The course is finalized in acquiring the necessary skills of the English language B1 level, according to the criteria of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), with a particular emphasis on scientific language;  capacity for reading and understanding English scientific text and understanding of spoken English (L2) in a scientific context; learning the specific lexicon-grammatical characteristics of scientific English texts and with particular attention dedicated to scientific reports and abstracts and their structures; and, as possible, the capacity of discussing arguments of a scientific context.  The command of the English language at a B1 level is essential for operating in the field of science.

The following grammatical aspects will be covered during the lessons; Review of verbal tenses: present simple, present continuous, past simple, present perfect, the future tenses, comparatives and superlatives, modal verbs, relative pronouns, definite and indefinite articles, gerunds and infinite forms, the passive forms, prepositions and connectives.

The grammatical elements (see above), will be examined and reinforced through the readings and analysis of scientific texts and the viewing and listening to presentations and interviews (videos and podcasts) in areas of science. As well as the review of basic grammar, the following arguments relative to scientific discourse will be dealt with: the characteristics that distinguish a scientific discourse in English: nominal groups, the passive form, specific lexicon and different registers of speech. The scientific report abstracts and the use of verbal tenses that characterize them (Introduction, Materials and Methods, Results and Discussion); elements that add to the unity and cohesion of the text; constructions/expressions used for giving examples, expressing possibility/probability, hypothesis, describing changes and trends, arriving at conclusions; common organization of a scientific discourse and specific constructions of a scientific discourse.

It is assumed that students are already prepared with an understanding of the English language at level A2 (CEFR).

In relation to the English language the student must prove to have acquired:

Knowledge and understanding and applying knowledge and understanding – The student must demonstrate to understand and be able to use grammar correctly and to have a command of the “Use of English” in the field of science at a B1 level, according to CEFR.

The student must be capable of demonstrating that they are able to understand written texts and audio content specific to the scientific sector and answer questions and having a knowledge of the English language at a B1 level according to the CEFR. The student must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the structure of a scientific abstract report and answer questions regarding the contexts at a level B1, according to the CEFR.

Making Judgments - Students will be encouraged to express themselves using correct English and discuss their thoughts on the topics introduced.

Communication skills - Students must have the ability to efficiently express and communicate their knowledge of the basic scientific concepts in English.

Learning Skills -  The students are expected to be able to use the knowledge and concepts learned in order to reason and hold discussions for their future as professionals in their field.

The teaching material prepared by the lecturer in addition to recommended textbooks (such as for instance slides, lecture notes, exercises, bibliography) and communications from the lecturer specific to the course can be found inside the Moodle platform › blended.uniurb.it

The learning material and eventual specific communications by the professor will be available, along with support material, on the Blended platform. 

Teaching

-  Frontal lessons and interactive participation (group activities)

-  Readings and linguistic analysis of technical articles specific for the scientific field.

-  PowerPoint presentations

-  Grammar exercises

-  Viewing and listening to scientific presentations and interviews (video/podcast) from the area of science, analyzing the content and language and               followed by comprehension questions.

Innovative teaching methods

Working in small groups in preparation for discussions and debates on topics studied during the lessons.

Attendance

Attendance is not obligatory.

Course books

The learning material  will be available, along with support material, on the Moodle › blended.uniurb.it

Suggested Text: Raymond Murphy, Raymond Murphy, English Grammar in Use, Cambridge University Press, 5th edition (with CD).

Assessment

The student must take and pass a written exam that will consist in a test (pass or fail) with multiple choice questions and gap filling of the duration of circa 90 minutes. The questions will be in regards to the material and arguments covered during the lessons, The first part will be questions(true-false) on the 4 scientific texts discussed during the lessons and the second part will be on grammar for “Use of English” with multiple choice and gap filling questions.

Disability and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students who have registered their disability certification or SLD certification with the Inclusion and Right to Study Office can request to use conceptual maps (for keywords) during exams.

To this end, it is necessary to send the maps, two weeks before the exam date, to the course instructor, who will verify their compliance with the university guidelines and may request modifications.

Teaching

The program and study materials are the same for attending students. The non-attending students must refer to the platform Moodle/Blended Learning for the exam study material.  

Attendance

Not obilgatory

Course books

The learning material  will be available, along with support material, on the Moodle › blended.uniurb.it

Suggested Text: Raymond Murphy, Raymond Murphy, English Grammar in Use, Cambridge University Press, 5th edition (with CD).