English 1st semester

Objectives

Achieve CEFR level C1 (or higher) in English, which means: Understand the main content of concrete or abstract topics in a complex text or dialogue; Communicate with a degree of spontaneity and fluency such as a conversation with a native speaker without strain for either party; Possess a wide enough range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express one’s point of view and develop an argument without obvious fumbling for words; Show a fairly high degree of grammatical control. Do not make mistakes that lead to misunderstandings and can usually correct them themselves; Speak clearly and in detail on a wide range of topics, express an opinion on a topical issue and set out the advantages and disadvantages of different options; Speak for a relatively long time with a fairly regular delivery; although he/she may hesitate when searching for patterns or expressions, there are few long pauses; Take the initiative to speak and take turns when appropriate and can close a conversation when necessary, even if perhaps inelegantly; Facilitate the continuation of a discussion on familiar ground by confirming understanding, asking others for help, etc.; Use a limited number of articulators to link sentences into clear, coherent speech, although there may be some "jumps" in a long speech.

Course outline

In the first semester, for students who do not have the CEFR B2 level, the courses focus partly on preparing for the TOEIC and developing skills to reach the B2 level. The weakest students also take the Reinforced English course instead of a second modern language. B2 level students will take two thematic courses per semester. These themes vary every year; here are some examples offered in the past: Business English, Current Events and Conversations, Crime, Modern Dilemmas, Neuroscience & the Brain, Alternative Lifestyles, Cities and the future of Urban Living. For the latter, TOEIC preparation is done independently and during the three mandatory mock TOEICs (1 test in S1 and 2 tests in S2). The official TOEIC is offered at the end of the year for those who wish to take it in their first year. Please note: this official certification test is mandatory for students applying for an Erasmus+ or other academic exchange program in the second year.rnFor all first-year students, a presentation and workshops are organized to help them write and improve their CV and cover letter in English, to help them develop their professional English skills to complete their mandatory study abroad project, seek an internship, or look for a job. This training will be in the form of CM to learn writing techniques initially, and then in the form of independent work with individualized feedback.

Prerequisites

Have passed the level test on Moodle before the start of the school year