Learning objectives
* Raise awareness of students towards the features which characterize presentations in English, and the ability to transfer these competencies to productive skills. Suggestions for developing their English for academic purposes (e.g. expanding vocabulary) and improve their delivery skills. Development of reflection and public speaking skills, and of soft skills related to the 4Cs (communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking).
* (references: Pearson English, Global scales of English learning objectives for academic English, London: Pearson Education Limited; GELS framework)
Prerequisites
Knowledge of spoken English at upper-intermediate level (equivalent to level B2 of the Common European Frame of Reference).
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.
Course unit content
Active learning by carrying out tasks in preparation of presentation delivery (e.g. use of videos providing examples of communicative functions, value of non-verbal and paraverbal language, etc); slide drafting and comment; use of visual aids (e.g. graphs, pictures); critical reflection on the quality of presentations observed and self-reflection for improvement.
Full programme
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Bibliography
Material provided by the course lecturer
Teaching methods
Interactive classes with the use of multimedia, authentic materials and student production of materials.
Methodology: task-based learning; learn-by-doing; individual, pair and group work; peer teaching; cooperative learning; use of different teaching aids and activities (audioCDs, slides, handouts, videoclips, discussions, etc.).
Assessment methods and criteria
Preparation and delivery of a 10-minute informative presentation on a topic of choice, followed by a short Q&A session. The examinee expounds facts and opinions from the reading material of their choice and is expected to integrate with further information and personal views.
A list for resources is provided to help choose the topic.
Other information
Elly platform: https://elly2022.smfi.unipr.it/course/view.php?id=91
The course is entirely held in English. Active student participation is expected to strengthen spoken production and interaction skills and collaborative learning (pair/group work).
Prospective participants can check their level of English on entry by carrying out the test on
http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/it/test-your-english/adult-learners/
