English Conversation I

New English Conversation I Course Description

1. This course is designed to develop practical English communication skills and strategic competence in a variety of areas that will be useful in real life - from describing the simple past and future to shopping and travel English. The core text will be English Firsthand 1. We will cover the first six units in the first semester and the second six in the second semester. There are also supplementary materials designed to facilitate control of English communication, develop discussion skills, and practice presentation in the second semester.

2. The course requires active participation in pair practice, task-based group work and a regular listening component. There is an emphasis on student participation in class.

Homework, preparation, punctual attendance missing no more than 20% of classes without approved excuse and active participation will be required, and no Japanese will be spoken in class.

3. I recommend English reading and listening electives as useful additional courses.

4. Grading is based upon regular tests within the textbook, 80% and teacher assessment 20%. There is no final examination, nor is there a grade curve.

5. I want you to enjoy these classes, develop your English fluency and confidence. A key point to remember is that preparation will make these classes work smoothly. Tardiness, disorganization and laziness will adversely affect your performance and that of your classmates. Please don't be a saboteur.

6. The textbook, is English Firsthand 1. New Gold Edition. By Marc Hegelson, Steven Brown and Thomas Mandeville. Published by Longman. ISBN 962-00-5345-1.

An A 4 sized file for organizing papers is also required for each student.