This course aims to develop students' oral expression and listening comprehension through the exploration of current affairs and topical issues in both the British and American contexts. Students will be taught to express themselves with greater fluency and nuance on a variety of subjects inspired by media documents—occasionally from the press, but more frequently audio and video sources—addressing contemporary social, economic, cultural, political, environmental, and even sporting matters. Grammar and vocabulary will also be reinforced to help make students' speech more fluid, natural, and precise.
Objectives
By the end of the course, students will have:
• Enhanced their comprehension skills on key contemporary issues
• Demonstrated the ability to understand and analyse differing viewpoints in context, and
• Improved their skills in delivering engaging presentations and in being persuasive during discussions and debates
The two-hour weekly seminar over 12 weeks per semester will consist of:
• Oral comprehension exercises
• Active interaction and discussion
• Student presentations and debates.
Assessment and Final Grade
Students will receive three grades based on Comprehension Oral expression and Active participation.
Course Requirements
Students are expected to:
• Build stamina and focus when engaging with unfamiliar topics and also to
• Prepare carefully for presentations and discussions.
Libraries
Practical information
