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
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Bibliography
Recommended for grammar and vocabulary:
Vv. Aa., Oxford Grammar 360° with key and e-book, OUP
Textbook
Vv. Aa., Elevate! B2 Student’s Book +
Workbook + MyLab, Pearson
Further practice
S S. Dignen, J. Newbrook, B2 First Formula Exam Trainer and Interactive eBook (with key, digital resources and App), Pearson
A dedicated Elly DIA webpage provides practice material with modules focusing on the topics related to the exam. This page can be accessed by using the unipr access credentials
(name.surname@studenti.unipr.it). The material includes exam tips and self-correcting exercises.
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.
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.
VALIDITY OF LANGUAGE CERTIFICATES
For the list of valid certificates and their recognition / validation in place of the in-house test, please see the dedicated Elly DIA webpage of the specific course.
Other information
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).
