Themen der Lehrveranstaltung
The objective of this course is to foster a participatory learning environment in which students actively engage in developing their English language skills and competences for both academic and specialist purposes. The core syllabus is topic-based or thematic, with lectures structured around key topics. Occasionally, elements from other syllabus types, such as structural and functional, are integrated to enhance learning outcomes. Each lecture focuses on a specific theme, around which language input, communicative activities, and skills practice are organised.
The course explores a range of contemporary social issues through a linguistic lens, including:
- financial hardship, poverty, and related money matters,
- forms of social exclusion and discrimination,
- youth-related concerns and antisocial behaviour.
These themes provide a meaningful context for developing academic and specialist English, focusing on relevant vocabulary, collocations, and discourse patterns. Students engage with authentic texts and spoken materials, exploring how such issues are represented in academic, journalistic, or institutional genres. The emphasis is on interpreting and producing language that is appropriate for formal discussion, analysis, and argumentation, including the use of modality, hedging, evaluative language, and persuasive rhetorical strategies.
Recognising the holistic nature of language, this course integrates the four macro skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. While all four skills are practised, particular emphasis is placed on oral communication and reading comprehension. The course develops key academic skills such as critical reading, argumentation, and analytical thinking, especially through engagement with academic texts.
The course incorporates vocabulary development and targeted grammar reinforcement at CEFR Level C1, with adjustments made as needed to meet the specific requirements of the student group.
Unterrichtsform
The course is delivered online in real time (synchronously) and takes an integrated approach, combining interactive lectures with seminar-style discussions. Students will engage in a variety of learning activities, working individually, in pairs, and in small groups, to encourage collaboration and active participation.
Lectures will be supported by PowerPoint presentations, freely accessible videos, and curated readings, all of which will be made available via the OLE platform in compliance with copyright regulations. These materials will form the basis of plenary discussions and small-group activities.
Class sessions will focus on applying course content through discussion, analysis, and task-based exercises to encourage critical engagement and the practical use of language. Students will maximise their learning and deepen their understanding of course topics by actively collaborating with peers and contributing to class activities.