Italian language | International School of Como

Italian Pathways At ISC

The IB's emphasis on language choice is central to its mission of fostering global-mindedness and intercultural understanding. The IB encourages students to engage with different cultures and perspectives by offering a wide range of language options, broadening their worldviews and enhancing communication skills. The choice of a second language, in particular, helps students step beyond their own linguistic and cultural boundaries, enabling them to connect with others in meaningful ways. Learning the host country's language, such as Italian in Italy, further deepens students' integration into the local community, promoting mutual respect and collaboration. Ultimately, language choice in the IB strengthens students' ability to navigate an increasingly interconnected world, preparing them to be adaptable and empathetic global citizens.

The Italian A Course

For Italian native and proficient speakers, the Italian A curriculum is designed to foster proficiency in their mother tongue, providing access to Italy’s rich literary and cultural heritage. Proficiency in the native language also facilitates learning other languages and subjects. That is why we are implementing a vertical curriculum that enables students to meet key linguistic and cultural milestones from the early years onward. This pathway prepares students for future educational pursuits in the rigorous IB Diploma Programme. We aim to shape young adults with strong communication skills and a solid foundation in the humanities. The Italian A course is primarily designed for Italian students but is open to non-native speakers who have achieved the B2 level of Italian. These students can analyse texts and explore Italian literature with their native-speaking peers.

The Italian A course in PYP offers a learning pathway specifically tailored for students who speak Italian as their mother tongue. This course is structured to guide them toward achieving advanced linguistic competencies, reflecting their native language knowledge. It also prepares them for the Quinta Elementare Exam as private candidates, providing an opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of the Italian language.

In the MYP, the Italian A course for students in Grades 7-9 builds upon the foundations established in earlier years and focuses on further enhancing linguistic mastery in an advanced and multifaceted way. The course is designed to develop essential study and linguistic skills to serve students well on their journey toward the Terza Media exam. It also initiates a progressive preparation for the IB Diploma, offering students a strong foundation in language and literature for future academic challenges.

In Grade 10, students will be evaluated on their Italian proficiency, even if they pass the Terza Media exam. If a non-native speaker student reaches a B2 level, they can choose between the Italian A or Italian B courses, depending on their future academic aspirations. This flexibility allows students to tailor their Italian language studies to their personal goals, ensuring they are well-prepared for the next phase of their academic journey.

More spaces, more opportunities, more excellence

The Italian B Course

The Italian B (Language acquisition) course is specifically designed for students learning Italian as a foreign language. This educational offering begins in Grade 2 and continues until the completion of the IB Diploma. The course is conceived as a continuous and progressive learning pathway, allowing students to develop linguistic skills that culminate in the diploma years. Thanks to our expertise in pedagogical differentiation, this course is tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners and enhance their experiences during their time in Italy. The Italian language, taught as a foreign language, allows students to grow linguistically and culturally, making their educational experience in Italy more immersive and meaningful.

Languages Pathways Diagram

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