Level: Council of Europe Level B2 – Vantage/Independent User

The course aims to extend students’ grammatical and vocabulary range and knowledge with particular emphasis on developing lexical awareness through the use of dictionaries and grammar resources, focusing on strategies and techniques of self-evaluation and skills of reflection. The analysis of literary and journalistic texts, as well as TV programmes and films which focus on socio-cultural and historical aspects of the English speaking world, facilitate reflection on and discussion of the similarities and differences between cultures. Learning and assessment tasks will provide regular opportunities for student written expression and will also focus on themes presented during the semester as well as on other contemporary Anglo-American, Portuguese or international areas of interest to the students.

CONTENT The course continues to explore English as a way of expressing your identity and culture. Topics broaden out to include cultural and social issues within both Portugal and English speaking countries.

METHODS OF LEARNING • The coursebook, Natural Grammar, will help you to develop your language learning skills and to focus on key patterns of language. The idea of Natural Grammar is that grammar is organised around key words. You will need to keep a record of your language mistakes and research. • As part of developing your learning autonomy and ability to evaluate your learning needs and progress, you will be comparing your strengths and areas needing improvement with examples of natural language used in a variety of genres. You will also be expected to keep your personal lexical notebook. • You will be working in pairs and small groups, both in class and in the preparation of certain assessment tasks. You are expected to take active part and to contribute to your small group or class blog.

LEARNING RESOURCES • Many of the learning materials used in class will come from Internet sources, which you can download and add to your course portfolio. You will need to keep a record of all materials.

PORTFOLIO OF SHORT STORIES Some short stories and extracts are available from Casa das Folhas. Give the course code - Inglês B2.2.

INTERNET ACCESS You need an e-mail address, which you can get from the Centro de Informática if you do not have one.