module specification

This module is designed for students to advance their English language skills up to the level required for their study.  The module focuses on improving students’ English language skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening up to Common European Framework of Reference level B2. There is a strong focus on vocabulary development, language accuracy and acquiring effective learning strategies.

EASE test 40 or B1 Common European Framework

Students will:
• develop their spoken and written  English, express opinions and take part in discussions and seminars  at B2 level
• read and listen to  a variety of subject areas and identify both main points and detail
• expand their passive and active vocabulary
• identify and use appropriate register in written texts and speaking.
• develop their knowledge of academic English in relation to their studies

Lexis and phrasing – to include the understanding and appropriate use of:
Idioms and phrasal verbs, metaphor and simile, prefixes , word building, common collocations, and academic English vocabulary in various lexical fields.

Language structure- the following will be analysed and used in a variety of contexts:

• Verb patterns
• Continuous aspect
• Future forms

Reading and writing – students will study a number of texts from different sources and:

• identify and critically analyse finer points of detail including attitudes and implied as well as stated opinions
• write clear, well-structured texts of complex subjects at the appropriate level of proficiency (B2)
• support points of view at some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples from outside sources
• write in a number of different styles, such as reports, letters, reviews and essays

Listening- students will be introduced to a variety of authentic sources at the appropriate level and:
• achieve comprehension, including listening for main points
• check comprehension by using contextual clues
• infer attitude, mood and intentions and anticipate what will come next

Speaking – students will:
• identify and improve areas of weak pronunciation
• practise interacting appropriately in a variety of formal and informal situations
• present information, including expanding and supporting points of view at a B2 level

The module will be delivered through a blended learning strategy. Information and activities to support and further develop the skills required to pass the module will be offered on WebLearn and other media.  Students will be provided with extensive individual feedback through WebLearn and email, as well as face to face.  Opportunities to reflect on learning and progress are built into the module.

On successful completion of the module, the students will:
A:  Demonstrate an understanding of the methods and conventions of summary and paraphrase
B:  Demonstrate competency in spoken English proficiency at a CEFR B2 level.
C:  Read widely and research a given topic using electronic and paper based  resources
D:  Use strategies for the acquisition of vocabulary and textual awareness in various contexts: e.g literature , journalism, medicine and  environment

Class test: reading, use of English and writing (Learning outcomes A,D)
Coursework:  written assignment: essay, report or article (Learning outcomes C)
Individual presentations: presentation of a modified text and a reasoned commentary on basis of brief. (Learning outcome B)
Formative assessment is conducted by class tests and homework

Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (2005) Cambridge, CUP
Glendinning, E and Halstrom, B(1992) Study Reading, Cambridge, CUP
MacCarthy M and O’Dell, F (2007) English Phrasal Verbs in Use Advanced, Cambridge, CUP
New Oxford Dictionary of English (2003) Oxford, OUP
Thomas, BJ (1995) Advanced Vocabulary and Idiom, Essex, Pearson Longman
Thornbury, S, (2004) Natural Grammar, Oxford, OUP
Vince, M and Sunderland, P (2003) Advanced Language Practice with key, Oxford, Macmillan
Wilson, JJ and Clare, A (2007) Total English Advanced, Essex, Pearson Longman
On –Line short stories
http://www.short-stories.co.uk/
Academic English
http://www.prepareforsuccess.org.uk/