Totally flexible (hours, contents, dates by arrangement).

TANDEM
The advantages of close individual attention, shared by two persons choosing to come together with a similar level of Italian.
Timetable, course duration, and starting dates by arrangement.
(Each lesson hour lasts 55 minutes)


Special Courses:

OTHER COURSES
Italian opera Singing
Graphic Illustration
Architecture Drawing and Perspective
Photography

OENOGASTRONOMICAL COURSES
Please, note that from this year we can organize also workshops in restaurants, wine cellars and wine shops, pizzerias, ice-cream labs, bars, confectioner's labs and so on.  Every students will learn directly, practising the choosen art.

ART COURSES
Drawing and Painting  
Ceramics: Throwing  
Majolica Decoration  
Drawing and painting  
Ceramics: Handbuilding  
Majolica Decoration  
Glass Soldering  
Modern Mosaic  
Glass Fusing  
Ceramics: Throwing and Handbuilding  
Sculpture  
Modern Mosaic  
Glass Soldering  
History of art and guided art-visits in Italian and in English are also available

JEWELLERY COURSES
Jewellery  
Wax Making  
Engraving  
Chasing  
Jewellery open work


LANGUAGE COURSES
CILS Certificazione d’Italiano Lingua Seconda  - Università per Stranieri di Siena. 
AIL Accademia Italiana di Lingua.  
CELI Universita’ per Stranieri di Perugia  For those students who wish to prepare for these exams we suggest:Standard plus 10 Individual lessons a week. Minimum 4 weeks.
COURSES FOR ADMISSION TO THE FOLLOWING ITALIAN UNIVERSITIES Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Natural Sciences, Architecture, Engineering, Economics, Law, Political Science, History of art, Philosophy, Psychology. Requisite: ability to express yourself in both verbal and written of Italian.
COURSE FOR THE PERFECTION OF THE ITALIAN LANGUAGE  Requisite: ability to express yourself in written and spoken form of Italian
COURSE FOR THE PREPARATION TO TEACH ITALIAN  Requisite: ability to express yourself in written and spoken form of Italian.
LITERATURE •HISTORY OF ART  
COMMERCIAL CORRESPONDENCE  
ITALIAN COOKING

 

The Courses

• Standard Courses - (S2, S3, S4)
4 hours a day (more than 3 students) / 3 hours a day (less than 4 students), from Monday to Friday, for a minimum of 2 weeks. Grammar and conversation lessons. In about six months time the student will complete the programme, which enable one to face the most varied communication functions.

• Intensive Courses - (I2, I3, I4)
Standard Course + 2 hours of individual lesson a day

• Extensive Courses - (E2, E3)
2 hours a day twice a week (E2) or three times a week (E3) for a minimum of 8 weeks (morning or evening).

• Individual Lessons - (I)
It is possible to begin the lessons any day of the year. Classes can also be held in other locations. Personalised courses are offered to companies and embassies. The course schedules are established with the secretary's office. (10% discount on 30 lessons booked and paid in advance). Preparatory lessons for (FOR C.I.L.S EXAM (Università per Stranieri di Siena) – IT (Università di Roma Tre).

• Conversation Courses (C.C.)
Upon request of minimum 4 students. 2/4 hours per week. Lessons are held on Saturday morning or one afternoon a week. Current events, Italian culture and lifestyle or other topics of interest will be examined during the lessons.

• Special Courses (S.C.)
At the request of at least 4 students, 16 hours a month. The supplementary cultural seminars are offered in the afternoon. A good knowledge of the Italian language is requested:
- Italian Art history (including guided tours in Rome)
- Italian for business (specific business terminology, commercial correspondence, contracts etc.)
- Italian Literature

• Italian Opera singing and music
Individual or mini-groups lessons including breathing technique and voice exercises, singing practice using excerpts from famous Italian operas. Prices and schedule can be obtained from the secretary’s office.

• Cooking Courses (not professional)
Lessons are held in a typical Roman restaurant (trattoria), 3/4 hours of theory/practice (with a professional cook) in private residence with Italian mother tongue teachers. Typical recips, terminology and idioms are used in the kitchen for conversation and eating together. Small groups, (one Sunday per month), upon reservation. For information on prices and schedule ask to the Secretary’s Office.

• Vacation Courses in Tuscany -CETONA
A delightful medieval village in the countryside of Siena. Intensive one-to-one or group week-end courses, in days to be agreed. Further information available in the secretary office. Painting coruses. Beginners and Advanced Courses.

• CLASSES
The students will study in small groups of 3/12 people of different nationalities with similar language levels. The small size of the classes guarantees individual attention as well as high quality of teaching.

The Lorenzo de Medici school, which opened its doors in 1973, was one of the very first in Florence to specialize in the teaching of Italian as a foreign language. The school is situated in the San Lorenzo quarter in the heart of the old part of the city, just a few steps away from the Medici Chapels and the famed central market area.

Housed in a former convent dating back to the medieval period (the adjacent thirteenth century church of San Jacopo Corbolini is integrated into the complex) the school underwent extensive renovation and today provides a wide range of modern conveniences such as a cafeteria, air-conditioning, reading rooms and an attractive courtyard garden.

The school-whose students come from all age groups and from all over the world- guarantees a high quality in teaching and in the services provided.

OUR METHOD

In line with the most up-to-date theories on Italian language teaching, our method aims at a harmonious development of all four linguistic skills: listening and speaking, reading and writing.


The small number of students per class and the varied teaching techniques enable each student to be an active participant in the learning process. The language is always presented in context with the student immediately putting into practice what has been studied.
 
 
The school provides, free of charge, a pack of course materials which is frequently updated. Preference is given to original and stimulating material that is aimed not only at improving language skills but also permits the student to learn more about Italian culture and present day Italy.
 
The teachers hold University degrees and have specialized experience in the teaching of Italian language and culture to foreigners.
They attend monthly teacher training seminars. 

 
LEVELS

Each type of course is offered in seven levels and 4 weeks are needed to complete a level. Absolute beginners can only start their classes on the first day of the course (see dates). Non beginners can start the course at the beginning of each week. The most appropriate level is selected through a placement test.


A more detailed description of levels is available on request.


Beginning: 
Will be able to interact in simple daily situations: at the cafè, restaurant, hotel, shops, railway stations, in the street. Will know how to introduce themselves and talk about themselves, to invite others to do something and to reply to an invitation. To ask for, and to give, information on people, places, services, articles to buy. Acquisition of the basic structures of the language through the use of the present and present perfect of the most commonly used verbs; article-adjective-noun agreement, direct and possessive pronouns.


Intermediate 1:
Will be able to deal with daily situations such as at the gym, real estate and travel agencies etc. understanding the gist of information given. Ability to talk and write about personal habits and experiences through the correct use of the present, past and imperfect tenses. Will be able to describe, in simple terms, places, surroundings and people. Will be able to speak about personal plans and make promises using the future tense. Ability to express hopes and wishes by using the conditional. Will be able to give and follow instructions, advice and commands through the use of the imperative.


Intermediate 2:
Will be able to deal with more complex daily situations: at the doctor, at the pharmacy, on the telephone, at a job interview. Will be able to take part spontaneously in conversations on familiar or daily matters. Will be able to relate the plot of a movie or tell a story while at the same time expressing opinions and points of view by using the present subjunctive. Ability to describe in detail places and objects by using relative pronouns and making comparisons. Will be able to comprehend short articles and literary texts where the passato remoto is used.


Intermediate 3:
Will be able to deal with more complex daily situations: at the bank, hotel, the box office. Will be able to conjecture opinions with the use of grammatical structures such as the subjunctive and "if" clauses. Ability to argue personally held opinions, ideas, preferences. Will be able to understand without too much effort the significant points of short literary texts and articles even when expressed in complex forms such as the passive, impersonal and implicit. Will be able to understand the gist of radio and TV shows.


Advanced 1:
Will be able to recount and write about events, personal experiences, traditions and habits using quite complex grammatical patterns such as subordination, tense agreement and indirect speech. A broadening of vocabulary will allow a very good understanding of literary prose as well as articles and news reports on current events. Will be able to follow without too much effort movies and radio and TV programs in standard Italian. Would be able to work or study in an Italian environment.


Advanced 2:
Will be able to interact with native speakers, orally or in writing, in any given situation whether it be formal or informal. Ability to discuss and express personal ideas including in an academic or professional context - in an elegant and well articulated manner through the use of forms of the subjunctive, "if" clauses and the passive voice. Ability to read a wide range of texts making distinctions between different styles of writing. Will be able to understand without difficulty TV and radio shows and movies.

Mastery:
Will be able to write fluently using correct grammar, sentence construction and the appropriate linguistic register. Will have acquired a wide vocabulary with specific application to specialized area such as Italian bureaucracy, youth culture and the field of medicine. Will be able to understand movies and TV programs even when idiomatic Italian, regional accents and slang expressions are used. Will be able to understand works of literature in both form and content.

According to the Common European Reference Levels -European Language Portfolio - our levels correspond as follows:

EUROPEAN LANGUAGE PORTFOLIO / LORENZO DE' MEDICI
A1  Beginner
A2  Intermediate 1
B1  Intermediate 2 / Intermediate 3
B2  Advanced 1
C1  Advanced 2 
C2  Mastery

 

FLORENCE


Espresso 4 is a group course consisting of 4 hours a day, 9.00am to 12.40pm, Monday through Friday. The appropriate level for each student will be determined by a placement test upon arrival. In case the student is an absolute beginner, he/she should start classes on the first Monday of the academic month.

Espresso 2 is a group course (only held in summer) consisting of 2 hours a day, from 2.10pm to 3.50pm, Monday through Friday. There are six levels, each of which takes 4 weeks to be completed. Upon arrival students will take a placement test.

Combination: In addition to the afore-mentioned courses, students who prefer takin