Written English
Module: English
Matter: English for academic purposes
Main language of instruction: English
Head instructor
Lc. Martyn Russell BAKER - mbaker@uic.es
Other instructors
Lda. Jean VILANOVA - jean@uic.es
Lda. Doris STANGER - dstanger@uic.es
Lda. Ann SWINNEN - aswinnen@uic.es
Lc. Joseph Edward BARR - jbarr@uic.es
Lda. Selina Inonge KAMPHUIS - skamphuis@uic.es
Office hours
By appointment.
The aim of this programme is primarily to improve writing skills within the context of the degree programme. It is based on the principles that language and literacy is acquired when language is used as a means for understanding and constructing knowledge such as when we generate ideas and acquire the language through writing. Students will also be invited to connect what they already know and have experienced with what they are being asked to read and do.
The programme consists of 3 elements: class-based lessons, tutorials and self-study. The teacher-led lessons focus on developing students’ writing skills guiding them through the writing process. Tutorials will focus on student development and interpersonal skills and will include an evaluated group project. The final part being the self-study element which primarily focuses on writing and developing the use of reference and self-correction tools.
All three elements have been specifically designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge and resources that will increase their confidence in order to communicate effectively in English.
Recommended minimum global level is that of a B2.1 before the start of the course.
Classroom:
Tutorial:
Self Study:
Students are expected:
Students are expected:
Block 1 (2 to 4 weeks) - General introduction to writing techniques and skills (brainstorming and creating ideas, outlining, introduction, topic sentences, paragraph formation, body, conclusion).
Block 2 (10 to 12 weeks) - Different types of writing: compare and contrast, cause and effect, persuasive, news story, feature article, press release.
Block 3 (2 weeks) - Final production with a group project and final exam based on types of writing.
Coaching (CO) 16 hours – Meetings with students on an individual basis to comment on and work on individual problem areas with the English language in relation to writing. For example, organization, structures and use of English.
Seminars (SM) 8 hours – Working in pairs or small groups in the classroom with an emphasis on peer-review and self correction.
Tallers (TA) 8 hours – Teacher-guided work in small groups with an emphasis on skills and organization needed for successful group work, peer review, constructive criticism and self- reflection on own work and work of others.
Workshops (WO) 16 hours - Working on skills needed for successful writing and autonomous learning. Development of ideas through brainstorming, free writing, outlining and peer review.
Clases Magistrales (CM) 12 hours – Introduction of material to be used and exploited in the projects and journal writing. Emphasis on skills needed for writing in English related to both use of language and organization, covering topics such as paragraph development, topic sentences and different types of compositions.
Lectures. In lectures, lecturers/professors not only transmit content or knowledge, but also, and above all else, attitudes, motivation, skills and values, etc. They also ensure that participants can express their opinions and arguments to the other students. (3.8 credits).
Seminar. This activity will consist of taking an in-depth look at specific up-to-date topics in a monographic manner-in some cases these topics will have been debated socially-, via active work in small groups. (1.2 credits).
Practical workshop. A highly practical working activity, where students can acquire skills that are practical or also theoretical (intellectual skills, logical skills, critical skills, intellectual learning skills, study skills, quoting skills, etc). (1 credit).
TRAINING ACTIVITY | ECTS CREDITS |
---|---|
Lectures. In lectures, lecturers/professors not only transmit content or knowledge, but also, and above all else, attitudes, motivation, skills and values, etc. They also ensure that participants can express their opinions and arguments to the other students. | 3.8 |
Seminar. This activity will consist of taking an in-depth look at specific up-to-date topics in a monographic manner-in some cases these topics will have been debated socially-, via active work in small groups. | 1.2 |
Practical workshop. A highly practical working activity, where students can acquire skills that are practical or also theoretical (intellectual skills, logical skills, critical skills, intellectual learning skills, study skills, quoting skills, etc). | 1 |
Evaluation of the subject
Individual texts - 60%
Competencies - 6,8,15,41
Six individual written texts (Five assessed and worth 12% each) based on material and concepts covered in class. All assessed texts must be written in class.
Group project - 20%
Competencies - 6,8,15,41
One extended group project. A culmination and extension of the individual projects.
Final exam - 20%
Competencies - 6,15,41
A 500 word essay, one of the types practised in class, randomly chosen on the day of the exam, that students must write in the two hours provided. The essay must be handwritten and the use of any type of technology is forbidden. Paper dictionaries are the only resource allowed.
In all situations and in both sittings students must show a B2.1 level in English to pass the subject.
EVALUATION SYSTEM | PERCENTAGE |
---|---|
Final Exam | 20% |
Project | 20% |
Individual Work | 60% |
Class-based materials:
To be provided by the teacher, based on essential writing skills needed.