851-0886-00L  New Zealand Through Literature and Film (C1-C2)

SemesterSpring Semester 2017
LecturersM. Norgate
Periodicityevery semester recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish
CommentYour course regristration is only valid with a simultaneous online registration at the language center (Link).


AbstractThe course is designed for non-native English speakers at Bachelor and Master level from all disciplines who wish to gain an insight into New Zealand culture, history, and society through its rich tradition in film and literature, while improving their English language skills further towards C2.
ObjectiveThe aim is to explore the following questions through texts and film as a means of introducing students to New Zealand and, in a broader sense, to raise their awareness of some of the key issues relating to former colonies from early settlement to the present day. Key questions include: What did New Zealand mean to its early settlers? Where did they come from? How did they live? What is the Treaty of Waitangi, and what is its status today? How did New Zealanders see themselves then, and how do they see themselves now?

Students will learn the discourse used, and issues under consideration, in the analysis and discussion of poetry, prose, and film. They will become aware of various ways of "reading" texts and film, and will improve their skills in planning and writing cohesive essays in which they marshal their views in a convincing and formal manner. Overall, the aims are that students become more discerning readers, improve their skills in expressing their views in written and spoken form clearly and concisely, and gain an understanding of the importance of literature and film to the development of a uniquely New Zealand identity.
ContentThe course gives a chronological view - through literature and film - of New Zealand's history from pre-European settlement to the present day. Materials discussed include selected poems, a novel, short stories, articles, and films. A key focus is the way New Zealanders' notion of their own identity has shifted over the years, as expressed by the country's film-makers and writers working in English, and to a limited degree, in Maori (English translations are provided).
Lecture notesHandouts and DVDs
LiteratureMaterials are available online and at the Language Center's Self-Access Center (more information is given in the first lesson)
Prerequisites / NoticeOther requirements: All participants are expected to:
* Attend regularly throughout the semester
* Participate actively in discussions, group work, and pair work
* Do at least 3 hours' work per week outside the classroom, including reading and writing
* Complete written assignments and give a short presentation

Additional requirements for Bachelor and Master students and those who wish to receive ETH/D-GESS credit points or certificates will be given in the first lesson of the semester.

Important note:
The course is only open to students who register online via the Sprachenzentrum website during the registration period (review the SZ website) and who receive online confirmation that they have been accepted on this course.