German to English Translation: Methodology and Practice - LAN00011H

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25

Module summary

This module introduces core principles and practices of translation from German into English. You will learn about different types of translation from a real-world context, discuss some of the issues relevant to the profession, and have the opportunity to engage with a range of texts, reflecting on your own output and exploring the specificities of this language combination.

Related modules

Pre-requisite module

German Language and Cultures: Advanced

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

This module aims to:

  • introduce students to the concepts, practices and issues of translation

  • explore some of the issues specific to translation from German into British English

  • develop the ability to engage with difficult concepts

  • guide students in being able to translate a variety of texts and reflect on their production

  • develop skills in analysing written German texts and other content such as commentary

  • develop the ability to formulate a balanced, coherent argument.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of this module students should be able to:

  • discuss issues relating to translation generally and/or from German into English specifically

  • reflect critically on their translation production, referencing concepts and terminology specific to Translation Studies

  • comment critically on the translation output of others, giving valid bases for their assertions

  • formulate a balanced, coherent argument referencing relevant literature.

Module content

Lecture topics include: Issues of translation; Contexts of translation (e.g. journalistic, technical, literary); Translation quality; Perceptions of translation; Technology and the translator; Interpreting

Follow-up seminars will explore lecture topics in greater depth. Practical seminars will provide opportunity for real-world translation tasks across a wide variety of text types and genres, while working to compile the translation portfolio during the course of the module.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 40
Essay/coursework 60

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Formative feedback

Oral feedback given in class or in writing for tasks completed as part of the lecture follow-up seminars. Three sets of written feedback for weekly submitted translations, spread throughout the module.

Summative feedback

Written feedback to be provided with the university mandated time limit.

Indicative reading

  • Baker, M. (2011). In other words. London: Routledge

  • Hatim, B., & Munday, J. (2004). Translation: an advanced resource book. London: Routledge

  • Hervey, S., Higgins, I. & Loughridge M. (2005). Thinking German Translation. London: Routledge

  • Munday, J. (2009). The Routledge companion to Translation Studies. London: Routledge

  • Munday, J. (2008). Introducing Translation Studies: theories and applications. Oxon: Routledge

  • Newmark, P. (1988). A textbook of translation. New York: Prentice-Hall International

  • Nida, E. (2003). Toward a science of translating : with special reference to principles and procedures involved in Bible translating. Leiden: E.J. Brill