Program Structure
You will work on chapters 1, 2 and 3 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills.
You will work on chapters 4, 5 and 6 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills.
You will work on chapters 7, 8 and 9 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills.
You will work on chapter 10 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will review the entire book as a strengthening exercise. You will also read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills.
You will review your grammar knowledges and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills.
This in-person class is for learners who have accomplished an intermediate level and wish to continue exploring newer aspects of the Italian grammar, strengthening their oral and phonetic skills, and going deeper into the current language and culture of Italy.
Caffè Corretto is a special class we’ve created with Mattia, designed to make learning Italian as effortless and enjoyable as sipping a good cup of coffee.
In this class, Mattia will guide students in reading, speaking, and engaging in meaningful discussions about a renowned Italian book, helping them enhance their language skills naturally and effectively.
In the Winter Term – Session 1, students will read “Bella mia”, Donatella Di Pietrantonio, a powerful novel set in post-earthquake L’Aquila that explores themes of grief, resilience, and sisterhood through the author’s evocative and lyrical prose. The book offers a rich opportunity to deepen linguistic skills while gaining insight into contemporary Italian society and emotions expressed through literature.
Join us for an immersive Italian learning experience, where literature and conversation blend seamlessly—just like a perfectly made caffè corretto.
Join us for an exclusive 7-week advanced reading group starting January 14th, where we will discover the novel “Resto qui” by Marco Balzano.
Guided by our experienced instructor, Martina, you’ll engage in in-depth discussions to explore this moving and beautifully written novel set in Trentino’s Val Venosta. Inspired by real events, Resto qui tells the story of Trina, a teacher who defies Fascist censorship and witnesses her village submerged beneath the waters of a new dam. Through her eyes, Balzano gives voice to a community struggling to preserve its identity and language in the face of oppression and loss.
Balzano’s prose, both poetic and direct, opens a window onto Italy’s turbulent 20th century and the quiet heroism of ordinary people. The book invites readers to reflect on belonging, resistance, and the meaning of home — themes that will inspire rich linguistic and cultural discussion throughout the course.
This group is perfect for advanced learners eager to challenge their Italian through rich literary analysis and meaningful conversation, while exploring themes of power, morality, family ties, and the societal undercurrents of contemporary Italy.
A series of 10 classes, 2 hours each, dedicated to studying, reading, and discussing one of the most significant works of Italian literature.
In the Winter Term, the group will focus on the book “Francesco e Nunziata” by Maria Orsini Natale.
Set in the early 20th century along the sun-drenched coast of southern Italy, this novel tells the story of a Neapolitan family bound by love, ambition, and sacrifice. Through the lives of Francesco and Nunziata, Orsini Natale paints a vivid portrait of Italy in transformation — a country balancing between tradition and modernity, between the values of the past and the challenges of a new industrial age.
A masterpiece of contemporary Italian literature, Francesco e Nunziata is not only a love story but also a reflection on social class, gender, and the resilience of human bonds. Reading this novel offers students a chance to deepen their understanding of Italian culture and language through expressive, emotionally rich prose that brings the complexities of family, history, and identity to life.
Under Mattia’s guidance, you will discover the subtle layers of Orsini Natale’s storytelling — exploring the language, symbolism, and historical context that shape the novel’s emotional depth. Each class will blend literary analysis with lively discussion, helping you connect personally with the characters while enriching your vocabulary and cultural understanding.
Gianna will guide you on a journey of discovery through Italy, with each Term focusing on a distinct region.
Region and book for the Winter Term: coming soon!
Through the pages of this carefully selected book, along with short videos and class discussions, you’ll explore Italy’s regional culture, traditions, and contemporary issues, all while improving your Italian language skills. The course encourages conversation and analysis, offering a dynamic and immersive learning experience.
In addition to reading and discussion, you’ll also review key grammar topics, using the book and videos as a springboard for natural, engaging conversation.
Join us for this unique exploration of Italy—one region, one story at a time!
A 10$ nonrefundable registration fee will be automatically added at checkout.
Books are not included in the enrollment price.
DISCOUNTS
BRING A FRIEND: If you enroll with a friend (new to IIS), you both get a 10% discount
ENROLL IN 2 GROUPS: if you enroll in 2 groups in the same Term, you will get a 15% discount on the second group's enrollment (the less expensive)
PRIVATE CLASSES: if you are enrolled in a group, you can purchase private classes with a 10% discount
BULK REGISTRATION: if you enroll in 2 or more Terms at the same time, you will not pay the $10 registration fee and will get an additional 10% discount
To get these discounts, send an email to italianschool@sfiis.org