This module will provide intensive English language study for students at CEFR bands B2 and C1 (higher independent user and lower proficient user levels). The module is aimed at students, who wish to advance their skills through an intensive programme focusing on both general and EAP advanced language practice. Module length: up to 40 weeks of study, depending on student proficiency level at entry, and rate of progress.

Module aims

The aims of the module are to help students:

- gain full mastery of basic EL grammar and vocabulary
- develop a wider range of vocabulary, allowing more precision of expression
- gain knowledge, and at least partial mastery, of more complex grammar, allowing more precision of expression
- further develop communicative ability in listening & speaking for social and transactional purposes
- develop skills required for more sustained speech turns (in spontaneous dialogue, and semi-structured monologue)
- to guide students towards an understanding of the language requirements of academic study within a UK University context
- to guide students towards becoming effective independent language learners
- follow and take notes of general interest talks
- understand general-interest texts, and identify/take simple and effective notes of main points
- write stylistically appropriate short essays on general-interest topics
- use personal editing and tutor feedback for effective essay re-drafting
- use notes from talks and/or reading texts to produce accurate summaries (in bullet-point and text form)

Learning outcomes

- overall EL competency at C2, the higher proficient user level as defined by CEFR
- higher proficient user competency in EL for general communicative purposes (listening and speaking)
- higher proficient user literacy in English (reading and writing)
- an understanding of own strengths and areas for further development in EAP
- the ability to design and follow effective study plans for independent EL and EAP development

Syllabus

Core English (average 5 sessions per week)

Class will provide grammar and vocabulary development within a communicative context. Students will be organised into groups of maximum 15 students according to language level (CEFR B2, C1). These classes provide the backbone to the module. The tutor will provide study guidance and regular individual tutorials to monitor progress.

Reading & Writing (average 4 classes per week)

Writing classes will provide advanced study in coherence, cohesion and concision at sentence and paragraph level. The module will further develop students' ability in macro writing skills (organisation and argumentation). Reading materials will include model essay texts for study. Reading practice will include authentic general-interest texts and articles from journals, websites, newspapers and key texts. IELTS preparation for Reading & Writing Papers will include both test practice and targeted skills development.

Listening and Speaking (average 3 classes per week)

Listening classes will use both advanced language learning material and authentic live and recorded (off-air) talks and discussions. Speaking classes will focus on both prepared and spontaneous debate, together with practice in prepared oral presentation to peers. IELTS preparation for Listening & Speaking Papers will include both test practice and targeted skills development.

Assessment

For assessment purposes, the module will be divided into 5-week study blocks. 5-weekly progress reports will be produced for sponsors and students to include: class test grades, assessment of current level, rate of progress and an up-dated study plan.

Assessed coursework consists of level-specific tasks on the four skills: timed writing, reading comprehension, listening comprehension, oral interview, use of English test.

The International Academy Test of English Language Proficiency (TELP) will be used to provide further evidence of a student's proficiency level at exit.