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

 

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.

Eurocentres is a Swiss Foundation which was established in 1948 to help people to learn easily how to communicate in different languages. At present Eurocentres teaches in 18 locations around Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and Japan. About 13'000 students annually study one of the world's most important languages at Eurocentres: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian or Japanese.

Over 40 successful years of first class language teaching

1948 - The first Eurocentres school is established.
Mr. Erhard Waespi opens his first foreign language school in Bournemouth. More are to follow.
1959 - Migros takes over.
Gottlieb Duttweiler, founder of the Migros Cooperative, meets Erhard Waespi and agrees to cooperate in the field of international cultural exchange.
1960 - The school becomes a Foundation.
Mr. Gottlieb Duttweiler creates the Foundation of «European Languages and Development Centres». Eurocentres evolves into a standard-bearer.
1960 to 1993 - Eurocentres grows and sets standards.
Eurocentres schools are founded in locations throughout the world. Eurocentres establishes itself as a trendsetter in the field of foreign language learning and lends valuable impetus to the entire organisation.
2003 - Quality proves itself as the key criterion for worldwide success


Dedicated to quality, not profit.

The Swiss Eurocentres Foundation has been a consultant to the Council of Europe for language learning since 1968 and has played a crucial role in the development of the Common European Framework of Reference for language teaching and learning.
As a Foundation Eurocentres has since 1960 provided top quality language teaching and aims to contribute towards a better understanding among people everywhere by helping to bridge national, cultural and social barriers.

Guaranteed Quality!

Quality is our primary concern, and we tell you exactly what you can expect from us.

Learning success thanks to innovative course programmes
Careful selection and regular checks of host families
Two to three qualified teachers per class
Small classes (from 6 to 13 participants)
Accurate placement within individual classes as a result of spoken and written placement tests
First class school buildings in a Renaissance Palace
Quality control through regular internal checks, plus regular inspection from the international quality organization EAQUALS

The School in Florence

The Eurocentres school, the oldest state-recognized school of foreign languages in Florence, can be found in Palazzo Guadagni, a Renaissance palace dating from the 16th century, and is located in the middle of the old town centre near the Ponte Vecchio. The historic school building, renovated in 1992, has eleven classrooms, a multimedia learning centre, a lecture room and a student lounge and is in a quaint Italian quarter.


The school is in the centre of the oldest part of Florence, 300 m from the Pitti Palace, 500 m from the Ponte Vecchio and about 15 minutes' walk from the cathedral (il Duomo) and from the railway station. There is a bus stop 200 m from the school and practically all buses stop at the cathedral.

The building is the work of the architect Cronaca and was built between 1502 and 1508. In the 1860's, it was extensively improved by the architect Poggi with the addition of beautiful frescoes. The school was completely renovated, taking care to enhance the original features but also making use of the best of modern Italian design to produce a stunning mix of new and old.

Our motto is:
Your study objective is of paramount importance

Our mission is to set you on the path of successful learning. We create a learning environment which leads you to your personal study objective and offers you a quality learning experience. Our methods are tried and tested and new teaching methodologies and the latest technical facilities are used by Eurocentres wherever possible. Moreover, we employ only teachers with the highest standard of education who teach exclusively in their mother tongue.
We place great emphasis on close consultation, which ensures that you select the most suitable course based on your personal requirements. We collaborate exclusively with representatives who can guarantee excellent and comprehensive advice.
 
 Our programmes are structured in such a way that you will quickly absorb the culture and get to know the people of your host country. The international nature of our schools, with students from many countries of the world, offers opportunities for enriching intercultural encounters.

Methodology

The teaching of real language for a real purpose in an action-oriented approach is at the heart of Eurocentres methodology.
We teach the language you need to communicate in real life. You do exercises to improve your fluency and your accuracy. And then we provide activities which require real communication. We pay very careful attention to the degrees of control in the practice leading from initial presentation of new language towards realistic communicative use of that language. Working in the other direction, we use communicative activities to identify your need for practice in accuracy or in fluency.
 

 


 

Basic Course (20 lessons per week)
Eurocentres Levels 0 to 9. Have your classes in the morning in order to organise your own programme in the afternoon.

Specialised Intensive (25 lessons/week)
Learn the language at an accelerated pace with a programme of optimum intensity, which still leaves you some afternoons free. Eurocentres Levels 0 to 9.

Survival Italian (15 lessons/week)
The ideal course for travellers who want to make their way in Italy.

Individual Courses
Upon request. 50 EUR per hour. A module consists of five individual 50 minute lessons per week, and it is attractively priced; 5 lessons for the price of 4 (Eur 200). The module can be booked in addition to all courses or separately.

Students can integrate their course with the Learning Centre activities.

Academic Year /Semester Programmes
(20 or 25 lessons/week)
Courses are based on a standard year of four terms.
The following start dates are available to students of all levels:
7 January, 4 Feruary, 31 March, 30 June, 28 July, 22 September, 20 October

Teacher Refresher Course (25 lessons/week)
2 weeks. Eurocentres Levels 7-10. 14 July 2008.
Are you a language teacher looking for new teaching ideas? Eurocentres is in the forefront of the development of the communicative methodologies and learner centred approaches. Come and benefit from our know-how.

CELI Examination Preparation
Extra if sufficient interest. Eurocentres Florence offers preparation courses for the CELI (Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana - Università di Perugia) examinations.
1 Mar 2008: CELI 1, CELI 2, CELI 3
23 Jun 2008: CELI 1, CELI 2, CELI 3, CELI 4, CELI 5
30 Jun 2008: CIC Intermediate and Advanced
10 Nov 2008: CELI 1, CELI 2, CELI 3, CELI 4, CELI 5

Art History (5 lessons/week)
4-12 weeks, or more.
Learn the language and enjoy the Art History lessons and the guided visits to the Renaissance art places of Florence. Eurocentres Levels: 3 to 9.
Euro 70 per week.

Drawing and Painting (5 lessons/week)
4-12 weeks, or more.
Students learn the basic techniques of drawing and painting including free-hand drawing, chiaroscuro, pencil drawing, wash drawing. Depending on level the course will cover: copies of famous masterpieces, life-size drawing/painting (still-life). Eurocentres Levels: 3 to 9. (See Drawing and Painting Course programme).
Euro 70 per week.

Fashion Design (5 lessons/week)
4-12 weeks.
In the morning you learn the language and in the afternoon you discover the secrets of Italian fashion design. Eurocentres Levels: 3 to 9. (See Fashion Design Course programme).
Euro 70 per week.

Cucina Italiana (6 lessons/week)
4-8 weeks.
A program combining morning language instruction with afternoon culinary and cultural activities. Eurocentres Levels: 3 to 9.
Euro 70 per week.

Catering (6 lessons/week)
4-12 weeks, or more.
Lessons for anyone who is interested in learning the key skills for mastering Italian cooking. According to the course length, students will acquire the technical and theoretical knowledge to be able to work in the catering sector.
Maximum 6 students per class. Eurocentres Levels: 3 to 9.
Euro 225 per week.

THE SCHOOL

Founded in 1977, we have years of experience and specialise in teaching Italian in Italy
All the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci schools are located in the city center
Professional and young teachers all of whom have studied at the University level and who have been specially trained in teaching Italian to foreigners
Members of ASILS (Associaton of language schools of Italian as a second foreign language)
Italian at every level, all year round, Small study groups
Courses start every 2 weeks (including beginners)
After 3 or 6 months the AIL-exam "Firenze" (Accademia Italiana di Lingua) DELI/DILI/DALI/DALC can be taken
A whole range of activities offered for students to gain insight into the Italian culture
Variety of students from over 50 countries study at the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci schools
Friendly and helpful staff that give personal attention to each student
Equipped for handicapped students

TEACHING METHOD

Our Teaching method takes full account of modern didactics and is oriented towards the "Foreign Language Concept of the Council of Europe" and the "Guidelines of the Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL)".

The Leonardo da Vinci schools teach according to the Direct Method: from the first day on, at all levels, only Italian will be spoken.

We emphasize the spoken language and live language. Continually stressing the use of verbal communication permits you to learn Italian "naturally", to unite theory and practice easily and to increase your knowledge quickly and with confidence. The structure of the language and its practical application is very important. Advanced courses also practice the written language.

Our teaching staff consists of young teams of experienced language teachers, all of whom studied at University and who have been specially trained in teaching Italian to foreigners.

Most of the teaching material has been developed by our schools and is excellently suited to the needs and requirements of the students. Thanks to a permanent work group the didactic material is continuously updated and adapted to the newest research on teaching languages to foreigners.

But learning Italian does not consist, for us at the Leonardo da Vinci schools, in just teaching grammar and vocabulary. We want to allow our students to gain insight into the Italian way of living and thinking. That is why we offer, in addition to the language courses, a whole range of italian culture extracurricular activities for our students.


FIRST SCHOOL DAY

On the first school day there is an entry test (written and oral), testing the student's knowledge of the Italian language.
Beginners will join a pilot course which is aimed to divide complete beginners from students with a little knowledge of the Italian language.

LEVELS OF ABILITY

Our schools offer courses on 6 monthly ability levels (subdivided on 12 ability levels ot two weeks, each), following the Assessment Grid of the European Language Portfolio (ELP), based on the assessment grid of Schneider/North.
 
DIDACTIC PROGRAM
(according to the level)

Intensive grammar study
Phonetics Development of vocabulary
Syntax and application
Listening and comprehension
Dialogue and communication
Situation method Idiomatic and phraseology
Written and oral comprehension
Lecture and analysis
Live guided discussion and synthesis
Free conversation
NOTA BENE

Teaching Material: Text books and supplies are provided by the school and is already included in the price of the course. You are expected to bring your own dictionary.
Minimum Admission Age: The minimum age for participants is 16.
Course Dates: In our calendar we specify the course dates, the public holidays and the days off for group language courses and courses in Italian culture.
Certificate of Attendance: On request, all students receive a Certificate of Attendance.
Lessons: The duration of each lesson is 45 minutes.

STANDARD ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE

	Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 12 weeks Lessons: 4 per day, 20 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates: please click here Prices: please click here Course schedule: please click here
The Standard Course is held throughout the year on 6 (monthly) levels of ability. Duration: 2 to 24 weeks. The 4 lessons are held daily from Monday to Friday, usually beginning at 9am. If there are many participants the Standard Course may also be held in the afternoon at 2pm. There is a maximum of 12 students in each class. ^top

INTENSIVE ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE - FLORENCE and ROME

	Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 24 weeks Lessons: 6 per day, 30 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates: please click here Prices: please click here Course schedule: please click here
The Intensive Course consists of 4 lessons Standard Course per day in the morning and 2 extra lessons of group language course in the afternoon. In the afternoon session students have the opportunity to increase their knowledge with practice in speaking and conversing. This course is held only in Florence and Rome. ^top

INTENSIVE ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE "PLUS" 5 & 10

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 24 weeks Lessons: 4 lessons of group language course plus 1 or 2 lessons of private tuition per day, 25 or 30 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in the group language course; 1 participant in the private lessons Dates: please click here Prices Plus-5: please click here Prices Plus-10: please click here Course schedule: please click here

The Intensive Plus Course consists of the Standard Course Plus additional private lessons (one-to-one). The individual lessons are specifically designed for your specific needs. We offer two kinds of Intensive Plus Courses: Intensive Plus-5 Course: 20 lessons of Standard Course and additional 5 private lessons per week; Intensive Plus-10 Course: 20 lessons of Standard Course and additional 10 private lessons per week. ^top

SMALL GROUP INTENSIVE ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE
(FLORENCE and ROME)

	Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 12 weeks Lessons: 6 per day, 30 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: small groups of 2 to 5 participants Dates: please click here Prices: please click here
For students who want to learn quickly and intensively in a small group, or wish to increase their knowledge, the Small Group Intensive Course is tailor-made for their needs. Together with no more than 5 participants they will have 6 hours of daily intensive language course. The Small Group Intensive Course is held only in Florence and Rome. ^top

“PART TIME TWICE AND THRICE A WEEK” STANDARD COURSE
(ONLY MILAN)

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 8 weeks - prolongable Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates and prices: Part Time twice a week Dates and prices: Part Time thrice a week

If you want to learn or improve your Italian, but you don’t have time for a daily course, we offer you the possibility to attend “Part-Time” courses for two or three times a week. This evening course is especially recommended for those who already live, study or work in Milan. The courses are held throughout the year on six monthly ability levels. The minimum duration of each course is 8 weeks. PART-TIME TWICE A WEEK: Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 8 weeks - extendable Lessons: 2 lessons per evening, 4 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates and prices: Part Time twice a week Course schedule: held on Tuesday and Thursday evening PART-TIME THRICE A WEEK: Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 8 weeks - extendable Lessons: 2 lessons per evening, 6 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates and prices: Part Time thrice a week Course schedule: held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening ^top

ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE COURSE "ITALY TODAY"

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: 2 or 4 weeks Lessons: 50 in two weeks Tuition: from the 3rd ability level on Class size: minimum 4 participants for the cultural part Dates: please click here Prices: please click here

For students who want to learn Italian and at the same time become acquainted with the culture and history and the current social and political situation of their host country, we suggest to choose the "Italy Today" Course. In addition to the 4 lessons Standard Course in the morning, in the afternoon they will be introduced to art and culture, history and folklore, press and films as well as the current political and economic situation of Italy. The cultural part of this course consists of 10 supplementary lessons in two weeks. ^top

LONG-TERM STANDARD COURSE

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 12 weeks Lessons: 4 per day, 20 per week Level: all 6 ability levels Extras: special long-term discount; study in different cities Dates: please click here Prices: please click here

Students wishing to study Italian for longer periods are especially welcome at our schools and receive special care and attention from our staff, as well as benefiting from our long-term discounted prices. With this course, students profit from all the advantages of learning a language in the country where it is spoken. Through our experience in teaching the Italian language, we know that the ideal minimum stay for a course is 12 weeks. Not only you will have more confidence in your language skills, but instead of feeling like you are on holiday, you will be completely immersed in the Italian culture and way of life. Many of our long-term students are preparing to enter university or rounding off their Italian Long-Term Standard Course with the recognised AIL "Firenze" examination. ^top

LONG-TERM SEMESTER COURSE

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 24 weeks Lessons: 4 per day, 20 per week Level: all 6 ability levels Extras: special long-term discount; study in different cities Dates: please click here Prices: please click here

Would you like to enjoy 6 months in Italy and travel to different cities, too? We have the right program for you! The Long-Term Semester Course is an extended version of the Long-Term Standard Course. The general structure is similar, but the objectives are targeted on a long-term basis. If you would like to live in Italy for several months, the Leonardo da Vinci schools offer you the possibility of an attractive package. You may start learning Italian in Florence, and after a few months you can move to Rome, Siena or Milan. The curricula in the semester course are the same; thus you can change the course location any time you want and you will make the most of your stay in Italy. An excellent opportunity to attain a more in-depth and continuous study of the Italian language. You can combine learning the language and enjoying your free time. This course is also an excellent preparation for Master Courses in Art, Italian Design, Italian Fashion or Restoration. Last but not least, the Long-Term Semester Course has a particularly attractive price! ^top

ACADEMIC SCHOOL YEAR

Starting dates for beginners: from 03 January 2005 to 12 August 2005 from 09 May 2005 to 16 December 2005 from 26 September 2005 to 19 May 2006 Duration: 32 weeks Lessons: 640 lessons of language, culture and exam Level: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: min. 5 - max. 12 participants in each class Extras: Special accommodation prices Prices: please click here

The “academic year” is a 32 week language and culture course for students who wish to experience living and studying in Italy. The course combines not only language courses with Italian culture classes at the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci but the syllabus also incorporates the fundamental elements of level C2 of the European Language Portfolio. All in all, the course offers students the opportunity to see at first hand the various aspects of Italy’s rich history and culture. The course is composed of a linguistic element and an academic element: 1) Linguistic element: 480 lessons of the standard language course 80 lessons of preparation for the two Diploma «Firenze» AIL exams DILI (intermediate level) and DALI (advanced level) 2) Academic element (80 lessons): Italian Civilization and History Art History Business Italian History of Design and Architecture Introduction to Italian Gastronomy For students, starting the Academic Year in September 2005 the duration of the whole stay is 34 weeks, including two weeks of Christmas Holidays where no courses are held. This course is also an excellent preparation for Master Courses in Art, Italian Design, Italian Fashion or Restoration.

THE SCHOOL

Founded in 1977, we have years of experience and specialise in teaching Italian in Italy
All the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci schools are located in the city center
Professional and young teachers all of whom have studied at the University level and who have been specially trained in teaching Italian to foreigners
Members of ASILS (Associaton of language schools of Italian as a second foreign language)
Italian at every level, all year round, Small study groups
Courses start every 2 weeks (including beginners)
After 3 or 6 months the AIL-exam "Firenze" (Accademia Italiana di Lingua) DELI/DILI/DALI/DALC can be taken
A whole range of activities offered for students to gain insight into the Italian culture
Variety of students from over 50 countries study at the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci schools
Friendly and helpful staff that give personal attention to each student
Equipped for handicapped students

TEACHING METHOD

Our Teaching method takes full account of modern didactics and is oriented towards the "Foreign Language Concept of the Council of Europe" and the "Guidelines of the Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL)".

The Leonardo da Vinci schools teach according to the Direct Method: from the first day on, at all levels, only Italian will be spoken.

We emphasize the spoken language and live language. Continually stressing the use of verbal communication permits you to learn Italian "naturally", to unite theory and practice easily and to increase your knowledge quickly and with confidence. The structure of the language and its practical application is very important. Advanced courses also practice the written language.

Our teaching staff consists of young teams of experienced language teachers, all of whom studied at University and who have been specially trained in teaching Italian to foreigners.

Most of the teaching material has been developed by our schools and is excellently suited to the needs and requirements of the students. Thanks to a permanent work group the didactic material is continuously updated and adapted to the newest research on teaching languages to foreigners.

But learning Italian does not consist, for us at the Leonardo da Vinci schools, in just teaching grammar and vocabulary. We want to allow our students to gain insight into the Italian way of living and thinking. That is why we offer, in addition to the language courses, a whole range of italian culture extracurricular activities for our students.


FIRST SCHOOL DAY

On the first school day there is an entry test (written and oral), testing the student's knowledge of the Italian language.
Beginners will join a pilot course which is aimed to divide complete beginners from students with a little knowledge of the Italian language.

LEVELS OF ABILITY

Our schools offer courses on 6 monthly ability levels (subdivided on 12 ability levels ot two weeks, each), following the Assessment Grid of the European Language Portfolio (ELP), based on the assessment grid of Schneider/North.
 
DIDACTIC PROGRAM
(according to the level)

Intensive grammar study
Phonetics Development of vocabulary
Syntax and application
Listening and comprehension
Dialogue and communication
Situation method Idiomatic and phraseology
Written and oral comprehension
Lecture and analysis
Live guided discussion and synthesis
Free conversation
NOTA BENE

Teaching Material: Text books and supplies are provided by the school and is already included in the price of the course. You are expected to bring your own dictionary.
Minimum Admission Age: The minimum age for participants is 16.
Course Dates: In our calendar we specify the course dates, the public holidays and the days off for group language courses and courses in Italian culture.
Certificate of Attendance: On request, all students receive a Certificate of Attendance.
Lessons: The duration of each lesson is 45 minutes.

STANDARD ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE

	Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 12 weeks Lessons: 4 per day, 20 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates: please click here Prices: please click here Course schedule: please click here
The Standard Course is held throughout the year on 6 (monthly) levels of ability. Duration: 2 to 24 weeks. The 4 lessons are held daily from Monday to Friday, usually beginning at 9am. If there are many participants the Standard Course may also be held in the afternoon at 2pm. There is a maximum of 12 students in each class. ^top

INTENSIVE ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE - FLORENCE and ROME

	Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 24 weeks Lessons: 6 per day, 30 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates: please click here Prices: please click here Course schedule: please click here
The Intensive Course consists of 4 lessons Standard Course per day in the morning and 2 extra lessons of group language course in the afternoon. In the afternoon session students have the opportunity to increase their knowledge with practice in speaking and conversing. This course is held only in Florence and Rome. ^top

INTENSIVE ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE "PLUS" 5 & 10

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 24 weeks Lessons: 4 lessons of group language course plus 1 or 2 lessons of private tuition per day, 25 or 30 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in the group language course; 1 participant in the private lessons Dates: please click here Prices Plus-5: please click here Prices Plus-10: please click here Course schedule: please click here

The Intensive Plus Course consists of the Standard Course Plus additional private lessons (one-to-one). The individual lessons are specifically designed for your specific needs. We offer two kinds of Intensive Plus Courses: Intensive Plus-5 Course: 20 lessons of Standard Course and additional 5 private lessons per week; Intensive Plus-10 Course: 20 lessons of Standard Course and additional 10 private lessons per week. ^top

SMALL GROUP INTENSIVE ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSE
(FLORENCE and ROME)

	Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: from 2 to 12 weeks Lessons: 6 per day, 30 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: small groups of 2 to 5 participants Dates: please click here Prices: please click here
For students who want to learn quickly and intensively in a small group, or wish to increase their knowledge, the Small Group Intensive Course is tailor-made for their needs. Together with no more than 5 participants they will have 6 hours of daily intensive language course. The Small Group Intensive Course is held only in Florence and Rome. ^top

“PART TIME TWICE AND THRICE A WEEK” STANDARD COURSE
(ONLY MILAN)

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 8 weeks - prolongable Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates and prices: Part Time twice a week Dates and prices: Part Time thrice a week

If you want to learn or improve your Italian, but you don’t have time for a daily course, we offer you the possibility to attend “Part-Time” courses for two or three times a week. This evening course is especially recommended for those who already live, study or work in Milan. The courses are held throughout the year on six monthly ability levels. The minimum duration of each course is 8 weeks. PART-TIME TWICE A WEEK: Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 8 weeks - extendable Lessons: 2 lessons per evening, 4 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates and prices: Part Time twice a week Course schedule: held on Tuesday and Thursday evening PART-TIME THRICE A WEEK: Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 8 weeks - extendable Lessons: 2 lessons per evening, 6 per week Tuition: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: maximum 12 participants in each class Dates and prices: Part Time thrice a week Course schedule: held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening ^top

ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE COURSE "ITALY TODAY"

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: 2 or 4 weeks Lessons: 50 in two weeks Tuition: from the 3rd ability level on Class size: minimum 4 participants for the cultural part Dates: please click here Prices: please click here

For students who want to learn Italian and at the same time become acquainted with the culture and history and the current social and political situation of their host country, we suggest to choose the "Italy Today" Course. In addition to the 4 lessons Standard Course in the morning, in the afternoon they will be introduced to art and culture, history and folklore, press and films as well as the current political and economic situation of Italy. The cultural part of this course consists of 10 supplementary lessons in two weeks. ^top

LONG-TERM STANDARD COURSE

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 12 weeks Lessons: 4 per day, 20 per week Level: all 6 ability levels Extras: special long-term discount; study in different cities Dates: please click here Prices: please click here

Students wishing to study Italian for longer periods are especially welcome at our schools and receive special care and attention from our staff, as well as benefiting from our long-term discounted prices. With this course, students profit from all the advantages of learning a language in the country where it is spoken. Through our experience in teaching the Italian language, we know that the ideal minimum stay for a course is 12 weeks. Not only you will have more confidence in your language skills, but instead of feeling like you are on holiday, you will be completely immersed in the Italian culture and way of life. Many of our long-term students are preparing to enter university or rounding off their Italian Long-Term Standard Course with the recognised AIL "Firenze" examination. ^top

LONG-TERM SEMESTER COURSE

Starting dates: every 2 weeks Duration: minimum 24 weeks Lessons: 4 per day, 20 per week Level: all 6 ability levels Extras: special long-term discount; study in different cities Dates: please click here Prices: please click here

Would you like to enjoy 6 months in Italy and travel to different cities, too? We have the right program for you! The Long-Term Semester Course is an extended version of the Long-Term Standard Course. The general structure is similar, but the objectives are targeted on a long-term basis. If you would like to live in Italy for several months, the Leonardo da Vinci schools offer you the possibility of an attractive package. You may start learning Italian in Florence, and after a few months you can move to Rome, Siena or Milan. The curricula in the semester course are the same; thus you can change the course location any time you want and you will make the most of your stay in Italy. An excellent opportunity to attain a more in-depth and continuous study of the Italian language. You can combine learning the language and enjoying your free time. This course is also an excellent preparation for Master Courses in Art, Italian Design, Italian Fashion or Restoration. Last but not least, the Long-Term Semester Course has a particularly attractive price! ^top

ACADEMIC SCHOOL YEAR

Starting dates for beginners: from 03 January 2005 to 12 August 2005 from 09 May 2005 to 16 December 2005 from 26 September 2005 to 19 May 2006 Duration: 32 weeks Lessons: 640 lessons of language, culture and exam Level: on all 6 (monthly) ability levels Class size: min. 5 - max. 12 participants in each class Extras: Special accommodation prices Prices: please click here

The “academic year” is a 32 week language and culture course for students who wish to experience living and studying in Italy. The course combines not only language courses with Italian culture classes at the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci but the syllabus also incorporates the fundamental elements of level C2 of the European Language Portfolio. All in all, the course offers students the opportunity to see at first hand the various aspects of Italy’s rich history and culture. The course is composed of a linguistic element and an academic element: 1) Linguistic element: 480 lessons of the standard language course 80 lessons of preparation for the two Diploma «Firenze» AIL exams DILI (intermediate level) and DALI (advanced level) 2) Academic element (80 lessons): Italian Civilization and History Art History Business Italian History of Design and Architecture Introduction to Italian Gastronomy For students, starting the Academic Year in September 2005 the duration of the whole stay is 34 weeks, including two weeks of Christmas Holidays where no courses are held. This course is also an excellent preparation for Master Courses in Art, Italian Design, Italian Fashion or Restoration.

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.

SACI was founded in 1975 to create a complete program in Florence for students seeking excellence in studio art and liberal arts instruction at the United States university level. In 1999, after twenty-four years of activity and growth, SACI had the extraordinary good fortune to acquire as its permanent home the Palazzo dei Cartelloni, a Renaissance building right in the center of Florence. This advantageous location provides highly dynamic surroundings for art education.

The palazzo was dedicated in the seventeenth century to the scientist Galileo Galilei by his pupil Viviani. On the façade there are large scrolls which describe the extraordinary achievements of Galileo. The 29,000 square foot palazzo surrounds a large traditional Italian garden. The spacious light-filled interiors have been conserved in their original baroque magnificence, including the painted ceilings and frescoed walls.

SACI provides a stimulating educational experience that draws upon the rich cultural resources of both past and present Italy. The inspiring and well-equipped facilities of the palazzo and separate Graduate Center are located a few steps from Michelangelo's Medici Chapel, the Laurentian Library, the Duomo, the church of Santa Maria Novella, and the bustling activity of Florence's central market.

Studio Art Centers International is recognized as one of the leading overseas institutions in the areas of studio art, art history, art conservation and Italian language and culture. Our long experience in the field of overseas education has led us to develop five programs which are fully described in the following links. Separate materials are available which give more detailed information about our Two Year Diploma, Post-Baccalaureate, and MFA programs.

It is part of our goal to make Italy's abundant resources available and pertinent to studio art, art history and art conservation students through field trips and course work. Rome, Milan, Lucca, Arezzo, Bologna, Carrara, Assisi, Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, Faenza, Urbino, and Pietrasanta are visited over the course of the year by classes in SACI's programs, as well as the major museums, churches, and monuments of Florence.

In addition, courses in studio art, art history and art conservation make use of field trips to artists' studios, private collections, galleries, art fairs, professional designers' studios, and manufacturers of Italian design products. SACI students have access to modern art collections and contemporary art museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Prato, the Marino Marini Museum in Florence, and the Contemporary Art Museum of the Papesse in Siena. For students of art conservation, there is the unique opportunity to participate in the conservation of works housed in the Conservatorio di Santa Maria degli Angioli, a special cultural arrangement by SACI with the city of Florence.

SACI's growing library has over 7,000 schoolwork related titles in English to choose from, as well as a good selection of art periodicals and works of fiction. As the library is specifically designed for use by students enrolled in SACI classes and research projects, this is an invaluable resource. The library is open seven days a week and hours are posted each term. Books may be checked out for one week at a time. Students can sign out video cassettes from SACI’s video library and use the VCR in the aula magna. Complete art history bibliographies are also available to help students locate books and materials in other Florentine libraries, to which our students have access. For example, all of our students can also use the documentation center at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Prato and the British Institute library.

SACI has a Visiting Artist Program, and also holds important exhibitions in its Gallery, including a series of exhibitions, in collaboration with Florence's cultural offices, which feature emerging and established artists. Many visiting artists are members of the SACI Artists Council, a group of internationally renowned artists who support SACI and its mission. The school also hosts an evening lecture series to complement curricular offerings. Our speakers include artists, art historians, conservators, museum directors, curators, critics, and scholars specializing in art, art history, conservation, and other aspects of Italian culture and life including politics, music, literature, and history. Additional evening activities open to students include life drawing classes, film screenings, and introductory courses on Italian culture and food.

SACI's extensive language program includes unique features. In our Italian Language Partner Program, students are introduced to a selected group of Italian students and young professionals who accompany their SACI partners to interesting local events and activities. This encourages SACI students to practice their language skills and has proved an extremely rewarding experience for many of our students.

In addition to the many site visits which are part of our courses, optional trips are usually offered to Naples, Pompei, Herculaneum, and Venice. Over mid-term break, optional week-long trips have been offered to Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, or, as graduate workshops, to Geneva and London. Information regarding a wide range of travel, sport, and cultural activities is available through SACI. For more than twenty-five years, SACI has proved to be a stimulating environment for the serious student of art, design, art history, and art conservation. Many of our alumni attribute their professional success to their time at SACI. If you are seeking a creative, challenging, and rewarding Italian study program, SACI may be the right choice for you.


Studio Art Centers International (SACI) is a program administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE, www.iie.org). IIE is the world’s most experienced, nonprofit global higher education and professional exchange agency. SACI’s United States offices are headquartered in the IIE New York building at 809 United Nations Plaza. Along with SACI, IIE administers such programs as the US Government’s Fulbright Program, The Humphrey Fellowship, The National Security Education Program, and over 200 others. SACI is proud of its affiliation with the Institute. By working closely to strengthen and encourage international education we can “open minds to the world.”

 

SACI offers five different programs of study to meet the diverse needs of students. One of those described below should be ideal for you. Detailed individual program descriptions follow these brief introductions.

Year/Semester Abroad Program
Designed for US undergraduates and independent students, this program provides an in-depth study abroad opportunity. A wide variety of academic and studio subjects are offered, many at multiple levels. Although students can apply for either one or two semesters, a full academic year is recommended to maximize this foreign study experience.

Late Spring & Summer Studies
These short terms at SACI are designed to meet the needs of both US university-level students seeking credit and independent students looking for a thorough and well-structured program. These terms encourage students to take full advantage of the varied cultural, artistic, and social events that Florence and Italy offer during May, June and July.

Two Year Diploma Program
Designed for all students with a US high school diploma, or the international equivalent, this provides a clearly structured studio art, art history, or art conservation program in Italy. Many international students have found this program to be the doorway to serious US university level study. A sequential curriculum leads the student through progressive levels of study in the disciplines of drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, photography, video, design, art history, and art conservation. Students successfully completing this program are granted a diploma and may apply their course-work towards a US Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Those who complete this course of study will find that this thorough and intense program will provide a solid base for their future careers whether within the context of American or European education or practice.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program
This program offers an intensive and personalized year of study in art, art history, and art conservation to college or university graduates who want to immerse themselves in a Major Discipline. It requires, encourages, and fosters a high degree of seriousness, self-discipline, and independence.

The program is especially well-suited to students preparing for application to advanced degree programs (MFA/MA). It also meets the needs of people who have some prior training but who decided too late in their undergraduate careers that they wanted to concentrate in the visual arts, art history, museology, or art conservation.

Master of Fine Arts Programs
These programs are offered in conjunction with Bowling Green State University in Ohio and Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania and are designed for students who want to complete up to a year of graduate study in Florence. Students enrolled in these programs are required to complete their studies at BGSU in Ohio or Marywood University in Pennsylvania.

The BGSU/SACI MFA is offered in the disciplines of drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, photography and design.

The Marywood University/SACI MFA is offered in the disciplines of ceramics, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture.

Two-Dimensional Area

Drawing

ART103 Drawing Foundations
ARTS(D)400 Intermediate Drawing
ARTS414 Advanced Drawing
ARTS(HS)400 2-D Honors Studio

Painting

ARTS221 Beginning Painting
ARTS(P)400 Intermediate Painting
ARTS424 Advanced Painting
ARTS400 Fresco Painting
ARTS(HS)400 2-D Honors Studio

Printmaking

ARTS(E)231 Beginning Etching
ARTS(E)333 Intermediate Etching
ARTS(E)435 Advanced Etching
ARTS(L)231 Beginning Lithography
ARTS(L)334 Intermediate Lithography
ARTS(L)435 Advanced Lithography
ARTS(S)400i Beginning Serigraphy
ARTS(S)400ii Intermediate Serigraphy
ARTS(S)400iii Advanced Serigraphy
ARTS231 Printmaking Workshop-Beginning
ARTS400 Printmaking Workshop Intermediate
ARTS435 Printmaking Workshop - Advanced

Design Area
 Media Facilities.pdf

Architecture and
Environmental Design

TE490 The City and Its Edges
ARCH(ARC)495 European Architecture Seminar
ARTD(ED)495i Beginning Environmental Design
ARTD(ED)495ii Intermediate Environmental Design
ARTD(ED)495iii Advanced Environmental Design

Graphic Design

ARTD201 Beginning Graphic Design
ARTD302 Intermediate Graphic Design
ARTD401 Advanced Graphic Design
ARTD(DW)495 Design Workshop
ARTD(IL)495 Illustration

Interior Design

ID117 Beginning Interior Design
ID219 Intermediate Interior Design
ID319 Advanced Interior Design

Italian Studies Area

History

MUCT412 History of Opera
ITAL261 History of Italian Cinema I
ITAL470 History of Italian Cinema II

Literature

ITAL361 Italian Renaissance Literature
ITAL488 Modern Italian Literature
ENG209 Creative Writing Workshop

Italian Language Area

ITAL101 Beginning Italian: Level I
ITAL102 Beginning Italian: Level II
ITAL201 Intermediate Italian
ITAL351 Advanced Italian

Craft Arts Area

Batik

ARTS(B)251 Beginning Batik
ARTS(B)352 Intermediate Batik
ARTS(B)454 Advanced Batik

Jewelry

ARTS281 Beginning Jewelry Design
ARTS383 Intermediate Jewelry Design
ARTS485 Advanced Jewelry Design

Weaving

ARTS(W)251 Beginning Weaving
ARTS(W)353 Intermediate Weaving
ARTS(W)454 Advanced Weaving

Three-Dimensional Area

Ceramics

ARTS271 Beginning Ceramics
ARTS372 Intermediate Ceramics
ARTS474 Advanced Ceramics

Sculpture

ARTS291 Beginning Sculpture
ARTS401 Intermediate Sculpture
ARTS495 Advanced Sculpture
ARTS392 Stone Carving

Media Area
 Media Facilities.pdf

Computer Art

ARTC400 Applications of Computer Art

Photography

ARTS241 Photography I
ARTS342 Photography II
ARTS444 Advanced
Photographic Techniques
ARTS343 Photography III:Color
ARTS400 Advanced Color Photography

Video

TCOM263 Video I
TCOM364 Video II
TCOM468 Video III

Art History Area

Art History

ARTH449 Late Medieval and Early Renaissance Art History
ARTH451 High Renaissance, Mannerist, & Early Baroque Art History
ARTH(OS1)495 Field Trips (co-requisite)
ARTH(RS)495 Renaissance Art History Survey
ARTH(S)495 Advanced Art History Seminar
ARTH456 Modern European and Italian Art
ARTH457 Contemporary European and Italian Art

Museology

ARTH(M)495 Museology
ARTH(AM)470 Museology Internship

Art Conservation Area

ARTH(PC1)495 Beginning
Painting Conservation I
ARTH(PC2)495 Beginning
Painting Conservation II
ARTS(PC)400 Conservation Law, Business, and Management
ARTS(PCON)400 Painting Conservation:Conservatorio of Santa Maria degli Angeli
ARTH(DTC1)495 Diagnostic Techniques for Conservators I
ARTH(DTC2)495 Diagnostic Techniques for Conservators II
ARTS(AD)400 Artistic and Drawing Techniques for Conservators
ARTH(CO)495 Computer Applications for Conservators
ARTS(ARCH)400 Conservation of Archaeological Objects
ARTH(ET)495 Etruscology

Graduate Courses

ARTH582 (Fall) Seminar
ARTH602 (Spring) Seminar
ART692 Research Techniques

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 arri