Italian 3/4: Culture and communication in Italy
An intermediate Italian course exploring cultural expectations, language register and communication choices in different situations across Italy.
What Intermediate (B1) Italian means
At B1 Italian, learners can deal with most everyday situations and explain experiences, opinions and plans in connected language.
Express an opinion
Penso che lavorare da casa sia utile, anche se a volte può risultare isolante.
I think working from home is useful, although it can sometimes feel isolating.
Explain a plan
Voglio migliorare il mio italiano per poter lavorare all’estero l’anno prossimo.
I want to improve my Italian so I can work abroad next year.
Tell a short story
Stavamo andando in spiaggia quando ha iniziato a piovere, quindi abbiamo cambiato programma.
We were heading to the beach when it started raining, so we changed our plans.
These are general examples of language use at this level, not a description of any individual course syllabus.
About this course
Conducted almost entirely in Italian, the course examines how language and behaviour vary across social situations and Italian regions. Topics include word choice, register, body language, sensitive subjects and cultural expectations, with comparisons to learners’ countries of origin. Teaching centres on spoken communication through pair and group work, role plays and games, supported by presentations, hand-outs and audio-visual resources.
What you'll learn
- Distinguish between language registers appropriate to different situations.
- Recognise cultural expectations and regional variations in Italy.
- Identify sensitive conversational topics and discuss suitable ways to address them.
- Compare Italian communication conventions with those of another country.
Is this course right for you?
The course is intended for learners at a good B1 level or above, including those who have studied Italian for at least three years. It is taught mainly through spoken interaction, with pair work, group activities and role plays.
- Requires at least a good B1 level or equivalent study of Italian.
- Learners take part in spoken activities with pairs and groups.
- Homework is highly recommended to consolidate learning.
Before you go
- Necessary course materials are provided by the tutor.
- Teaching and learning resources are available through Google Classroom.
Class teacher
Paola Roncagliolo
Class teacher
Where this course runs
Upcoming classes
1 class
Selected date
Fri 22 Jan 2027
12:45 – 14:15 • 8 weeks
£179
Keeley Street, Covent Garden
