進階英文閱讀與討論

The aim of this course is to enhance students' critical English reading abilities and develop more formal discussion skills based on critical reading of and reference to source materials. In this class, students will read a variety of texts styles with enhanced fluency following effective use of reading strategies (e.g., scanning, skimming, and summary). Topics covered in the course materials include various controversial issues, such as social equality, resource allocation, technological impact, and culture diversities. Students will also actively engage in extensive reading with a critical perspective (e.g., distinguishing between fact and opinion, evaluating sources, and identifying points of view). Discussion skills will be practiced in a variety of formats including whole-class analysis of topical issues, problem-solving group work, and short individual oral presentations. Pronunciation of key words and application of vocabulary in context will be emphasized. Students will also have opportunities to collaborate in a small group, reading extensively on a topic of their choice and presenting the information to the whole class.

To receive full credit on course attendance, students must arrive to class on time and participate for the full session. Only 3 excused absences are allowed. After that, 20 points will be taken away from your attendance grade for each of your absence. Notify the instructor if you will be unable to participate. Students are required to complete reading assignments before coming to the class. Quizzes will be given in class to ensure your completion of the reading assignment. During the weekly class time, students will be engaged in whole-class discussion, pair and group discussion, role plays, and debates. These in-class activities require you to complete worksheets individually or in group. Participation in these in-class activities and worksheet complement will be a part of your course grade. The mid-term and final exams aim to evaluate students' vocabulary and reading competence in the various topics covered in class. The reading report aims to help students become independent readers and cultivate critical thinking. Every three weeks, students will preview the reading assignment of our weekly course discussion and look for an article related to our weekly topic from outside sources (e.g., newspaper, magazines, the internet, journal articles, etc.). During the class time, you will share your responses to the article in small groups and incorporate your response to the article in our course discussion. Students will work in a small group to further investigate one of our weekly topics by reading at least 4 extra pieces of articles of your choice and present your findings to the whole class in English. In the oral report, you need to introduce the issue you work on, summarize what you have learned about this issue based on the articles you read, critically evaluate the value and assumptions taken by these authors, and consider alternative perspectives. Please include references to your source information in your oral report.

Course Attendance: 10% Quizzes: 5% Course Participation and in-class activities: 15% Midterm Exam: 15% Final Exam: 15% Reading Report:10% Group Oral Reports: 30%

Browne, C., Culligan, B. & Phillips J (2014). In focus: A vocabulary, reading and critical thinking skills course (3). Cambridge University Press

地點

人社3館 HC317

時間

Tue. 10:10-11:10 or by appointment

聯絡方式

03-5712121 ext:52776 yuehchingchang@nctu.edu.tw