UCL - Reading comprehension and vocabulary extension: economic and commercial texts in Dutch

[GERM2243]

[30h] 4 credits

This course is taught in the 1st semester.

Teacher(s): Jean-Pierre Colson

Language: NL

Level: Second

Aims
Main themes
Content and teaching methods
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Aims

At the end of the course, students should be able to understand economic and commercial texts in Dutch and have acquired a solid vocabulary in these areas (at C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference).

Main themes

The course is based on a detailed description of the linguistic (grammatical, lexical and stylistic) features that are typical of the economic and commercial domain as opposed to other registers of the Dutch language. The focus is on significantly increasing specialised vocabulary to enable students to easily understand any text in this domain.
Articles from newspapers, magazines, scientific books and websites are used for reading comprehension and vocabulary extension exercises.

Content and teaching methods

The course is based on a detailed analysis of economic and commercial Dutch using original texts. These articles are centred on important themes, particularly macro-economics, trade, sales techniques, accounting, the management and structure of companies, insurance and banking. Various exercises and internet research are used to enhance reading skills and vocabulary extension in this domain.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Prerequisites: B1+ level of listening and reading in Dutch (Common European Framework of Reference).
Evaluation: Written examination: reading comprehension questions on original texts related to themes covered in class and vocabulary exercises based on vocabulary studied in class.
Course materials: Texts used include current economic affairs, theoretical texts on economic issues and internet and newspaper articles.