Advanced Communication Skills in English I

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

All teaching will be student-centered, involving group- and pair work, simulations, etc.

Learning Outcomes

This course aims to interest and inform students about a wide range of popular topics through a variety of authentic texts. Whether or not students are preparing for an advanced-level exam, the course tasks provide thorough practice in all four skills. Each lesson focuses on one main skill but includes tasks which give students the opportunity to practice other skills. For example, in a speaking unit, students may be asked to read a text and then have a discussion about it, or describe the subject of the text in their own words, thereby using reading and speaking skills; or, in a listening unit, students may use a listening text as the basis for a writing task. This integrated skills approach will be of great benefit to students and help them to develop their four skills simultaneously as they would in real life. Students who frequent this course should have completed an upper intermediate general course book, and/or have passed the Cambridge FCE or an equivalent exam.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

The main aim of the lessons will be to develop aspects of the speaking skill, such as: social language (through simulations of social and/or professional situations); informal conversation (through analysis and reproduction of turn-taking, etc); debating techniques; public speaking, and pronunciation (sounds, stress-patterning, intonation). Written and recorded texts will be used in the lessons, not only to offer a springboard for oral activities, but also to develop comprehension skills. Writing skills will also be covered if the class shows an interest in this aspect.

Head Lecturer(s)

Sheena Jean Caldwell

Assessment Methods

Assessement
Continuous assessment based upon progress made in the various skills (and which will include aspects such as participation, motivation and attendance). Classwork: 75% Final Exam: 25%: 100.0%

Bibliography

Haines, S. (2006). Advanced Skills, a resource book of advanced-level skills activities. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.