Aims

In consonance with the overall aims of the degrees offered in the SML, the module aims to:

- build on language skills gained at Stages 1, 2 and 3
- provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the German language and with the ability to use it at a high level of proficiency in professional, academic and social environments
- prepare students for postgraduate study in areas that make extensive and intensive use of the target language
- develop students’ translation skills (into English) and interpreting skills (into and from German), to an advanced level of competence

Outline Of Syllabus

This module comprises two components: liaison interpreting (into and from German) and written translation (into English). It is aimed at final year students of German who have reached a near-native command of the language.

The translation and liaison interpreting tasks are based on topical themes.

Sessions will include:
- Vocabulary acquisition and practice, note-taking and other interpreting-related skills development and practice for interpreting
- Interpreting and translation techniques
- Using appropriate register/style

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Seminars will introduce, model and offer guidance in each of the skills that students are required to practise during the course (translation and liaison interpreting).

Group work will offer students an opportunity to work in small groups (in the target language and in English) under close supervision of the lecturer. These classes will focus on the skills listed in the outline syllabus.

The lecture on note-taking will introduce the note-taking techniques that will be used for interpreting throughout the first semester.

Independent study will give students the opportunity to prepare and reinforce what is covered in seminars, and to undertake research and extra practice.

Teaching will be in the target language and in English.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assessment of interpreting is performed in a setting that is as close to a real-life situation as possible.

Translation is assessed by means of a timed PC exam to give students the opportunity to test their translation, time management and written communication skills in a setting that is close to a real-life professional situation.

An interpreting mock exam and practice translation help students assess their progress before the formal examinations take place. Formative feedback will be provided regularly.

The oral examination will assess students' ability to take swift and effective notes and listen and convey information into English and the target language in a prompt and professional manner. Reasonable adjustments can be made if required as part of a student support plan.