Linguistics: An Introduction to Contrastive Linguistics for Translators Field of study: English Studies: Culture-Media-Translation
Programme code: W1-S1FC25.2025

Module name: Linguistics: An Introduction to Contrastive Linguistics for Translators
Module code: W1-FCS1-J-MJK-3
Programme code: W1-S1FC25.2025
Semester: summer semester 2026/2027
Language of instruction: English
Form of verification: course work
ECTS credits: 2
Purpose and description of the content of education:
The aim of the module is to introduce students to the fundamental issues of contrastive linguistics in the context of written and audiovisual translation. The module focuses on analysing differences and similarities between Polish and English in grammatical, syntactic, lexical, and pragmatic structures that are crucial for written translations as well as translations for film, television, video games, and other forms of audiovisual media. During the course, students will learn contrastive analysis techniques useful for adapting content to the technical and cultural constraints specific to audiovisual translation, such as dialogue synchronisation, subtitling, and dubbing. The module develops the ability to consciously recognise potential linguistic and cultural challenges and prepares students to apply appropriate translation strategies in practical work.
List of modules that must be completed before starting this module (if necessary): not applicable
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
demonstrates openness to linguistic and cultural diversity and understands the importance of adapting the content of translated written texts in English and Polish, particularly cultural and media texts, to audiences in different social and cultural contexts [K01]
 FC_K03 [1/5] FC_K04 [2/5]
conducts basic contrastive analyses of Polish and English texts, identifying significant differences and similarities relevant to the translation process [U01]
 FC_U02 [2/5] FC_U03 [2/5] FC_U04 [2/5]
selects and applies translation strategies appropriate for written and audiovisual translation in English and Polish, taking into account technical and cultural constraints [U02]
 FC_U03 [2/5] FC_U07 [1/5]
identifies potential linguistic and cultural challenges arising from differences between English and Polish and proposes appropriate solutions in translation work [U03]
 FC_U03 [2/5] FC_U07 [2/5]
knows the fundamental concepts, theories, and methods of contrastive linguistics in relation to Polish and English, with particular emphasis on structures relevant to written and audiovisual translation [W01]
 FC_W01 [4/5] FC_W02 [2/5] FC_W08 [4/5]
understands the technical and cultural constraints characteristic of audiovisual translation, such as synchronisation, text length, and cultural adaptation [W02]
 FC_W01 [2/5] FC_W02 [2/5] FC_W08 [4/5] FC_W09 [2/5]
Form of teaching Number of hours Methods of conducting classes Assessment of the learning outcomes Learning outcomes
practical classes [C] 30 Explanation/clarification [a05] 
Activating method – discussion / debate [b04] 
Activating methods: a case study [b07] 
Activating method – peer learning [b08] 
Screen presentation [c07] 
Working with a computer [d01]  		course work K01 U01 U02 U03 W01 W02
The student's work, apart from participation in classes, includes in particular:
Name Category Description
Literature reading / analysis of source materials [a02] Preparation for classes
reading the literature indicated in the syllabus; reviewing, organizing, analyzing and selecting source materials to be used in class
Production/preparation of tools, materials or documentation necessary for class participation [a05] Preparation for classes
developing, preparing and assessing the usefulness of tools and materials (e.g. aids, scenarios, research tools, equipment, etc.) to be employed in class or as an aid when preparing for classes
Studying the literature used in and the materials produced in class [c02] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
exploring the studied content, inquiring, considering, assimilating, interpreting it, or organizing knowledge obtained from the literature, documentation, instructions, scenarios, etc., used in class as well as from the notes or other materials/artifacts made in class
Implementation of an individual or group assignment necessary for course/phase/examination completion [c03] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
a set of activities aimed at performing an assigned task, to be executed out of class, as an obligatory phase/element of the verification of the learning outcomes assigned to the course
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)