Dive into Italian language and culture with a native and experienced teacher

Find out more about Simona

• 1) Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  1. Italian is my native language, but my passion for teaching it actually began during my school days. I had an Italian language and literature teacher who didn't just teach the rules—she shared the very soul of words. That’s when I realized that Italian isn’t just about grammar; it’s a passionate way of looking at the world.

• 2) Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  2. To represent Italian culture, I’d choose two figures who seem worlds apart but are deeply connected by their power of expression: Leonardo da Vinci and Massimo Troisi. Leonardo is the emblem of limitless curiosity and the genius that made Italy a cultural beacon; he represents the precision and beauty of our heritage. Massimo Troisi, on the other hand, embodies the sweetest, most humble, and witty soul of our language. His ability to convey deep emotions with just a few words (and plenty of silences) reminds us that Italian is more than just a set of rules—his gestures and irony perfectly show how the language comes to life through the body and heart.

• 3) Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  3. I love the word "Azzurro." It’s more than just a color; it’s a concept that captures the sky, the sea, and our very identity (just think of our national teams). It’s also the title of one of Italy’s most iconic songs, evoking a sense of nostalgia and daydreaming. It’s a word that’s hard to translate accurately—it isn't just "light blue," it’s a nuance of the soul. Another expression I love teaching is "Ti voglio bene." Unlike many languages that have only one verb for love, Italian distinguishes between romantic passion and the deep affection we feel for friends and family. Literally, it means "I wish you well," and it’s a pure, heartfelt declaration of care.

• 4) Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  4. Speaking Italian gives you the keys to an immense heritage: from opera and design to gourmet food and art history. It’s a language that allows you to connect with people in a truly deep and warm way.

• 5) What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  5. The biggest challenge is often verb conjugations and getting the pronouns right. The secret? Immersion. I always encourage my students to listen to podcasts, watch movies, and—most importantly—not be afraid to make mistakes. Italian is a language that rewards anyone with a genuine desire to communicate.

• 6) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  6. I still remember when, in primary school, I learned that the word libro (book) comes from the Latin liber, which also means "free." That link between reading and freedom changed my perspective on learning. Today, I try to help my students feel that same sense of freedom when they finally express a complex thought in Italian.

• 7) How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  7. Every time I travel through Italy’s regions, I’m reminded of how alive and varied the language is. The different dialects and accents from North to South have taught me that Italian is a mosaic of cultures. Knowing these nuances allows me to offer my students an authentic experience, moving beyond the standard textbook approach.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof in language?

  8. What makes me a "Superprof" is my patience and ability to listen. Every student has their own pace and interests, so my goal is to create a tailor-made experience. My lessons aren't monologues; they are constant dialogues that lead to linguistic independence—with a healthy dose of irony and fun along the way.