Aim: The purpose of this course is for students to improve their English skills while gaining insight into aspects of society around the globe. Students will read content materials on a variety of themes and then carry out exercises in all four skills. Emphasis will be placed on improving fluency, discussion and presentation skills, and vocabulary. Students will need to carry out research, think creatively, and work well with their peers.
Textbook: Reading Keys 2. Miles Craven (Macmillan)
Grades: Participation 20%; Blog work 20%; Discussion & presentation performance 60%
What to bring: Textbook; USB memory stick; computer password/user ID; personal vocabulary book (or a method to keep a list of all new vocabulary); handouts; yourself on time
Attitude: Be prepared, positive, active, cooperative & helpful
Workload: There will be a significant amount of homework every week.
Types of homework:
1. reading from textbook/completing textbook exercises
2. preparing short presentations
3. writing notes to help you take part in discussions
4. writing a blog/commenting on other students’ blogs
Contact: You can contact me by visiting Bungakukan 302, or by email at herbert@gaines.hju.ac.jp
Teacher’s blog: My blog for this course can be found at:
