Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas

English C2.2

Code

711121067

Academic unit

Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas

Department

Línguas, Culturas e Literaturas Modernas, Secção de Estudos Ingleses e Norte-Americanos

Credits

6

Weekly hours

4

Teaching language

Objectives

This course sets out to follow a studentcentred approach of identifying and addressing students’ shortcomings in relation to the specific linguistic awareness and communicative competencies at C2 level as detailed in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). While the learning outcomes, therefore, depend on proritising students´ needs within the time frame, the overall aim is to develop their capacity to operate in the language with nativespeaker proficiency. This includes: enhanced awareness of how culture, linguistic systems and meaning relate ability to interact spontaneously, fluently and effectively with very few lapses unhindered understanding of extensive and demanding, contemporary texts competent application of communicative strategies and critical thinking skills to the composition and editing of a range of texts.

Prerequisites

Subject matter

Since the course content is developed according to CEFR descriptors for C2 level and individual student needs, diagnostic activities will determine required linguistic, discourse and associated cultural input. This includes analysis of authentic texts written and spoken together with practice of communicative competencies. Topics for research and discussion are selected flexibly according to students´ aims and interests.

Bibliography

Carter, R. & McCarthy, M. (2006) Cambridge Grammar of English. Cambridge University Press
Gillet, A., Hammond, A. & Martala, M. (2009) Successful Academic Writing. Pearson Longman
Cottrell S, (2005), Critical Thinking Skills: Developing Effective Analysis and Argument. Palgrave,
Gairns, R. & Redman, S. (2009) Oxford Word Skills Advanced. Oxford University Press McCarthy, M. & O’Dell, F. (2006) English Vocabulary in Use Advanced (with CD) Cambridge University Press.
Vince, M. & French, A. (2011) IELTS Language Practice: English Grammar and Vocabulary. Macmillan
Cofin. C. Donahue, A. & North, S. (2009) Exploring English Grammar. Routledge
A collection of selected readings available on campus to students

Teaching method

The course employs a studentcentred approach and taskbased methodology. With the aid of authentic texts, digital resources and structured discussions, this aims to provide for:
optimum use of spoken and written English and interactive strategies
opportunities to develop learning skills including critical thinking skills that promote learner autonomy
reason to research, reflect on and (for practical purposes) describe the linguistic and functional systems of
English an enhanced command of precise, nuanced and idiomatic lexis the
development of other communicative competences specified in CEFR.

Evaluation method

Continuous evaluation of student progress includes a minimum of two written texts 50%, an assessment of
active participation and effort throughout the course 10%, an oral presentation followed by Q and A and
discussion 25% and a summative test of language usage and skills 15%

Courses