Aims of this course is that students acquire knowledge about different aspects of English language and culture through the scope of "translation". "Translation" is generally understood as transferring the meaning of a text written in one language to another language while retaining the original meaning. However, the generation of meaning (semantic generation) results from complex combinations of linguistic systems, social contexts and cultural value. Translation is the product of this interpretative process. In this class, we will study a variety of Japanese literature translated into English, and English literature into Japanese while comparing their linguistic and cultural aspects and their relations to the positionality of the translator. Students will improve their English skills by communicating with their peers in English.
By the end of this course, students will be able to
・have discussions and give presentations in English
・have better understanding of English language and culture and intercultural communication through the scope of translation.
Translation, Intercultural communication
Specialist skills | ✔ Intercultural skills | ✔ Communication skills | Critical thinking skills | Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
The class consists of the tutor's mini-lecture, students' group work and discussion, and their presentations. The class is taught in English. As the tutor is Japanese and fluent in Japanese, students are encouraged to ask questions in both English and Japanese.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
---|---|---|
Class 1 | Introduction Academic Presentation Skills: Introduction | Students understand how the class will be conducted and what will be used as reading materials. Students decide a topic of their interest for their presentation. Students review the basics of the academic presentations. |
Class 2 | Aspects of semantic generation | Students understand aspects of semantic generation. |
Class 3 | Linguistic equivalence 1 | Students understand some aspects of linguistic equivalence. |
Class 4 | Linguistic equivalence 2 | Students understand some aspects of linguistic equivalence. |
Class 5 | Social equivalence 1 | Students understand some aspects of social equivalence. |
Class 6 | Translation practice: peer-critique | Students learn how to assess the quality of translation. |
Class 7 | プレゼンテーション | Students are able to present their translation while analysing the methods and concepts they apply to the translated text. |
To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.
Handouts
Handouts
Activities in class 50%
Participation in the translation sessions 30%
Submission of the final draft of the translation 20%
None
It is recommended that students take this course in sequence with Seminar: Language and Culture(English) 16.
Attendance at the first class is compulsory for students planning to take this course.
The content of the course is subject to change to suit the needs of the registrants.