The AZ Taormina Italian language program has been designed using the recognized communicative based approach and focuses on the four language abilities (listening, speaking, reading, writing). The first goal is communication, both oral and written.

First Goal: Communication

1. Speaking and Writing

The Standard Italian group course is divided in two parts: 2 hours of Italian language analysis followed by 2 hours of practice with communicative tasks. The analytical activities part includes controlled oral and written production, while the communicative tasks part involves listening and reading comprehension and free oral and written activities. The Italian language instructors rotate weekly to add variety and interest to the group dynamic. Grammatical structures are presented in order of frequency and relative complexity. The material is always introduced in some form of authentic text (newspaper or magazine article, taped dialogue, video-taped situation, letter, short story, etc.). Progress is monitored and all teachers meet weekly to facilitate organization and ensure proper student placement.

The Standard Italian Group Course is divided into two parts:

1. Two hours of language analysis

2. Two hours of practice with communicative tasks

There are a maximum number of 10 students per class, though depending on season the average class size is generally between 5 and 8 people. This limit ensures a small group environment conducive to communication and offers each student the opportunity to participate as much as possible.

Ranging from Absolute Beginner to Advanced, the program is divided into six different levels of ability. Students may enroll in weekly classes for up to 6-months of coursework, depending on their goals. All students are placed in a level based on their entrance exam (both written and oral). Though AZ Taormina is somewhat flexible, we highly recommend that all students begin on the specified start dates, which occur roughly every two weeks (please consult the Program Overview page) and it is required for all Absolute Beginners.