Glossary
Analyze
To examine something in detail to understand its nature or determine its essential features and relationships.
Example:
You will need to analyze how geography affects the quality of life in different Italian regions.
Bellezza ed estetica / Beauty and Aesthetics
The appreciation of beauty in art, nature, and daily life, and the principles governing artistic taste and design.
Example:
From fashion to architecture, Italy is renowned for its deep appreciation of bellezza ed estetica.
Common Pitfalls
Frequent mistakes or errors that students often make on the exam, which should be avoided.
Example:
A common pitfall is not addressing all parts of the prompt, leading to lost points.
Compare/contrast
An analytical approach that examines similarities and differences between two or more subjects.
Example:
On the exam, you might need to compare/contrast leisure activities in Italian cities versus rural areas.
Cultural context
The social, historical, and environmental factors that surround a particular event, idea, or statement, and which help to understand it.
Example:
When discussing Italian food, it's important to consider the cultural context of fresh, local ingredients.
Cultural differences
Variations in customs, beliefs, values, and social behaviors between different groups or nations.
Example:
The cultural differences in meal times between Italy and the US highlight distinct approaches to daily routines.
Economic inequality
The uneven distribution of wealth and opportunities among individuals or groups within a society.
Example:
Efforts to reduce economic inequality are crucial for improving the overall quality of life for all citizens.
Examples
Specific instances or illustrations used to support and elaborate on claims or arguments.
Example:
Always use concrete examples from Italian culture or daily life to strengthen your arguments in the FRQ.
Express opinions
To articulate one's personal views, beliefs, or judgments on a given topic.
Example:
The prompt might ask you to express your opinions on the role of advertising in Italian culture.
Health issues
Problems related to physical or mental well-being that affect individuals or public health.
Example:
Public health campaigns in Italy aim to address rising health issues like obesity, even with a traditional healthy diet.
Language
Refers to the effective and accurate use of vocabulary, grammar, and syntax in written or spoken communication.
Example:
Strong language skills, including varied vocabulary and correct verb conjugations, will boost your FRQ score.
Quality of Life
The general well-being of individuals and societies, encompassing factors like health, comfort, happiness, and access to resources.
Example:
A high quality of life in Italy might include access to fresh food and strong family ties.
Scienza e tecnologia / Science and Technology
The advancements and applications of scientific knowledge and technological innovations that influence daily life and societal progress.
Example:
The rapid development of AI is transforming scienza e tecnologia and raising new ethical questions in Italy.
Sfide globali / Global Challenges
Significant issues affecting societies worldwide, such as economic instability, environmental concerns, or health crises.
Example:
Addressing climate change is one of the most pressing sfide globali that Italy, with its long coastline, faces.
Socioeconomic factors
Elements related to social and economic status that influence an individual's or group's quality of life, such as income, education, and social class.
Example:
Understanding the socioeconomic factors in southern Italy helps explain regional differences in employment rates.
Technology influence
The impact of technological advancements on daily routines, communication, work, and overall societal well-being.
Example:
The technology influence on education has transformed learning methods, with more students using online resources.
Thesis
A concise statement that presents the main argument or controlling idea of an essay or response.
Example:
Your thesis statement should clearly answer the prompt and set the direction for your essay.
Time management
The process of organizing and planning how to divide your time between specific activities to maximize efficiency.
Example:
Effective time management during the exam means allocating enough time for each section, especially the FRQs.
Vita contemporanea / Contemporary Life
Refers to daily routines, social interactions, and modern aspects of life in Italian-speaking communities.
Example:
Exploring how social media impacts vita contemporanea in Rome reveals both connections and distractions.