Course Overview
What to expect and how we will work
What Is This Course?
This course is for students who already have a strong command of English and are ready to work with more advanced language, ideas, and forms of expression.
You will read demanding texts, engage with complex themes, write analytical and argumentative essays, and develop a more confident, precise academic style. The emphasis is not on learning more English—it is on using English with greater skill and independence.
What Will You Learn?
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
- Read and analyse challenging literary and non-fiction texts
- Write structured, evidence-based academic essays
- Discuss and debate complex ideas with clarity and maturity
- Understand how language shapes meaning and persuasion
- Use vocabulary and style appropriate to formal academic contexts
- Think critically about texts, media, society, and culture
- Work independently and take responsibility for your own learning
How Will We Work?
The course is organised into thematic modules, each focusing on a big question or area of study. Within each module, you will:
- Read key texts and materials
- Discuss ideas in seminars and class discussions
- Write essays, analyses, or reflections
- Complete interactive practice activities
- Reflect on your learning and progress
Expect a mix of whole-class teaching, small-group discussion, independent reading, and written tasks. You will receive feedback on your work and have opportunities to revise and improve.
How Will You Be Assessed?
Assessment focuses on four main areas:
| Area | What It Includes |
|---|---|
| Reading | Comprehension, analysis, inference, critical evaluation |
| Writing | Structure, argument, evidence, style, accuracy |
| Speaking | Clarity, fluency, participation, argumentation |
| Language Quality | Vocabulary, register, grammar, precision |
You will receive ongoing formative feedback. Summative assessments may include essays, oral presentations, seminar participation, and a final project.
See the Assessment page for detailed criteria and rubrics.
Student Responsibilities
This course requires active participation and independent effort. You are expected to:
- Attend all sessions and arrive prepared
- Complete readings and homework on time
- Participate constructively in discussions
- Submit your own original work
- Use feedback to improve
- Ask questions when you do not understand
- Manage your time and meet deadlines
A Note on Independence
At this level, you are responsible for your own learning. The teacher will guide and support you, but genuine progress requires your own effort, curiosity, and willingness to engage with challenging material.