What will I learn on this module?
This module will develop your ability to comprehend extended spoken English, as well as interact and express yourself confidently in academic contexts. You will learn strategies to identify cues and inference to strengthen your comprehension of live and broadcast academic speech, such as lectures and multimedia. You will also develop vocabulary and language strategies that build your confidence to speak at length in English, such as for presentations and debates, in addition to real-time interaction in group discussions. By the end of the module, you will have the skills to engage in academic discourse on your chosen degree.
How will I learn on this module?
Through various listening activities, you will practise strategies that enhance your comprehension of spoken English in academic contexts. This will involve preparing for listening tasks and analysing speech to understand language, as well as identifying key points and finer detail. You will also participate in frequent group discussion on related topics, developing your skills and confidence to engage in real-time interaction. You will receive tuition and practice on how to plan, structure and deliver presentations in an academic environment, preparing you for delivering extended speech on your chosen degree.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will have access to lecture recordings and learning materials on the module Blackboard site.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Identify main ideas and details in complex spoken academic discourse
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. Express yourself clearly in interactive discussions, using strategies to overcome communication challenges
3. Clearly communicate knowledge and thoughts through planned and well-structured extended spoken responses that are supported by evidence
4. Demonstrate linguistic range, accuracy and control at B2 level proficiency.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Demonstrate a global awareness by exploring key challenges and their implications
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment process
You will complete a combination of self-assessments, role-plays and submitted tasks that help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement throughout the module, which will be supplemented by peer and/or tutor-led feedback.
Summative assessment process
You will complete a separate portfolio of tasks for each of the key skills involved in the module, listening and speaking.
These portfolios will comprise in-semester tasks that give an indication of your mastery and engagement at key points in the module, as well as end of semester examinations under timed conditions that determine your overall achievement against the module learning outcomes.
[All MLOs]
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
In this module, you will familiarise yourself with interactive academic discourse, particularly in relation to lectures and seminars. Designed for B2-level proficiency, this module develops your listening skills, helping you understand complex spoken content in lectures and discussions. You will learn to express yourself confidently in academic conversations, whether it is presenting your ideas or actively participating in group discussions. A focus will be placed on enhancing your ability to comprehend speech, effectively communicate, and actively contribute within an academic setting. By the end of the module, you will feel at ease engaging with lectures and seminars, including discussions, debating and giving presentations, equipping you with the skills needed for success in your academic journey at a UK university.
Course info
Credits 0
Level of Study NotDefined
Mode of Study 7 months Full Time
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start January 2025 or June 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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