Interpreting class in a (semester) nutshell (teaching proposals)

Abstract

The articles focuses on teaching interpreting. It presents exercise proposals to be implemented on interpreting classes; the subject per se closes the translation and interpreting module at Russian Studies at the Nicolaus Copernicus University. Classes are divided into three parts, focusing on a vista, consecutive and simultaneous interpreting, respectively.  As far as each of those categories is concerned, a short theoretical introduction is followed by carefully selected exercises comprising both the preparation stage and interpreting proper. Interpreting proper consists in interpreting tasks performed after preparing a glossary and familiarizing with a fieldrelated vocabulary; later on these exercises are performed without the aforementioned preparation. The preparation stage is focused on training speed, memory as well as on producing coherent, logical and appropriate utterances. The exercises suggested and implemented are the starting point for subsequent self-training. The class syllabus includes materials of varying degrees of difficulty, e.g. legal, commercial, scientific, technical, business, environment, or current issues. The article also addresses types of errors, the role of correction and evaluative commentary as well as psychological aspects in teaching interpreting.