ML2201: Introduction to Specialised Translation

School Translation
Department Code MLANG
Module Code ML2201
External Subject Code 101130
Number of Credits 30
Level L5
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Dr Carlos Sanz Mingo
Semester Double Semester
Academic Year 2022/3

Outline Description of Module

The module aims to provide students with knowledge of the basic methodological steps to translate specialised texts. Lectures are complemented with specific language seminars where students will be able to practice different translation skills and methods.

Different types of texts will be worked on in order to understand the process of translation in different styles and languages.

Links with other modules: this module builds and develops on the practical skills the students learnt in year 1 with the module “Introduction to Translation Methods” (ML8100) and, at the same time, it introduces the student to the professional world of translation which will be developed in the final year module “Translation as a Profession” (ML2375). It also complements and consolidates the linguistic knowledge of the corresponding languages by working and reflecting on specialised texts. 

On completion of the module a student should be able to

  1. Analyse the principles guiding the translation of specialised texts and the appropriate use of translation resources and tools;
  2. Apply the methods learnt in the module to translate specialised texts with different textual features;
  3. Implement the training gained on the modules in Level 4 (translation theory and methodology of translation) to the translation of specialised texts;
  4. Reflect critically on their own translation practice;
  5. Reflect on the translation process of specific texts (for example, humanities social sciences and medical/scientific).

How the module will be delivered

The module will be delivered through a range of interactive teaching sessions supplemented by online teaching and learning activities and materials – and may include, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings. Full details on the delivery mode of this module will be available on Learning Central at the start of the academic year – and may be, in part, determined by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidance.  

Skills that will be practised and developed

  • Comprehensive understanding of basic translation methods and tools applicable to specialised texts;
  • Appropriate translation methods to produce the translation of short and simple specialised texts;
  • Appropriate use of translation tools and resources; and
  • Communication and reflection skills through participation in the seminars of translation practice. 

How the module will be assessed

The method(s) of assessing the learning outcomes for this module are set out in the Assessment Table, which also contains the weightings of each assessment component.

OPPORTUNITY FOR RE-ASSESSMENT

You may be required to resit one or more of the assessments in this module if you fail the module. The Examination Board will advise you which assessments you need to resit during the August resit period. Resit assessments that are not supported by extenuating circumstances will be capped at the pass mark applicable to your programme.

Mapping of Assessments to Intended Learning Outcomes:

Assessment: Translation & Commentary 1

Module weight: 25%

Purpose:  To enable students to develop critical and analytical skills in relation to translation practice- humanities text.

Learning Outcomes to be achieved: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

Assessment: Translation & Commentary 2

Purpose: To enable students to develop critical and analytical skills in relation to translation practice- scientific, technical or medical text.

Module Weight: 25%

Learning Outcomes to be achieved: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

Assessment: Coursework Essay

Module Weight:  50%

Purpose: To enable students to demonstrate skills of research, analysis and synthesis. This format tests a student’s ability to use the knowledge they have gained to respond to questions that must be developed and to apply knowledge and skills to construct coherent and convincing answers

Learning outcomes to be achieved: 1, 2, 4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Written Assessment 25 Translation & Commentary 1 N/A
Written Assessment 25 Translation & Commentary 2 N/A
Written Assessment 50 Essay N/A

Syllabus content

  1. Text typology for specialised translation
  2. Specialised translation procedures, strategies, techniques and methods
  3. Literary Translation
  4. Scientific and Technical translation
  5. Medical Translation
  6. Advertising and Commerce translation
  7. Translating official documents
  8. Legal translation
  9. Business and Economy translation
  10. Introduction to Interpreting
  11. Translation Software

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