Aims

The course aims at developing the oral communication skills of the students to enable them to function in the relevant social contexts.

Main themes

. Reading
- Although not the main objective of the course, short texts or articles are referred to and may serve as the basis
for discussions.
- Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

. Listening
Although not the main objective of the course, short extracts of English language films or television programs may be shown in class either to familiarise students with different accents or as a starting point for discussions.
Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

. Speaking
Individually :
Students should be able to express their views clearly on familiar topics as well on more general current events.
Interactively :
to state their opinions clearly and to back them up with explanations and arguments in the context of a debate.
Level B2+ or C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

. Writing
Students are expected to make fortnightly contributions on icampus forums. Lexical and grammatical mistakes are corrected or commented on by the teacher during the class.
vocabulary : consolidation of basic vocabulary (2500 words)
grammar : consolidation of grammatical structures used in spoken language.

Content and teaching methods

Course code and title : ANGL 1501 : Interfaculty English Conversation Class
Year of studies : open to all UCL students - upper-intermediate level
Rhythm : 30 hours; either 1h/week the whole year or 2h/week during one semester
Objectives : developing oral communication to enable students to function in the relevant social contexts
Evaluation : continuous assessment, oral exam

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

[15-15] - 2 semesters
3 credits
This course is open to all UCL students.
This course is given every year.
Language of course : English

Prerequisites
This course being of upper-intermediate level, the productive command of basic grammar and vocabulary as well as the command of the language skills of the B2 level as described in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, is required.

Supporting material
Course notes to accompany the course, containing a compendium explaining how to avoid making the most common lexical and grammatical mistakes and suggesting exercises. Vocabulary books such as : English Vocabulary in Use, upper-intermediate and advanced, Michael McCarthy and Felicity O'Dell, Cambridge University Press, 1994; Active Communication in English, A.Spratbrow, editions Spratbrow, 1992.

Work load
Contact hours : 30
Self-study : 45

Evaluation
Continuous assessment throughout the year taking into account preparation of activities and class participation, as well as the results obtained at the two written tests and contribution to the icampus forum.
Oral examination at the end of the year : discussion in small groups on a given topic.

During contact hours, students communicate orally in small groups on a wide range of topics. Short exercises enhance acquisition of new vocabulary. The course is either organised over the whole academic year (1h/week) or over one term (2h/week).

Other credits in programs