Newcastle University

Portugese

This subject is offered by the School of Modern Languages.

Subject summary

Our Portuguese provision is enhanced by sponsorship from the Instituto Camões. Our programme places emphasis on high levels of attainment in language learning, while treating language as integral to cultural and social life.

During the first year the focus lies on communication skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), and Portuguese grammar. In the second year students have the opportunity to further develop their language skills by exposing them to a range of materials which are interesting both in terms of their content and the linguistic challenges they contain. In the third year we have small-sized classes, and the course builds on the knowledge students have acquired in previous modules as well as in their Intercalating Year abroad.

Students work with items from the Portuguese news on a weekly basis, read texts on current affairs and prepare presentations researching the internet and other resources. Some interpreting of Portuguese contemporary literature will be approached. Self-reflection and independent learning are encouraged.

We offer a few modules where students can study aspects of Portuguese and Brazilian histories and cultures.

Pre-requisites

Portuguese can be studied from scratch, post-GCSE or post-A level (or equivalent) standards.

Further information

Please note that a maximum of two language subjects can be taken together and only one of these can be at beginners’ level.
From 2012 entry onwards no more than one Modern Language can be continued past Stage 1.

Examples of Portuguese modules offered

Please note that Portuguese can be taken as a minor subject only (40 credits).