English 2nd semester

Objectives

Understand the main ideas of complex texts and dialogues on both concrete and abstract topics.

Communicate with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.

Possess a sufficiently wide range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express points of view and develop arguments without obvious searching for words.

Show a fairly high degree of grammatical control. Does not make mistakes that lead to misunderstandings, and can usually correct them himself/herself.

Express him/herself clearly and in detail on a wide range of subjects, give an opinion on a topical issue and explain the advantages and disadvantages of different options;

Speaks for a relatively long time with a fairly regular flow; although he/she may hesitate when looking for structures or expressions, there are few long pauses;

Takes the initiative to speak and his/her turn when appropriate, and can close a conversation when necessary, albeit possibly inelegantly;

Facilitates the continuation of a discussion on familiar ground by confirming understanding, calling on others, etc. ;

Use a limited number of articulators to link sentences into a clear, coherent discourse, although there may be a few "jumps" in a long speech.

Course outline

For students who do not have the B2 level, courses focus in part on preparation for the TOEIC exam and on developing skills to reach the B2 level. Weaker students will receive additional instruction in reinforced English, in the form of courses covering several themes. B2 level students take two thematic courses per semester. These themes vary from year to year, and in the past have included: Current Affairs in the EU, English through Art, Storytelling: The Hero and Mythology, Technology through History, The Swinging 60s, Trends in Technology, UK Culture. For the latter, TOEIC preparation is done independently using the TOEIC Mastery software offered by the School, and during the mock TOEICs. The final TOEIC exam is offered at the end of the year for those who wish to take it in the first year.

For all first-year students, a presentation and workshops are organized on writing and perfecting a CV and cover letter in English, to help students develop their professional skills in English for their compulsory study abroad project, internship or job search. The course will initially take the form of a CM to learn writing techniques, followed by independent work with individualized feedback.

Prerequisites

Having taken the level test