Introduction to Scientific English (level B1 and above) [SELVB104]

Learning outcomes

This course aims to achieve a minimum level of B1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

General reading comprehension:

The student can read factual texts on popular scientific subjects and/or subjects related to his/her interests, with a satisfactory level of reading comprehension. They can infer the meaning of an unfamiliar word from its context, but may still have difficulty with infrequent expressions.

General oral comprehension:

Students can understand factual information on popular scientific subjects and/or subjects related to their interests. They can also follow the gist of a slightly longer speech or presentation, provided that the spoken language is standard and the articulation clear.

General written production:

The student is able to write short, simply articulated texts on a variety of topics in his/her field, linking with connectors a series of elements in a linear sequence.

Oral production:

The student can produce a direct, uncomplicated description of topics in his/her field, and can exchange factual information with a degree of fluency. He/she can also give a short, simple and clear presentation on a subject related to his/her speciality, the main points of which are precisely explained.

Content

To achieve the objectives set, this course offers exercises aimed at perfecting reading and listening comprehension as well as extending general vocabulary and offering a first approach to scientific English. The student should also be able to participate actively in a conversation in a small group, give a short oral presentation to the class and begin to write in a structured way. Finally, the course also includes a review of basic grammar and pronunciation.