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Degree Course in

Sciences of Administration and Organisation

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Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: DOUGLAS PONTON

Expected Learning Outcomes

To acquire knowledge of the language and culture of Britain and the United States, to be able to discuss one's own ideas of these, in English.

Course Structure

The course involves frontal teaching, exercises in couples and small groups, vision of film material and listening, discussion in Italian and English, student powerpoint presentations

Required Prerequisites

basic knowledge of lexis, morpho-syntax, phonology of English language

Detailed Course Content

the course covers various aspects of English and American culture such as Highland life, American music, Silicon Valley, etc.

Textbook Information

Collection of texts on British and American culture mainly taken from the web

Course Planning

 SubjectsText References
1Living in the Country, reading and translation, discussionCollection of texts on various subjects, grammar exercises
2Lesson 2 Scotland, cultural life, reading and translation, discussionCollection of texts
3Lesson 3 Scotland (ii), cultural life, reading and translation, discussionCollection of texts
4Lesson 4, The Beatles, Reading, exercises and discussionCollection of texts
5Lesson 5 London in the Sea, Reading, exercises, discussionCollection of texts
6Lesson 6 The Loch Ness Monster, British culture: Reading, exercises, discussionCollection of texts
7Lezione 7: Elvis Presley, Reading, exercises, discussion Collection of texts
8Lesson 8 Blues Festival, Reading, exercises, discussionCollection of texts
9Lezione 9 Silicon Valley, Reading, exercises, discussionCollection of texts

Learning Assessment

Learning Assessment Procedures

written test on grammar elements at A2/B1 level oral exam on the articles in the programme; reading, translation and discussion in English

Assessment Criteria and Grading Scale

In Italy, examination results are expressed on a scale from 18/30 (minimum pass) to 30/30 (maximum). The highest grade may be awarded with “lode” (cum laude), reserved for outstanding performance. There is no direct equivalence with percentages or GPA, but the system can be understood as ranging from “sufficient” to “excellent,” with an additional level of distinction.

  • Fail (0–17): The student does not demonstrate adequate knowledge of the basic course content and/or has not completed the required work.

  • 18–20 (Pass – Sufficient): Minimal knowledge of the subject; very limited ability to apply concepts; significant difficulty in critical discussion.

  • 21–24 (Fair – Discrete): Adequate command of course topics; correct but basic exposition; frequent need for guidance.

  • 25–27 (Good): Solid knowledge of the subject; ability to handle cases and assignments independently, with only minor inaccuracies.

  • 28–30 (Very Good – Excellent): Comprehensive and in-depth knowledge; autonomous ability to make connections between themes and sources; clear exposition with no significant errors.

  • 30 cum laude (Distinction): Exceptional performance, marked by originality, critical insight, and virtually complete mastery of the subject.