Module BIC-0023:
English for IIM Preparation 2

Module Facts

Run by Bangor University International College

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1 & 2

Organiser:

Overall aims and purpose

The aim of the module is to continue to develop the existing English language ability of international students to prepare them for study at master’s level at Bangor University, in particular, raise students’ measurable performance from a minimum of 5.5 IELTS to further increase linguistic competence and boost confidence to a higher level in the use of English in the context of postgraduate studies. The module’s approach aims to ensure that linguistic ability ensures successful engagement in academic courses at level 7. Students develop further their deployment of the advanced skills of critical thinking, evaluation and creative engagement with study materials in helping them pose and solve problems. Students are introduced to further strategies and techniques that will enable them to function better as self-directed and autonomous learners.

Course content

The module, as with English for Master’s Preparation 1, is structured as an intensive language and study skills course aimed at supporting students as they prepare for their postgraduate studies. This module builds on, extends and develops both language and academic study skills that the students already possess from their prior studies, including for some, English for Master’s Preparation 1. Discourse channels continue to be developed as specified in published IELTS band-descriptors, especially, for this module, IELTS band 7. Students develop their oral and aural skills by appreciating the variety of language styles and purposes, listening for specific information and for attitude and with anticipation, adopting appropriate conventions of tone and behaviour in academic discussions and seminars, managing misunderstandings and engaging in clear and effective communication, able to evaluate their own and others. More advanced EAP skills in written language are taught, including answering complex and probing questions on reading texts, review of lexis and grammar structures used to present factual information in essay form, presentation and practice of advanced language structures and lexis to write factual and discursive essays, review and practice of note-taking from reading texts, using symbols, charts, contracted forms of words and phrases, abbreviations and page layouts and the development of vocabulary building strategies and grammar usage within the context of Business Studies at postgraduate level. Further aspects of British Culture are covered, including higher education There is an introduction to more advanced academic study skills, including the differences between bad academic practice and plagiarism, use of Turnitin, effective use of a range of sources of study materials; research method organisation skills, critical thinking, independent learning, a reflective, self-evaluative approach to learning and effective preparation for presentations and examinations.

Assessment Criteria

threshold

Threshold (D- to D+) (40-49%) Demonstrate a basic understanding of some of the material and techniques studied and apply the study skills developed sufficiently to attain a satisfactory standard and achieve a pass grade in the module.

excellent

Excellent (A- to A*) (70-100%) Demonstrate across all material and techniques studied an aptitude and secure understanding, and apply the study skills acquired with a high degree of competency

good

Good (C- to B+) (50-69%) Demonstrate across the most of the material and techniques studied a sound understanding and apply the study skills acquired well enough to communicate effectively and with a good degree of fluency

Learning outcomes

  1. 5) Deliver a short presentation on an academic topic

  2. 3) Appropriately apply a range of transferable academic research and study skills as and when required

  3. 1) Communicate more effectively with spoken English in a range of social and academic situations

  4. 4) Organise and structure an extended academic research project

  5. 2) Access, interpret and incorporate academic texts appropriately into their own written work

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
presentation 50.00
written essay 50.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Practical classes and workshops 60
Private study 140

Transferable skills

  • Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Presentation - Able to clearly present information and explanations to an audience. Through the written or oral mode of communication accurately and concisely.
  • Argument - Able to put forward, debate and justify an opinion or a course of action, with an individual or in a wider group setting

Subject specific skills

Demonstrate ability to use English to participate fully within UK HE expectations

Resources

Resource implications for students

Purchase of Core Textbook

Reading list

McCormack, J. and Slaght, J (2012) Extended Writing and Research Skills Garnet Education: Reading

Supplementary Texts Bell, D. (2014) Passport to academic presentations (2nd edition) Garnet Education: Reading Tull, G., Lannon, Power, S. and Trappe, T. New Insights into Business (Upper Intermediate) Longman

Courses including this module

Compulsory in courses: