Learn Italian with Netflix

WHY NETFLIX?

I have been practicing languages using Netflix for a while and I find it to be a very effective tool for language learning. I especially like TV series because the episodes are shorter (usually less than one hour) and the dialog is down to earth and real, close to how Italians actually speak. Here are some other reasons:

Repetition: Words and expressions are repeated many times as the plot develops and, yes, you might hear a lot of “allora…” and quite a few bad word (parolacce)…

Context: Words are best learned in a context, not in isolation. Knowing a word does not mean knowing how to use it. By watching a movie or TV series we hear words used within specific communicative situations, often repeated again and again (see above).

Pronunciation and comprehension: Italian is a varied language with multitudes of accents. Italian TV shows often showcase accents from different parts of the country making for authentic listening practice.

Generation 56K

Tuesday, 4 - 5:30 PM (EDT)
July 5 - Aug. 23

Wednesday, 12 - 1:30 PM (EDT)
July 6 - Aug. 24

A heartwarming story of two young adults originally from Procida, an island near Naples. Now both living in Naples, they meet again by pure chance. The story alternates between their lives now and back while in middle school, on the island, in 1998 when the Internet was still a new thing.

Prior to each class: The instructor will provide vocabulary lists, background information, and comprehension and discussion questions. Students need to have their own Netflix subscription and will watch the weekly episode on their own.

During class: We will used the story to practice Italian conversation, discuss the plot, analyze the story or the characters, describe the actors or the setting, talk about the issues presented, express our opinions and use some of the idiomatic expressions learned

FAQs

Should I use subtitles?

Yes! Try using Italian subtitles and see how it goes. If you find it too confusing and you are missing most of the story, then switch to English subtitles. For extra practice, you could watch it twice, first with English subtitles and then with Italian subtitles.

Are we watching Netflix during class?

No! Class time will be used to practice Italian.