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Spanish to English Translation: Methodology and Practice - LAN00029H

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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 Spanish 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.

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 Spanish 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 Spanish 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 Spanish 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 (literary, legal, journalistic, etc); Translating the Hispanophone world; Interpreting; Translation quality; Perceptions of translation; Technology and the translator; Ethics.

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 along 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 for tasks and weekly assignments completed as part of Seminars 1 and 2. Students will also receive oral/written feedback on their draft versions of portfolio pieces 1 and 2, which can then be revised prior to final submission.

Summative feedback

Written feedback within the university mandated time limit.

Indicative reading

  • Aranda, L. (2007). Handbook of Spanish-English translation. Lanham, MD: University Press of America

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

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

  • Haywood, L., Thompson, M., & Hervey, S. (2013). Thinking Spanish translation. Oxon: 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


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.