The instructor’s role is to guide students as they develop English language skills required for studying in their academic departments. The student has the responsibility to develop appropriate independent study habits and produce work in a timely manner to the required standard.
Teaching methods are oriented towards student-centered learning. Effective instruction includes a combination of methods, including mini-lectures, class or group work, peer review, consultations with the instructor, writing in class or at home. Students should expect to contribute actively. Emphasis is on discovery and task-based learning so that students learn to increasingly take control of their own learning process. An emphasis on formative assessment is reflected in nominal marks being allocated to initial drafts of essays; the intention is for students to focus on improving their writing. The instructor will encourage students to become autonomous learners: to be responsible for improving the quality of their learning.
Course learning activities
The course consists of 45 academic hours of face-to-face contact classes and 105 hours of guided and independent study learning activities. These activities include:
Class lessons
· Lesson plans and materials are provided for students, on a weekly basis
· Assessment requirements, deadlines, rubrics are provided on L Drive
Reading and note-taking
· Students are required to prepare themselves for the next lecture/lesson
· Note-taking and critically commenting on written articles.
Writing
· Writing summaries, paraphrases and responses to assigned readings
· Drafting and polishing analytical essays
Discussion
· with peers, by
o active contribution in small group discussions
o academic discussion of issues relating to the drafts of peers
· with the instructor, by
o active contribution in class discussion
o use of individual consultation time
Practicing
· through in-class writing
· through homework exercises
· through the process of revision and editing
Paraphrasing and summarizing
· in note-taking, critical reviews, providing support in essays
· to increase the range and accuracy of academic vocabulary
Researching and investigating
· Gathering data from secondary sources
· Using data appropriately to support opinions and claims
Problem-Solution Essay : In Class Revision (Midterm 2) 10%
Problem/Solution Final (including Independent Study) 40%
Participation (whole course) 10%
Students will be marked on:
Contribution to class activities with comments, expressing opinions, asking questions and brainstorming ideas
Volunteering to participate in classroom assignments
Showing initiative and interest in classroom activities
Listening and responding to other group members
Timeliness in meeting deadlines
Completion of homework
10%
Student consistently and positively contributes in class and works well with classmates. Tasks and homework are always completed on time. Overall, displays an active, excellent attitude.
8%
Student is often active and positive in class. Almost all tasks and homework are completed on time.
6%
Student shows a satisfactory attitude in class, contributing positively much of the time. However, sometimes homework and other tasks are not completed or submitted on time.
4%
Student participates passively. Generally does not cooperate in group activities. Tasks and homework are frequently not done on time.
2%
Student’s contribution is rarely adequate. Negative or apathetic class conduct. Tasks seldom or never done.
0%
Unable to judge properly due to total or almost total lack of participation or attendance.
Grading Scale
Rating criteria and rating scales will be provided for each assessment.