2009-10 Catalog: English as a Second Language

Communication and pronunciation in spoken English. Development of pronunciation, vocabulary, listening comprehension, and accuracy and fluency in speaking. Aspects of American culture will be discussed. The first term is required for all first-year international students designated by the ESL screening process. Passing the class is based on attendance and effort. Graded pass/fail.

Development of fluency and communication strategies. Emphasis on presentation skills and interpersonal communication on scientific topics. Strongly recommended for first-time international graduate teaching assistants.

Expressions, vocabulary, slang, and idioms used in daily life. Conversation and discussion, with feedback from instructors. Occasional grammar and pronunciation review. Comprehension of newspaper and magazine articles, as well as films and television programs.

Aspects of American English pronunciation. Vowels and consonants, word and syllable stress, sentence stress and rhythm, intonation, and linking. Intensive practice and techniques for achieving correct pronunciation through self-monitoring.

Oral presentation in a variety of settings, including oral exams, seminars, conferences, and the classroom. Focus on the organization of ideas, delivery techniques, pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. Frequent in-class presentations by students based on their current research interests, followed by critiques. Improvement of confidence and delivery skills.

Strategies for improving academic writing. Emphasis on grammar, word choice, organization, logical connectors, and punctuation. Classroom exercises and editing practice based on student writing samples.