LINGUA IT is an institute that specialises in teaching Italian to foreigners. The school’s primary objective is to immerse students in the real language and culture of Italy. Studying Italian in Italy brings with it the unique opportunity to listen, speak and live the actual language, using the native terms and expressions as they are used by Italians. Using mass media and a variety of other textual stimuli, the teachers at LINGUA IT combine the best possible teaching methods with an active immersion in Italian culture to give students a total exposure to the Italian language.
The school is located in the historical centre of Verona just a few steps away from the Arena and the most important monuments of the city. LINGUA IT is close to all services and is easily reached by public transport. The staff will be able to give you all the information you need to reach the premises in the quickest and easiest way.
TEACHING METHODOLOGY - Methodology
The teaching methodology employed at LINGUA IT is based on the most current educational techniques and texts available. Finely tuned to meet the specific needs and interests of different classes and students, each language course focuses simultaneously on the four components on which all language is built: oral expression and comprehension (speaking and listening) and written expression and comprehension (writing and reading). In addition to traditional grammar instruction and speaking exercises where focus is given to the linguistic form and characteristics of Italian, students are encouraged to participate in less structured activities that promote spontaneous, sub-conscious learning, developing communication skills in a natural and instinctive manner. In a relaxed and informal environment, over an extended period of time, students at LINGUA IT quickly improve and loose their fear of speaking a new language, frequently surprising themselves with the speed at which they become competent and confident with Italian. The teaching method adopted at the school encourages active class participation and interaction by all students. Always grouped with others of a similar skill level, students need not be fearful of class participation. After a day at the school, students invariably relax into the routine of lessons and find the presence of other students a help rather than a hindrance to the learning process. Outside the regular morning classes, students of different levels are brought together for the optional cultural courses (guided tours, lectures on art and history, cooking courses etc). The naturally informal nature of these events makes the merging of different levels comfortable and easy and benefits both beginners and advanced students alike.
Teaching Resources
The aim of each language course is to teach students the Italian language as it is used naturally, in real life situations. LINGUA IT utilises a variety of resources (written texts, audio and video stock, newspaper articles, images, music and didactic games) to meet this end.
Well aware that foreign language textbooks and schools often teach a version of a language that is outmoded or rarely used by the native speakers of the country, the teachers at LINGUA IT have compiled a specialised and comprehensive assortment of teaching materials and learning aids that use real-world linguistic examples. The use of play excerpts, television and radio programs, advertisements, literary passages, song lyrics, greeting cards, dialogues of telephone conversations, newspaper and magazine articles, government forms, diary entries, comics, letters and reviews (just to name a few), ensures that students will be exposed to the real language of Italy, as it is used in both formal and informal contexts.
The variety of topics explored in both the texts and conversations at LINGUA IT (ranging from basic introductory skills to the exploration of complex theoretical and philosophic ideas), address an array of linguistic demands. By immersing students in a variety of real-life situations, they are given the confidence and skills they need to effectively participate and interact in the Italy of today.
Course Levels
At the beginning of each language course, students (beginners excluded) are given a short test to evaluate their competence and determine which level they are best suited to. At the conclusion of each course level, students sit a final test. The results are evaluated and used to determine whether the student is ready to proceed onto the next course level. The language courses are divided into five levels (plus an additional sixth level for those who want to perfect their proficiency) with a maximum number of eight students per class and a minimum number of three.
Beginners:
In the Beginners Level, students learn basic communication skills clearly geared for the everyday. A strong grammar base is introduced and the vocabulary taught is simple but precise.
Elementary:
Students of the Elementary Level actively participate in conversation structured around general issues and topics. In this course, solid focus is given to the correct employment of various grammatical principles and rules and students develop a comprehensive and broad vocabulary.
Intermediate:
Through discussion and textual analysis, students in the Intermediate Level explore a range of complicated themes and ideas, gaining a strong command of the Italian language and a deeper understanding of both grammatical and linguistic elements. In this course, students are exposed to the language of the mass media and the variable nature of Italian as it is affected by intonation and different contexts within Italian society.
Post-Intermediate:
This course is dedicated to perfecting students’ communication skills and equipping them with an understanding of the nuances that make up a thorough knowledge of Italian. In the Post-Intermediate Course, students are taught the correct usage of colloquialisms and idiomatic expressions and are also exposed to some of the more complex structures of the Italian language.
Advanced:
In this course students practice using Italian naturally and competently in all conceivable life situations. Embracing the spectrum of scenarios from everyday interaction (including communication in the work environment) to the use of Italian in the discussion of highly complicated themes and ideas, pupils of the Advanced Level secure a full and comprehensive mastery of all the grammatical and syntactical structures of the Italian language. This level also equips students with the skills necessary to competently construct a variety of written documents.
Proficiency Perfection:
At this level, students already have a strong mastery of the Italian language. The Proficiency Perfection Course is devoted to fine-tuning students’ syntax and manner of expression through participation in discussion groups dedicated to a variety of topics. This course also aims to enrich and embellish vocabulary and improve students’ written and oral expression as well as perfecting their ability to communicate in a rapid and precise manner. Students are guided through specialised texts, documents and a variety of essays on varying topics with the aim of exposing them to the specific details, style and vocabulary employed in each and the reasons why.
Language Courses
STANDARD LANGUAGE COURSES - (LS)
Classes in all Standard Language Courses are held from 9.00am to 1.00pm Mondays to Friday. The four hours are split into four lessons of 55 minutes each: two lessons back-to-back followed by a 20-minute break and then another two lessons back-to-back. On Tuesday afternoons, the Art History teacher accompanies all students who wish to attend on a free tour of Verona, focusing on different aspects of the city’s art, architecture and history each week. On the first day of school all students (beginners excluded) sit a short test to ascertain which course level is most appropriate for them to join. Students also take a test at the completion of each language course level to evaluate their progress and determine whether they are ready to move on to the succeeding level. There are six standard language course levels.
The maximum number of students in any class is eight while a minimum requirement of three pupils is needed to activate the course.
TANDEM LANGUAGE COURSES - (LT)
LINGUA IT offers a Tandem Language Course for two people travelling together who would prefer personalised lessons (two students only) to larger group classes. These courses are significantly cheaper than private lesson. The classes run for three hours each day for a total of 15 hours per week. Students sit an entrance test (voluntary for beginners) to ascertain their skills and also sit a final test at the completion of the course to evaluate their progress. On Tuesday afternoons students of the Tandem Language Course are invited to join other students on the free, guided Art History tours of Verona.
SPECIAL WEEKEND COURSES - (LW)
Taking a weekend in Verona? If you are travelling with another person LINGUA IT gives you the opportunity to learn Italian in short, intensive weekend courses that you can continue (either regularly or sporadically) throughout the year. Each weekend course comprises twelve hours of classes spread over Saturday and Sunday.
PRIVATE LESSONS - (LI)
LINGUA IT recommends private lessons for those students with time constraints or special needs and requirements. With the teacher at your complete disposal, private lessons are an effective way to study in-depth, all the linguistic and grammatical aspects of Italian.
Private Lessons (55 minutes) LI
1 hour € 30
10 hours € 290
20 hours € 540
50 hours € 1250
The course prices listed below include all textbooks and other didactic materials used, the initial and final evaluative tests and IVA (tax). All prices are per person in Euro (€) unless otherwise specified.
FORIEGN RESIDENTS COURSES - (LR)
The Foreign Residents’ Course is designed for those who live in Verona (or the surrounding region) and want to study Italian language and grammar in depth, on an on-going basis. This course, offered at all levels to meet the varying needs of different students, comprises two weekly lessons (totalling 3 hours per week) held on afternoons or evenings.
The minimum number of students for a level to be activated is three.
PREPARATION COURSE FOR THE CILS EXAMS (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera) OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SIENA
These courses are run twice weekly on afternoons or evenings, for a total of four hours per week. These courses are also open to those students attending one of the Standard Language Courses who would like to sit the CILS examinations.
PREPARATION COURSE FOR STUDY IN ITALIAN UNIVERSITIES
This course is designed for foreigners who want to study in an Italian University. Course structure, layout and costs depend on the requirements of the individual student/s.
UNIVERSITY AND SCHOOL GROUPS
LINGUA IT organises special Italian language and culture courses for scholastic and University groups. Course programs, times and fees are determined by the requirements of the group.
COMPANIES
LINGUA IT offers Italian language and culture courses for businesses, on application. Lessons can be conducted near the institute or on the applicant’s premises. Course programs, times and fees are determined by the requirements of the individual or group.
CULTURAL COURSES
LINGUA IT well understands the importance of alternative (less structured) methods of learning when studying a new language. To that end, the school encourages its pupils to participate in a wide range of cultural courses that promote language learning by developing communication skills in a natural and instinctive manner. Teachers, well-versed and fully-qualified in their chosen field, guide students through the many wonders, secrets and beauties of Italy’s history and culture, offering rich insight into both Italian life and the Italian language. The staff at LINGUA IT encourage hands-on, active participation by all pupils not only to keep the dynamic of the class fresh and interesting but also to advance students’ linguistic skills. Each Cultural Course is fluid and tailored specifically to meet the interests and requirements of different students groups. Classes are conducted twice weekly in the afternoons and run for one-and-a-half-hours each (two hours each for the Cinema Course).
A minimum number of three students is required to activate any Cultural Course. The price of each Cultural Course includes all materials and equipment used but excludes the cost of theatre, cinema and opera tickets.
ITALIAN ART HISTORY COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
Italy is the largest living ‘museum’ in the world. Students of the Italian Art History Course are given the opportunity to step inside this museum and explore the infinite number of treasures it contains. Through the Romanesque and Gothic periods to the rich Renaissance and Baroque eras, students examine some of the greatest artworks of the western world and meet such celebrated masters as Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Piero della Francesca, Mantegna, Caravaggio as well as many others. In this course, particular focus is given to the Italian Renaissance, the art and architecture of Verona, the genius works of Andrea Palladio and the flourishing art of Venice. The Italian Art History Course comprises lectures, discussions, audio-visual displays and is also supplemented by guided day tours and weekend excursions (including weekend trips) that will scheduled during the course.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Italian Art History Courses for those with specific interests such as art historians, university students, or those working on a PhD in art history.
ITALIAN HISTORY COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
The Italian History Course covers in detail the broad history of Italy: the facts, oddities, anecdotes and famous people that have made the country’s history so rich and fascinating. The lectures span from the story of the foundation of Rome to the Italy of today, paying particular attention to modern history: the unification of Italy, World War I, Mussolini and the Fascists, Word War II and the establishment of the Italian Republic. A comprehensive and fascinating collection of historical artefacts (photographs, maps, political documents, newsreel footage and films) are used to colour the lectures.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Italian History Courses for those with specific interests such as historians, university students, or those working on a PhD in history.
ITALIAN LITERATURE COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
The Italian Literature Course examines some of the most significant works in Italian literature, paying particular attention to those that have had a strong influence on the development and nature of the language. Rather than giving a broad overview of all of Italian literature, this course investigates in-depth a few select texts, focusing on the defining characteristics of particular authors and the periods in which they wrote. During this series of classes students will be encouraged to analyse and discuss the texts in a group forum. The course program is fluid and will be determined at the commencement of each Italian Literature Course, based on the specific interests and requirements of the students.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Italian Literature Courses for those with specific interests such as writers, university students or those working on a PhD in Italian literature.
ITALIAN THEATRE COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
Theatre is a gateway into the society and times in which it was written and produced. The Italian Theatre Course explores, in-depth, the various playwrights, stylistic periods and texts that have had a significant impact on Italian theatre.
This course involves a comprehensive historical overview of Italian theatre and its protagonists, analysis of various significant plays (both modern and classical), audio-visual expositions as well as excursions to see live theatrical performances in Verona and other major cites. Please note that theatre tickets are not included in the course price.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Italian Theatre Courses for those with specific interests such as people involved in the performing arts, university students or those working on a PhD in Italian theatre.
ITALIAN CINEMA COURSE
(This course is open to students of all language levels)
This course, which begins with a lively introduction to the history and key players of Italian cinema, can take one of two paths (depending on the preferences and interests of the students). The class can either elect to explore a specific theme in Italian cinema across a collection of periods, cinematic styles and films. Or, they may prefer to examine in-depth, the filmography of one particular Italian director or actor. Both versions of the Italian Cinema Course comprise screenings of both classic and contemporary films and include lectures and group discussions.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Italian Cinema Courses for those with specific interests such as people involved in the performing arts, university students or those working on a PhD in cinema.
ITALIAN CUSTOMS AND SOCIETY COURSE
(This course is open to students of all language levels)
The Italian Customs and Society Course is a fascinating examination of the tastes, trends, passions, modes of thinking, stereotypes, idiomatic expressions and concerns (both old and new) that characterise Italy and its people. A fun and animated series of lectures and discussions, this course aims to portray what it means to be Italian from an Italian’s point of view, comparing this with foreign impressions of Italy and Italians.
ITALIAN FASHION AND STYLE
(The course is recommended to those of all Italian language abilities)
This course explores the phenomenon that is Italian fashion, its place in Italian society and culture and its effect on style throughout the world. Lessons alternate between the study of specific labels and designers to more general classes on the fashion styles of today, the influence (both social and economic) of Italian fashion on the world as well as exploring the immediate statement made by the clothes you wear. It is an enjoyable and entertaining way of learning the Italian language and grants insights into the modern culture and society of Italy.
ITALIAN OPERA COURSE
(This course is open to students of all language levels)
This course offers those with a passion for music the opportunity to study the scores, libretti and composers of Italian opera - a genre in which Italy is unsurpassed on the world stage. With the annual outdoor opera festival held at Verona’s Roman amphitheatre every year, students of the Italian Opera Course have a unique opportunity to experience one of the most memorable theatrical events in the world. During the lessons, students will be given ample opportunity to explore and discuss the themes and musical styles that characterise Italian opera and then, in the summer months, they can savour the magic and charm of watching a performance under the Veronese stars with 20,000 other opera-enthusiasts. For those interested, an alternative course on The History of Italian Music is also available, offering a comprehensive overview and insight into Italy’s rich musical history. Please note that opera tickets are not included in the course price.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Italian Opera Courses for those with specific interests such as people involved in the performing arts, music students or those working on a PhD in music or music history.
LATIN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
The Roman culture and its language provide an inexhaustible well from which the language and culture of modern Italy is drawn. The Latin Language and Culture Course therefore, is a useful and fascinating way for students to gain greater understanding of Italian. Examining the base grammar, etymology and principle themes of select examples of Latin poetry and literature, students will see first-hand the roots of the Italian language and how, over the ages, it has transformed into its present form.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Latin Language and Culture Courses for those with specific interests such as Latin students or those working on a PhD in Latin language and Literature.
ANCIENT GREEK LANGUAGE AND CULTURE COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
The ancient Greek world lives on in the language and mentality of the modern western world. Students of this course study the ancient Greek alphabet, grammar and vocabulary as well as the key elements of Ancient Greece’s history and culture. The Ancient Greek Language and Culture Course elucidates the links between present day western culture and language and the ancient culture and language of the Greeks.
* LINGUA IT can also arrange special tailored (group or private) Ancient Greek Language and Culture Courses for those with specific interests such as ancient Greek culture and language students or those working on a PhD in Ancient Greek history or language.
SPECIALIST COURSES
LINGUA IT organises specialist language courses for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian, who wish to refine their language skills for particular professional or social sectors. Specialist Course programs and teaching methods will be designed around the specific needs and interests of students. The Specialist Courses demand a high-level of interaction between teacher and pupil and will only be run with a minimum number of three students.
These courses are held on two afternoons each week for a total number of 3 hours per week.
Specialist Courses CS
ITALIAN BUSINESS LANGUAGE COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
This course is designed for foreign students, executives, managers and professionals who have some knowledge of Italian but would like to better understand the language and processes used in Italian business and the workplace.
The course covers the compilation of an Italian Curriculum Vitae (CV), the standard terminology and conduct encountered in job interviews, the presentation and description of projects and products, the logistics of business travel arrangements, commercial correspondence and legal jargon. The Italian Business Language Course also provides students with an introductory overview of Italian economics and legislation.
ITALIAN LEGAL SYSTEM COURSE
(This course is recommended for those with an intermediate or advanced knowledge of Italian)
This course provides students with a broad overview of the Italian legal system, the structure of the Italian constitution and the jargon used in both. Through comprehensive document analysis and composition, students will gain a better understanding of Italian legal language (both written and spoken) and be able to communicate competently and confidently using legal terminology.
ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE
(This course is open to students of all language levels)
This course teaches students the language and jargon they need to better work with Italian-based computers and software. Students are taken on a guided tour of the most popular Italian-version software, the principal national ISPs (Internet Service Providers), the key search engines used in Italy as well as myriad web sites. Throughout, participants will be exposed to the gamut of Italian computer-science terminology as well as the specifics of Italian telematics.
ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE FOR TOURISM
(This course is open to students of all language levels)
This language course is dedicated to teaching students how to communicate correctly and effectively in the world of tourism. Designed for those currently working in the industry who would like to develop and polish their language skills, the Italian Language Course for Tourism teaches students everything that needs to be said… and not said.
Covering a spectrum of tourism-related scenarios (dealing with hotels, organising public and private transport companies, making bookings at travel agents, restaurants and hotels etc.), students are encouraged to actively participate in this class through role-play, fax and letter composition, making ‘dummy’ bookings and reservations, and writing and reading brochures.
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