Dutch communication skills for Law students - advanced level
[NEER2422]
[30h] 3 credits
This course is taught in the 1st & 2d semester.
Teacher(s): Brigitte Goidts, Mariken Smit, Marie-Paule Vanelderen(coord.)
Language: NL
Level: Second
Aims
Reading Comprehension:
- To be able 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.
- To be able to understand standard field-related correspondence.
Level C1- of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Listening Comprehension
Individual:
- To be able to understand in detail extended speech and lectures and follow even complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar (field-related).
- To be able to understand most TV news and current affairs programs provided the topic is reasonably familiar (field-related).
Interactive :
- To be able to understand conversations and debates bearing on field-related subjects.
- To be able to understand in detail what is said in an everyday conversation provided standard language is being used.
Level B2+ of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Speaking Skills (main objective)
Individual :
- To be able to give a clearly developed presentation on a complex field-related subject and to manage the following debate .
- To be able to explain a viewpoint on a topical issue using cohesive devices to link his/her utterances into clear, coherent discourse, stressing the relevant points and giving the pros and cons of various options.
Interactive :
- To be able to take an active part in discussions or debates, accounting for and sustaining his/her views.
- To be able to interact with fluency, accuracy and spontaneity in conversations bearing on a wide range of (field related) topics
Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Writing Skills:
- To be able to write a simple and well-structured texts on field-related topics summarizing and evaluating information and arguments from various sources.
- to be able to write a formal letter
Level B1+ of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Code
Vocabulary : consolidation of specific vocabulary (+/- 1000 words)
Grammar: improvement of the command of the basic and more complex structures of the Dutch language.
The use of vocabulary and grammar is seen from a communicative viewpoint but accuracy is a necessary condition to succeed.
Culture:
In the development of all the above-mentioned skills the course will aim at making the students aware of Dutch and Flemish cultural aspects.
Main themes
Content and teaching methods
1) presentation and activation of language functions related to the professional life (everyday socializing, telephoning, contributing to / organizing and conducting a meeting, taking part in a jobinterview / a negotiation, writing formal letters, a memorandum, an e-mail, );
2) Individual and interactive speaking activities related to the field of study. This part includes a presentation on a case study followed by a debate (1 hour). This part also includes oral exchanges based on a reading file.
These activities require a certain amount of preparation on the part of the student, who has to improve his or her linguistic knowledge autonomously. The teacher will advise him/her in that matter and the Self-tuition Centre of the Institute is at his/her disposal.
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)
The course being of advanced level, a good 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 (NEER 1822 upper-intermediate level) are required.
Assessment:
Continuous assessment which takes into account the student's work and participation, his /her oral presentation and tests.
Oral exam based on a file of press articles and presentations given in class
Course material
Course notes : Interactieve Communicatie
+ reading file with vocabulary lists
Training staff:
Classes in groups of 15 to 18 students.
The teacher is available during his office hours and can be contacted by e-mail.
Guidance is also provided at the Self-tuition Centre.
Workload
- Classroom hours : 30 hours
- Self-study : 42 hours.