Advanced English Programme (BA_S1): Year One - Part Two [SS 24]

WRITTEN COMMUNICATION

This combined course is for first-year BA_S1 students who have English as one of their subjects. You have at least a B2 level in English as a result of high school studies in the language and you may also have spent some time in an English-speaking environment. There is a good chance, however, that you feel less confident when having to write in English. This course builds on your existing knowledge and use of written English with the aim of developing your writing skills for current and future purposes. It also encourages you to practise your writing across a range of contexts (general, professional, academic) in order to thrive as a university student and as a future secondary school teacher of English in Switzerland.


WHAT THIS COURSE FOCUSES ON (Advanced English Programme (AEP)):

An English language teacher has to demonstrate not only excellent speaking and listening skills in English for their students, but proficient written communication skills as well. To that end, this course focuses on the fundamentals of effective writing, the different types of language used when writing a range of text types, together with the knowledge and strategies needed to become a better, more accurate and communicative writer.

Main Learning Outcomes:

  • To develop your overall written communication skills
  • To better understand the importance of audience, purpose, context, clarity and simplicity in writing
  • To full engage in the writing process, e.g. brainstorming, planning, drafting, revising and editing
  • To express ideas in writing more clearly and precisely, and in an appropriate style (formal vs informal)
  • To improve your accuracy and range of grammar and vocabulary in writing across various text types

Evaluation is based on attendance of, preparation for, and active contribution to every class, as well as successful completion of all four formal written assignments (AEP). The writing assignments will be evaluated by your lecturer according to clearly-stated criteria and standards. You will receive a final grade for the AEP course based on all of the above.

The four formal writing assignments (AEP):

1. Write a film review (300-350 words)

2. Write a professional/formal email (180-200 words)

3. Write a modern version of a fable with a classmate (200-250 words)

4. Write an academic essay (800-1000 words)


Guided Autonomous Study (GAS):

To successfully pass the Guided Autonomous Study (GAS) course, you are required to complete 10 portfolio tasks throughout the semester. You will receive a separate grade for the GAS course based on your completed portfolio (key criteria: content, language, organisation and presentation). More information about the 10 portfolio tasks will be provided at the start of the course.


IMPORTANT: The Advanced English Programme (Year 1, Part 2) is to be completed in combination with the course: Guided Autonomous Study (Year 1, Part 2). Please register for both of these courses separately.