爭議話題與批判思維

In a world shaped by diverse perspectives and rapid change, discussing controversial topics is more important than ever. This course invites students to engage critically with issues that provoke debate, challenge societal norms, and spark intellectual curiosity. From politics and ethics to cultural conflicts and emerging technologies, controversial topics push us to question our assumptions and explore alternative viewpoints. By tackling these subjects, students gain valuable skills in critical thinking, empathy, and effective communication. This course fosters a safe, respectful environment where students can analyse different perspectives, evaluate arguments, and form their own reasoned opinions. The aim is not to win debates but to understand the complexity of contentious issues and learn how to articulate positions with clarity and respect. Approximately 50% of the course content is related to academic and professional contexts. Upon succesful completion of this course, students will: 1. Develop the ability to critically evaluate and engage with opposing viewpoints. 2. Enhance their skills in constructing logical, well-supported arguments on complex topics. 3. Cultivate an understanding of the social, cultural, and ethical implications of controversial issues, fostering a more nuanced global perspective. Ultimately, discussing controversial topics equips students with the tools needed to navigate real-world complexities and contribute thoughtfully to contemporary discourse. This course is a companion course to my Current World Affairs course. The structure and format of the two courses is the same, but this course will focus on more controversial and divisive discussion topics. As such, this course is not recommended to students who might consider their views highly conservative or who may be easily offended. However, if you enter the course with an open mind and an open heart, you will find the content engaging, rewarding and, most likely, highly entertaining.

CEFR B2 - C1

In this class, students will read a variety of texts styles with enhanced fluency following coherent and effective use of reading strategies. 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 practised in a variety of formats including whole-class analysis of topical issues, problem-solving group work, or short individual oral presentations. Listening skills will be developed through authentic news broadcasts, on-line video content and satirical TV series. During the first session of each class students will share information they have researched on the week's topic and this will act as a springboard for discussion. The second half of each class will be led by the instructor and will put an emphasis on student focused activities. Students will be engaged in group discussions, role plays, mini projects, poster presentations, competitive interactive games and more.

Final grades will be calculated based upon the following: 1. Participation & Attendance (10%) Students should be aware that attendance is mandatory for all parts of the course. Each week every student will share, for 1 - 2 minutes, information they have found on the week's topic. 2. Self-study (10%) Students are required to attend 10 self-study activities hosted by the LTRC self-study centre (Library 3F). Proof of attendance must be uploaded to E3 before the end of the teaching semester. 3. Oral Assessments (50%) Students will conduct 2 individual / small group oral performances. The performances will be used to demonstrate the student's ability to analyse and present complex issues, to persuade an audience and to argue an issue. 4. Final Video Project (30%) Students will create a short 3-minute satirical public service announcement video.

Due to the varied nature of the content of the course, a single text will not be followed The course will make use of both authentic and non-authentic texts, and additional handouts and resources will be used as the course progresses.