Module description

An exciting, multi-dimensional final year language module which aims to enhance linguistic skills alongside engaged study of cultural specificities and societal concerns. The module will cover a range of topics that aim to investigate contemporary Swedish society and culture while developing textual and analytical skills. In the second term it will also consider language in a broader socio-political context, and will study issues of language history, diversity, policy and identity. As a final focus, the module closes the circle of the students’ language learning experiences, and asks them to consider aspects of language pedagogy – both from a personal perspective and the role of language learning as a tool of cultural interaction and social construction. The module thus enhances and develops linguistic skills and cultural knowledge, while also aiming to develop transferrable skills in cultural understanding, critical analysis, language pedagogy and inter-cultural communication.

The main aims of the module can be summarised as:

> Developing a high proficiency in Swedish – including extended vocabulary range and grammatical security, as well as awareness of different styles, text types, and registers.

> Developing knowledge and understanding of aspects Swedish society and culture, as well as cultures and societies in general, through study of particular issues and texts.

> Exploring and developing awareness of language learning processes at an individual level and their place in society.

Reading List/ Suggested Reading:

Students joining this course in the autumn might wish to prepare by reading one or more novel/s (or plays/poetry) by significant Swedish authors either while on the year abroad or over the summer. If you are unsure what to read, please email the tutor. There will be an additional task set for the first session, which will be communicated either via Moodle or email at the end of the summer.

Please note: This module description is accurate at the time of publication. Minor amendments may be made prior to the start of the academic year.