Green.Glasses.EU - Penna in Teverina
Lerning Journey Penna in Teverina: Parla Verde
The Art of Green Living and Speaking
What if learning a language meant living it? Parla Verde connects language learning with sustainability and real life. Instead of studying vocabulary only in a classroom, participants learn language in action - in the garden, in the kitchen, in the village and in conversations with local people. The programme takes place on a permaculture farm in Umbria, where learning happens by a combination of sturtured language input and experience by planting, cooking, observing and reflecting. Language becomes a tool for communication, cooperation and discovery. At the same time, participants explore Green Living - a slower, more connected way of life shaped by nature, shared moments and meaningful encounters. Parla Verde shifts the focus from problems to possibilities: from climate fatigue to climate agency. It is not a regular language course - but a living laboratory for language, sustainability and new ways of learning. You will discover your own most effective learning style as we offer a range of innovative methods and learning environments: study under an olive tree, practise vocabulary while walking through the fields, and absorb key phrases along an outdoor parcours with bilingual posters.
Learning Language Through Life and in Nature.
Each day begins with two hours of structured Italian lessons with a language teacher, focusing on practical communication and vocabulary related to food, farming and sustainability. This learning continues directly on the farm and in village-life with various activities - four hours a day: While harvesting olives, cooking regional dishes or visiting the village bar, participants practice the language they have just learned. Short “word harvest” moments at the end of activities help collect new expressions and reflect on real conversations.
Green Living: Learning Slower, Learning Deeper
Parla Verde offers a learning rhythm that contrasts with the fast and digital pace of everyday life: Morning language lessons are followed by workshops and hands-on activities on the farm. Learning happens while walking through the landscape, cooking together or observing ecological systems. Research on nature-based learning and “green exercise” shows that natural environments and informal learning-opportunities improve concentration and motivation. Daily reflection circles and storytelling moments help participants connect language learning with their experiences.
From Climate Fatigue to Climate Agency
Many people feel overwhelmed by climate debates. Parla Verde offers another perspective. Instead of focusing on the ecological footprint, the programme highlights the handprint - the positive impact individuals can create through everyday actions. Workshops on the farm explore topics such as biodiversity, soil health and water management, linking local practices with global climate challenges.
Participants return home with new language skills, practical ideas and stories they can share in their own communities.
A living laboratory for language and sustainability
The permaculture farm becomes a living laboratory for experiential and intense learning. Participants learn the language and apply it while they explore regenerative farming, biodiversity and climate resilience through workshops and simple field activities guided by the farm team. Encounters with local residents and changemakers create authentic opportunities for conversation and cultural exchange. Cooking together, exploring the landscape and sharing daily experiences make language learning social, practical and connected to real life.
