Have you ever wanted to be good in Italian? Here are some ways to become the best in class.
Steps
Step 1. Read, read and read more and more
Always carry a book in your hand and read at any free time: between lessons, while queuing, when you eat, on the bus, etc. Read the classics of literature and, if you are feeling ambitious, even the poems (in particular, Leopardi).
Step 2. Read what other people, especially literary critics, say about the books you have read
Compare their opinions and decide which side to take.
Step 3. Share your views
When someone, be it a teacher or a classmate, asks you a question about the book you are reading, explain if you like it and why.
Step 4. Be specific
Instead of saying "Yes, that's impressive," make it clearer: "I like the way the author outlines the characters that seem to be opposites to each other …".
Step 5. Compare the situations you read in the books to real life situations
What statement does the author make about the company? Do you describe the company at the time you wrote the book? If so, does this description still hold true today and to what extent?
Step 6. Take notes
If, while reading, you come across a passage that somehow strikes you or really embodies the message of the book, stick a sticky tab on the page. The colored ones, such as "post-its" can be easily removed. Do not draw or underline the text directly. A teacher who sees the colored tabs sticking out of the assigned book will know that you are really working on the text. Additionally, you can copy the passage to a notebook or notebook, along with any thoughts, insights, or questions you may have.
Step 7. Join the class
Don't dominate the discussion, rather try to get other students to participate. Share your opinion when you feel it can add to the discussion. Don't raise your hand just to mention little insignificant facts. The best way to participate is to (1) share your views, (2) explain why you think the way you do, and (3) ask relevant questions.
Step 8. Write your own essay on literary criticism, whether it is intended for the Italian lesson or for personal culture
Read it aloud to see if the text flows smoothly and linearly. Correct your work by evaluating spelling errors and grammar - they are unforgivable for a good learner of Italian.
Step 9. Once you have finished writing your paper (or whatever you have developed), to check for spelling errors, turn on your computer and copy it into MS Word to check spelling and grammar
Sure, if the essay is long, it can take time, but at least you'll know if it's correct!
Step 10. If the teacher underlines a large part of your paper in blue, don't be afraid to ask him why he did it more than others
Or he just appreciates corrections, because they show that he considers you a little above others and expects more of you.
Step 11. When writing, feel free to express a point of view other than the main theme, but make sure it makes sense
For example, if you have to work out a comment on nature, get to write directly what and why you don't like it or develop the track on the top ten things that make you nervous about this topic.
Step 12. Read the paper or rewrite it aloud
Read it to friends, family or even your dog. Don't be in a hurry - take a break every now and then. Point out any parts you find difficult to read aloud, and once you're done, go back and clarify. Often the easiest way to simplify what you write is to break it down into shorter sentences.
Step 13. Exchange submissions with your classmates
Get them to give you an honest evaluation. It may be that the teacher has no time other than to rate your work, but your peers will be able to talk to you in depth about what you have written and the points you have developed.
Advice
- A fictional story or experience is fine as long as it is relevant and proves your thesis. It's not like the teacher will call your family and friends to see if what you wrote really happened. But make sure it's well written, realistic, doesn't describe illegal activities, etc.
- When you come across an unfamiliar word, look it up in the dictionary and try using it in a sentence.
- Teachers prefer to read an interesting topic rather than a boring one.
- Why not try joining an online writing club to share your work and get advice?
- When writing, use the dictionary of synonyms and antonyms! It will help you improve your vocabulary (see Warnings).
- Make sure you know the famous authors well.
- Learn Latin and Greek, as they will help you understand the meaning and origin of difficult words when you don't have an Italian dictionary at hand.
Warnings
- When compiling the dictionary of synonyms and antonyms, do not use high-sounding words in the text just because you found them listed. Make sure you know what words to say exactly. Just because they are synonyms does not mean that they have the same and precise meaning. Search for a new word before using it.
- Regarding the topic in the classroom, do not argue with the teacher about insignificant things, as he may get irritated if you are too picky.
- Don't read while walking. Even if you show your dedication, you risk hitting someone, something or, even worse, getting hit by a car.
