Portuguese

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Why study Portuguese?

Portuguese is the official language of nine countries (Brazil, Portugal, Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe, and East Timor) and is spoken on four continents. It is the sixth most widely spoken language in the world, and the fastest-growing European language after English. It is even spoken in other regions like Macau (China), Goa and Daman (India) and in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao (the Caribbean).

Portuguese is highly relevant in the Caribbean and Latin American context, as Brazil boasts Latin America’s largest economy and ranks among the top 15 largest economies in the world. Proficiency in the Portuguese language therefore can potentially open up opportunities for employment, trade and higher education with this Latin American giant.

Furthermore, learning the Portuguese language involves discovering rich and diverse cultures. Brazil, for example, is home to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Christ the Redeemer statue. Its’ national football team are World Cup Champions and Rio’s Carnival festivities are simply unparalleled. Brazil’s flora and fauna are also so diverse that each visit guarantees a uniquely, unforgettable experience. By learning Portuguese you will be able to engage with the locals and have far more authentic experiences.

COURSE details

Delivery
Course Overview
Schedule
Delivery

Classes are conducted as far as possible in the target language to give students maximum exposure to the new language and culture. During the course, students develop an ability to communicate in Portuguese in situations relating to their personal lives.

In addition, students are expected to spend time on self-study preparing for classes and reviewing and consolidating work done in class. Students are also encouraged to develop a repertoire of strategies to promote their autonomy as language learners. At each level, 100% in-course testing is the form of assessment.

Course Overview

Portuguese is offered at one levels (subject to demand):

Level 1 (A & B) – Beginner

Portuguese 1A

Portuguese 1A is a beginners’ course that introduces students to the Portuguese language and to some of its cultural aspects. By focusing on the four basic skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), students will develop an initial ability to communicate in Portuguese in basic situations relating to their personal lives. Students will be introduced to the concept of learner autonomy in language learning.

Portuguese 1B

Portuguese 1B is a beginners’ course that builds on the work done in Portuguese 1A. By focusing on the four basic skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), students will enhance their ability to communicate in the Portuguese in situations relating to themselves and areas of immediate relevance. Students will continue to develop their autonomy in language learning.

Schedule

There are 52-contact hours per semester. Classes meet for four 50-minute sessions per week, with classes beginning on the hour and ending ten minutes before the hour (e.g. 11:00 to 11:50).

View timetable.