Course teacher(s)
Hugh MURPHY (Coordinator) and Alexander CORNFORDECTS credits
5
Language(s) of instruction
english
Course content
- Lexico-grammatical resources linked to general scientific themes and related societal and environmental challenges
- Phonological system of English
- Intermediate-advanced grammar
- Complementary resources on the Virtual University
Objectives (and/or specific learning outcomes)
In general, this course targets, as a minimum, a level B1+ according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages for speaking and writing in a domain related to scientific studies.
By the end of this teaching unit, the student will be able to discuss a topic related to science and society; the student will be able to discuss advantages and disadvantages or points for and against opposing perspectives using clear and accessible language adapted to their audience. The student will be able to discuss, orally and in writing, societal challenges that scientific research addresses and societal implications of developments in scientific research.
Prerequisites and Corequisites
Required and Corequired knowledge and skills
At least 400h of English learning (+-/ a CEFR level B1+ ).
Required and corequired courses
Cours co-requis
Teaching methods and learning activities
Written exercises, language practice
The course presents students with readings and listening tasks, and written lexico-grammatical exercises, transferable to writing and speaking tasks; short oral presentations, and discussions in small groups help students to develop clear and effective communication skills.
(Classes given in person, check TimeEdit for rooms, with independent work and support via the Virtual University.)
References, bibliography, and recommended reading
Recommended:
Advanced Grammar in Use Book with Answers and Interactive eBook. Martin Hewings, Cambridge University Press, 2015.
English Grammar in Use with Answers and Interactive eBook: Self Study Reference and Practice Book for Intermediate Learners of English. Raymond Murphy, Cambridge University Press, 2019.
Course notes
- Syllabus
- Université virtuelle
Contribution to the teaching profile
This teachig unit allows the student to attain a level of English language knowledge which enables them to communicate, in both spoken and written language, their scientific knowledge to others. The student has sufficient English language competence to:
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use precise and discipline-specific language
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explain a scientific approach
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structure a scientific argument clearly
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use clear and well structured language adpated to a target audience
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discuss societal challenges related to current and familiar research areas
Other information
Additional information
N.B. Check your ULB emails for announcements from teachers from the Virtual University.
Contacts
Mr Hugh Murphy, Hugh.Murphy@ulb.be
Campus
Solbosch
Evaluation
Method(s) of evaluation
- written examination
- Oral examination
written examination
- Open question with developed answer
Oral examination
- Examination with preparation
- Open question with short answer
- Written exam: Discussion essay 40 percent of final mark
- Oral exam: An interview in English 60 percent of final mark, discussing themes addressed in the syllabus.
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Bonus point: of 1/20 (or part thereof) on final mark, based on scores in grammar/vocabulary quizzes on the UV.
- For this examination, there are two sessions: in January (1st session) and in August (2nd session). Students must take both the written examination and the oral examination in the same session, whether in the first and/or the second session, in order to obtain a final mark for the Teaching Unit.
Mark calculation method (including weighting of intermediary marks)
Written examination: 40%.; oral examination: 60%
Language(s) of evaluation
- english