WORKSHOPS
LANGUAGES :
CREATIVE TRANSLATION – Participants translate an excerpt of a foreign-language work, typically a poem or extract from a short story. I will introduce the text, participants will then draft and edit translations. Afterwards, they work on a piece of creative writing or art in response to what they have translated. Glossaries are provided so prior knowledge of the language is not necessary. (This workshop is offered in any language.)
LANGUAGES & CAREERS – Participants start with a warm-up translation of job adverts. They then form groups to research companies and dream jobs, before writing a cover letter and creating a mock interview. Crib sheets of useful phrases are provided. (This workshop is currently offered in German, Spanish, and French, with the possibility of running different languages simultaneously.)
CODE-SWITCHING – The focus of this workshop is on texts that weave together multiple languages or dialects. I will introduce the basics of code-switching, participants will then look at and discuss a selection of texts that involve code-switching. Afterwards, they create their own code-switching writing. (This can also be an English-only workshop, using regional dialects or slang and standard English.)
ENGLISH -> ENGLISH – I will introduce the concept of same-language translation. Participants will then look at texts in different styles of English (for instance, Shakespearean, Caribbean, AAVE), then translate these texts into alternative forms of English.
BIAS IN TRANSLATION – We begin with an introductory discussion on bias in translation before participants look at and discuss different translations of the same text. They will then translate a text themselves and evaluate afterwards how and why their translations differ from each other’s. Glossaries are provided so prior knowledge of the language is not necessary.
TRANSLATION & AI – We begin with an introductory discussion on AI translation. Participants will then be given a text to translate. They will first attempt a “human” translation (using provided glossaries) before they run the text through machine translation. We will discuss the results as a group.
CREATIVE WRITING :
POETRY – We tackle one poem in depth with a tutorial-style discussion. Participants then write their own poetry, reprising either the themes or style of the poem discussed. There will be a scaffolded option offered for support, as well as the option to write more freely.
This workshop can be designed to fit a specific theme or event, or it can be more general. Examples of past sessions include multilingual children’s poetry, poetry for ESOL creative writing students, and bilingual poetry for Bi+ poets.
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TALKS
CAREERS IN LANGUAGES – This is typically for Sixth Form and Fifth Form groups. It gives an insight into the value of languages in the working world and gives the students an opportunity to ask questions about future careers, as well as studying languages at university.
LANGUAGE TASTER SESSIONS – This is an introduction to a language. It involves a brief overview of relevant history and culture and gives participants an opportunity to explore a previously unfamiliar language.
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ADDITIONAL INFO
These sessions can be run with language learners or heritage speakers at any age.
If you would like more than one workshop on any given day, I am happy to run an informal Q&A session/talk as well. If done in a school, this can be arranged during an assembly or lunchtime slot.
All workshops are designed to last around 2-2.5 hours, but this can be adapted.
Talks are usually 30 mins-1 hour.
Workshops can be run in any language, as long as texts are available, and I am always happy to tailor workshops and talks to your specific needs. Do get in touch for more information on the languages offered, fees, or any further details!