Learning objectives
By the end of the course the students reach level B2 of the European Frame of Reference, having developed their skills related to grammar, lexis, language functions, reading and listening comprehension. Based on the CEFR, at level B2 the user can understand the main ideas of complex written and spoken text on a wide range of both concrete and abstract topics, including technical material in their field of specialization.
The course also aims to develop learner autonomy; compensation strategies; paraphrasing, anticipation, deduction and summarizing skills, and language and context analysis for effective handling of spoken and written texts.
Prerequisites
Intermediate level knowledge of English (equivalent to level B1 of the Common European Frame of Reference).
Course unit content
All the topics expected at level B1 of the CEFR
Language structures which characterize texts for specific/academic purposes and scientific communication*, including:
Narrative tenses
Present Perfect (Simple and Continuous)
If-clauses (1st and 2nd Conditional)
The Passive voice
Indirect speech and reporting verbs
Questions (direct and indirect)
Modal verbs of deduction
Main conjunctions (subordinate clauses)
Use of prefixes and suffixes for word formation
Expressing and supporting opinions
* (reference: Pearson English, Global scales of English learning objectives for academic English, London: Pearson Education Limited; GELS framework)
Full programme
- - -
Bibliography
Recommended for grammar and vocabulary:
Vv. Aa., Oxford 360° pack with answer key booklet, OUP
Textbook
to be defined
Further practice
S. Burgess, J. Newbrook, J. Wilson, Gold First Exam Maximiser New edition (with key), Pearson (with audio)
Teaching methods
Interactive classes with the use of multimedia (blended learning https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blended_learning).
Methodology: presentation of structures, deduction of rule, contrastive use of the language, use of different teaching aids (audio and video materials, slides, textbook, etc.); development of reading and listening skills through guided discovery and metacognitive/metalinguistic reflection.
Assessment: achievement test focusing on grammar, lexis, language functions, and comprehension of written and spoken texts.
The course is entirely held in English. Active student participation is highly encouraged, also to strengthen spoken production and interaction skills and collaborative learning (pair/group work).
NB: due to the CoVid crisis, the course may have to be held online, in interactive mode (synchronous).
Assessment methods and criteria
Multiple choice test with questions on grammar, lexis, language functions, reading and listening comprehension at B2 level. Dictionaries, grammar reference books, electronic devices, etc. are not allowed.
Other information
RECOGNITION OF LANGUAGE QUALIFICATIONS
In order to have their certificates validated, BEFORE the closing date of registration for the exam students must:
1. Check that their qualification is eligible for recognition (see list on the dedicated teaching module page on the Elly web-learning platform).
2. Using their institutional account [ name.surname@studenti.unipr.it ], send an e-mail to Anila Scott-Monkhouse ( anila@unipr.it ) attaching a copy of the certificate(either scanned copy or photo) and possibly with the Head of the Examination Board ( armando.vannucci@unipr.it ) in CC.
The subject line must read "Language Qualification Recognition" and the text of the email must list: a) name and surname of the candidate; b) university registration number; c) degree course (indicating whether Bachelor’s or Master’s degree); d) place and date of birth; e) Reference number / Test Report Form number / SIDI code (for INVALSI qualifications only).
3. Wait for approval e-mail by the above recipients.
4. Register for the exam through ESSE3 at the earliest date available, specifying "recognition + type of certification (e.g." recognition First ") in the “Notes” section.
The exam will be recorded online through ESSE3, following the same procedure and times applied to examinees who have passed the exam.
