Based on English 7, English 8 is designed to improve students’ English language skills for academic purposes and provide them with more knowledge in relevant areas. The materials include topics such as international and intercultural issues as well as current topics of science and technology. Expectations require students to practice: reading academic articles, listening to English lectures, speaking before an audience, and developing skills to write paragraphs and short essays.
By the end of this course, students will:
・be able to express their ideas and opinions in classes confidently
・be able to write paragraphs or short essays
・be able to better understand academic lectures
・practice effective reading strategies
Four language skills, fostering international awareness, communication, studying abroad, TOEFL
Specialist skills | ✔ Intercultural skills | ✔ Communication skills | Critical thinking skills | Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
The semester is subdivided into three 2-week sessions, each based on a chapter of the textbook. In the first week, students will be introduced to the topic and relevant vocabulary, while developing listening and speaking skills. The second week will revolve around a relevant TED talk (or other audio/visual materials) and class activities aimed to enhance English communication skills.
Students are expected to actively participate in class/group discussions, and regularly give oral presentations.
The final exam consists of an individual presentation and a reflection paper.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
---|---|---|
Class 1 | Review of English 7; “Stress: Friend or Foe?” Part 1: Listening, speaking, and pronunciation | Textbook pp. 82-92 |
Class 2 | “Stress: Friend or Foe?” Part 2: TED Talks, presentation | Textbook pp. 93-101 |
Class 3 | “Live and Learn” Part 1: Listening, speaking, and pronunciation | Textbook pp. 122-133 |
Class 4 | “Live and Learn” Part 2: TED Talks, presentation | Textbook pp. 134-141 |
Class 5 | “DIY: Do It Yourself” Part 1: Listening, speaking, and pronunciation | Textbook pp. 142-151 |
Class 6 | “DIY: Do It Yourself” Part 2: TED Talks | Textbook pp. 152-161 |
Class 7 | Review of entire semester; Final Exam | Review of entire semester |
To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.
21st Century Communications: Listening, Speaking and Critical Thinking 3, [Cengage], ISBN: 978-1-305-95546-2
Handouts will be distributed as necessary.
Class contribution, assignments:60%
Final presentation:40%
None
None.