COM 223 Current Topics

Instructor: John Attard

Hours: 21

Meeting times: TBA

Credit hours: 2

Course description:

Methodology:

The course will provide participants with input from authentic listenings to get content knowledge and vocabulary related to contemporary issues of a social and cultural nature. With the benefit of this input, participants will be in the position to discuss issues in class in an engaging and natural manner, incorporating their own views and understandings of those issues.

The authentic listenings will also serve to hone the participants listening recognition skills through transcription of the listening texts verbatim.

Students will also be able to give a brief verbal presentation of a current topic.

Listen to authentic materials for comprehension and dictation , vocabulary presentations and practice, interactive speaking, and monologue speaking 

Learner outcome:

• Expansion of vocabulary knowledge
• Ability to discuss current topic issues 
• Improved listening of natural english for comprehension and accuracy
• Ability to deliver a brief speech 

Themes:

Social and cultural (ex: current affairs, politics, arts and entertainment) 

Materials:

Audio and video, oral texts, quizzes, close exercises, vocabulary presentation, visuals, discussion prompts in written or spoken form

Evaluation:

Attendance 10%, Participation & Discussion Leadership 35%, Presentation 20%, Final Exam 35% 

Prerequisite courses or equivalent knowledge:

None 

Resources used:

CNN, BBC, A&E, CBC and associated news programs, authentic listening texts taken