English for Interpersonal Communication across Cultures

Google Classroom class code: snpi2z3

The main goal of this class is for students to develop their abilities to use English in real-life communication. Note that the word “communication" does not only mean “conversation." Students therefore will engage in writing activities as well as discussions, oral presentations, and other speaking tasks. It is not important that the students already have good English skills, but they must be willing to use the language at all times.

All required first-year and second-year English courses, namely, ASE I & II, AWE I & II, and AE2Y I & II.

none

All materials will be provided electronically by the instructor.

Week 1: Introduction to class – how to prepare for discussions, oral presentations and conversation activities
Week 2: Discussion (1) Why study English? / What is your motivation for studying English?
Week 3: Writing (1) + Conversation (1) Linguistic registers
Week 4: Oral presentation + Q & A (1) Praise your country / hometown
Week 5: Discussion (2) SDGs
Week 6: Writing (2) Letters home
Week 7: Conversation (2) Be a TV announcer!
Week 8: Oral presentation + Q & A (2) Open topic
Week 9: Oral presentation + Q & A (3) Open topic
Week 10: Discussion (3) Military duties
Week 11: Writing (3) Preparing your curriculum vitae
Week 12: Conversation (3) Mock graduate school admissions interview
Week 13: Conversation (4) Mock job interview
Week 14: Oral presentation + Q & A (4) Your current research
Week 15: Review + class wrap-up

There will be homework, preparation, and/or self-study assignments every week. Students are expected to complete all assignments on time. Students may not receive credit for late assignments.

Oral presentation (midterm): 30%
Research paper (final): 40%
Class participation (not attendance) and other assignments: 30%

Email me to set up an appointment to meet for consultation.

* This class will be taught in English. Students are expected to use English at all times, even among your peers who share the same mother tongue.

* "What does not kill you makes you stronger." -- it is true.

The contents of this syllabus are subject to change as deemed necessary.