ML2203: Introduction to Specialised Translation
| School | Translation |
| Department Code | MLANG |
| Module Code | ML2203 |
| External Subject Code | 101130 |
| Number of Credits | 15 |
| Level | L5 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Carlos Sanz Mingo |
| Semester | Spring Semester |
| Academic Year | 2020/1 |
Outline Description of Module
LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE
The module aims to provide students with knowledge of the basic methodological steps to translate specialised texts. Lectures are complemented with specific language seminars where students will be able to practice different translation skills and methods.
Different types of texts will be worked on in order to understand the process of translation in different styles and languages.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
- Understand the principles guiding the translation of specialised texts;
- Have a basic knowledge of the methods to translate specialised texts;
- Understand the specific textual features of different specialised translation fields;
- Apply the training gained on the module to the translation of short and simple specialised texts;
- Reflect critically on their own translation practice;
- Demonstrate appropriate use of translation resources and tools.
How the module will be delivered
- Weekly lectures
- Language specific seminars (Practice of translation)
- Translation Software workshops
Skills that will be practised and developed
- Display a comprehensive understanding of basic translation methods and tools applicable to specialised texts;
- Apply appropriate translation methods to produce the translation of short and simple specialised texts;
- Demonstrate appropriate use of translation tools and resources;
- Demonstrate skills of communication and reflection through participation in the seminars of translation practice.
- Understand the grammar of the SL and the TL and the nuances when translating texts of specialised nature.
How the module will be assessed
Translation 1 - 30% - Week 7 (to be confirmed with the students)
Translation 2 - 30% - Week 12 Spring semester
Essay - 40% - 1200 words - Week 12 Spring semester
THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:
ERASMUS students studying here only one of the semesters will be reassessed through a portfolio of translations.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Assessment | 30 | Translation 1 | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 30 | Translation 2 | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 40 | Essay | N/A |
Syllabus content
NB. Below is an indicative syllabus, which may vary depending on the semester the student will be here:
- Text typology for specialised translation;
- Specialised translation procedures, strategies, techniques and methods;
- Scientific and Technical translation;
- Advertising and Commerce translation;
- Translating official documents;
- Legal translation;
- Medical translation;
- Literary translation;
- Business and Economy translation;
- Introduction to Interpreting;
- Translation Software
Essential Reading and Resource List
- Byrne, J. (2006) Technical Translation: Usability Strategies for Translating Technical Documentation, Dordrecht: Springer.
- Cao, D. (2007) Translating Law, Bristol: Multilingual Matters.
- Gotti M. and Sarcevic S. (2006) Insights into Specialized Translation, Bern: Lang.
- Orero, P. (2004) Topics in Audiovisual Translation, Amsterdam/Philadelphia: John Benjamins.
- Robinson, D. (2004) Becoming a translator: An Introduction to the Theory and Practice of Translation, London: Routledge.
Background Reading and Resource List
In the St. Jerome ‘Translation Practice Explained’ series:
Translating Promotional and Advertising Texts
Translating Official Documents
Legal Translation Explained
Medical Translation Step by Step