Overview

The course provides practice in speaking in presentations and seminars, asking and answering questions, and listening and note taking in an academic context

Course is suitable for non native Speakers of English with an IELTS of less than 7.0.

Course is suitable for non native Speakers of English with an IELTS of less than 7.0.

Assessment Strategy

Pass (C) The student has achieved a good standard of English language competence in speaking and listening skills in coursework and examination related to the learning outcomes (equivalent to IELTS 6). There are some inaccuracies and pauses in spoken English which cause occasional lapses in fluency. Pronunciation is of an acceptable standard and may be understood by others with only occasional difficulty. There is some evidence of ability to self-correct errors. The student may be reticent but makes reasonably effective contributions in speaking situations. Use of presentation software is generally good, but there may be some errors on slides. Notes from listening are mostly relevant and complete, although there are some inaccuracies. The student has fairly effective listening strategies but has occasional difficulty in understanding spoken English in unfamiliar situations.

Good (B) The student has achieved a standard of English language competence in speaking and listening skills in coursework and examination related to the learning outcomes (equivalent to IELTS 6.5). There may be occasional errors or hesitation, but these do not hinder understanding. Pronunciation is of an acceptable standard and may be understood by others with little difficulty. Use of presentation software is generally good, although there may be the occasional error. Note-taking is mostly relevant and accurate. Listening strategies are effective.

Excellent (A) The student has achieved an excellent standard of English language competence in speaking and listening skills in coursework and examination, related to the learning outcomes (equivalent to IELTS 7.0 or above). Spoken English is fluent and accurate. Pronunciation is good and easily understood by a native English speaker. The student is able to self-correct errors and apply a range of strategies to aid communication. Use of presentation software is of a high standard. They contribute actively and confidently in a speaking situation and are able to identify, note and use key points from listening effectively. There is evidence of well-developed, effective listening strategies and the student is able to understand and follow spoken English in any situation with comparative ease.

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to speak confidently to an audience and respond to questions in appropriate English.

• Be able to use PowerPoint (or other presentation software) and use this to give a presentation.

• Have developed strategies to be able to listen, understand and take notes in a variety of listening situations.

• Have developed the strategies and language to enable participation in and contribution to a range of academic learning scenarios.

• Have developed their awareness of and strategies to improve their errors in spoken English.