Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student should be able (individually or in a group):

  • to read a text related to their field of specialization and discuss it;
  • to listen to a presentation on a subject related to their field of specialization and discuss it;
  • to deliver an oral presentation, based on an article or on various pre-prepared sources.


Goals

The objective of the course is to be able to read non-specialized texts in Dutch in the field of history and to give presentations in this field.


The teaching of the language is structured around two main axes:

  • The receptive axis, i.e. listening comprehension and reading of authentic texts, and the acquisition of the vocabulary necessary to develop this skill;
  • The productive axis, i.e. oral and written expression, which requires the use of a number of grammatical and lexical structures. Within the framework of this course, written expression will not be assessed.


In addition, the student will have to:

  • develop mastery of vocabulary specific to their field of study;
  • develop critical and argumentative thinking;
  • independently deepen their understanding of Dutch-language content such as TV series, films, or podcasts, in order to become familiar with the Dutch linguistic and cultural landscape.


Within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the objectives correspond to the following levels:

  • Listening and Speaking: B1+
  • Reading: B2


Content

The course will be structured around different components, which will be addressed in parallel:


  • Themes: The aim of these themes is to improve your reading/listening comprehension skills and to familiarize you with historical vocabulary. Basic vocabulary (level A1/A2) is assumed to be known.
  • Presentations: Presentation activities (individually or in groups), with the aim of improving your oral expression skills.
  • Basic grammar will be addressed inductively, through the analysis of grammatical structures encountered in texts or audio excerpts. It may also be practiced more systematically with the help of targeted grammar exercises.


Table of contents

The themes discussed in class could include, among others:

  • migration and refugees
  • shifts of power
  • technological (r)evolutions
  • transport
  • the darker sides of history
  • fashion
  • war and peace
  • the mines
  • Carnival and other popular festivals
  • Valentine’s Day and relationships
  • media
  • Dutch in the world
  • Dutch and Flemish culture
  • ecology
  • religion

Pre-requisites

Introduction to the Dutch language (level B1) [LCDLB031]

Teaching methods

• Method adapted to the audience. • On average: 2 hours of classroom work, 2 hours of homework per week

Assessment method

  • Active participation in class and individual work are subject to continuous assessment.
  • During the January examination period, a written exam will be organized on the material already covered. Attendance at this exam is mandatory.
  • During the second semester: group oral presentation.
  • During the May–June examination period, a written exam will be organized on the material from the second semester, as well as an oral exam.
  • In the resit session, the students will only retake the parts for which they obtained less than 50%.

 

Sources, references and any support material

Materials

  • Documents available on WebCampus

Staff

Language of instruction

Dutch