English interactive communication for lawyers - Advanced level
[ANGL2422]
[30h] 3 credits
This course is taught in the 1st & 2d semester.
Teacher(s): Sabrina Knorr, Lutgarde Schrijvers(coord.)
Language: English
Level: Second
Aims
Reading comprehension: C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
- Ability to read and understand in detail- long and complex factual texts concerned with contemporary and field related problems in which the writers adopt particular attitudes or viewpoints.
- Ability to understand standard field-related correspondence.
Listening comprehension: B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Individual:
- Ability to understand -in detail- extended speech and lectures and follow complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar (field-related).
- Ability to understand most TV news and current affair programs provided the topic is reasonably familiar (field-related).
Interactive:
- Ability to understand conversations and debates bearing on field-related subjects.
- Ability to understand -in detail- what is said in an everyday conversation provided standard language is being used.
Speaking (main objective): B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Individual :
- Ability to give a presentation on a field-related subject, focusing on the significative points and relevant elements, as well as on the pros and cons of various options.
- Ability to develop a methodical and clear argumentation, broadening and confirming points of view with secondary arguments and relevant examples.
Interactive :
- Ability to communicate without giving the impression of having to restrict what he/she wants to say, with a degree of formalism adapted to the circumstance.
- Ability to interact with a level of fluency and spontaneity enabling a conversation with a native speaker without any tension being felt by the student or the native speaker.
- Ability to negotiate
Writing Skills: B1+ level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
- Ability to summarize information from various sources.
- Ability to write texts related to the field of study which are simple but well structured.
- Ability to write a formal letter.
Main themes
Content and teaching methods
1) presentation and activation of language functions related to the professional life (socializing, telephoning, travelling abroad, contributing to / organizing and conducting a meeting, taking part in a job interview, building up an argument, negotiating)
2) individual and interactive speaking activities related to the field of study. These activities are thus directly related to the legal field and include:
- oral expression activities on subjects with a legal orientation (euthanasia, human rights, role-play simulating a strike, simulation of simple steps when setting up a company)
- a presentation and a case-study in pairs or groups of students.
These activities require a certain amount of preparation on the part of the student, who has to improve his or her grammar skills autonomously (through revision of the grammar points needed) Moreover, the student will have to study specific material which will be indicated (sentences related to language functions as well as vocabulary of the course notes, files on stress and pronunciation, files on the most common grammar and vocabulary mistakes). The Self tuition Centre of the Institute is at his/her disposal.
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)
The level of the course being advanced, the productive command of basic grammar and vocabulary as well as the command of the language skills as described for the course of the first year (ANGL 1822 advanced level) are required.
Assessment
- Continuous assessment: 6 continuous assessment components are part of the final mark:
1) tests on language function sentences as well as vocabulary of the course notes
2) test related to the most common grammar and vocabulary mistakes
3) general vocabulary and legal vocabulary pronunciation tests
4) course participation
5) presentation given by the student
6) case-study presented by the student
- Interactive oral exam + job interview at the end of the second term
Course material
- Course notes: ANGL 2422:ENGLISH INTERACTIVE COMMUNICATION FOR LAWYERS. ADVANCED LEVEL.
- The Répétiteur
Training staff:
One teacher for 15 to 18 students
The teacher is available during his reception hours and can be contacted by e-mail.