English for Academic Purposes: Pre-sessional English – Intermediate

Foundation Certificate

Overview

This course will help you improve your English language and academic skills, and develop your knowledge of life at university in the UK. You will build on your existing knowledge of English and develop academic skills such as taking notes, contributing to seminars, making presentations, reading strategies, and writing essays and reports. You'll gain a head start by learning about the University before you start your main course and reach the required level of English to be successfully accepted to the University.

Why us?

• You will be taught in a small group by experienced tutors, with additional out-of-classroom activities during British Studies time
• You will have access to our modern facilities that include a language laboratory and a well-equipped centre for self-access language work
• You will meet other international students who will be studying at the University
• You will have a head start and know your way around the University before your main course begins

Course Structure

This pre-sessional course uses a variety of teaching methods in order to develop your English skills and prepare you effectively for university study in the UK. You will participate in small group classes, larger group lectures, and small group or individual tutorials enabling you to practise your English with the help from both your teacher and your classmates. You will receive regular feedback on your work and be well supported to develop your English language to your best level. There is also a large bank of extracurricular material that you can use to help you during your independent study time which is available on our Virtual Learning Environment, CANVAS.

There will also be lots of opportunities for you to practise your speaking during the course, as well as group projects which you will take part in, and you will stay in regular contact with your teacher in tutorials and classes.

By the end of the course, we expect you to have a level of English that is the University of Sunderland equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0. This is the English language requirement for most University of Sunderland courses.

Facilities

You will have full access to all on campus facilities including the library, computer suites and open access Language Centre.

Entry Requirements

We welcome applications from those with an IELTS or equivalent score of 5 or above with no individual skill score (speaking, listening, reading and writing) lower than 4.5. If your level of English is higher than IELTS 5 you can study this course and achieve a score 1 band higher than your entry score.

However if your IELTS or equivalent score is higher or lower than 4.5, you can also choose one of these alternative courses to improve your English language skills:

• IELTS 4.5: English for Academic Purposes: Pre-Sessional English – Pre-Intermediate
• IELTS 5.5: English for Academic Purposes: Pre-Sessional English – Upper-Intermediate

Fees and Finance

The fee for this course is £2,000.

Related Courses

• English for Academic Purposes: Pre-sessional English – Pre-Intermediate
• English for Academic Purposes: Pre-sessional English – Upper-Intermediate

Degree Overview:

---

English for Academic Purposes Pre-sessional Course C

This pre-sessional course provides non-native English speakers with the necessary language and academic skills to succeed in their university studies at the University of Sunderland. Participants will improve their English proficiency and develop essential academic skills, such as note-taking, seminar participation, presentation delivery, reading strategies, and essay and report writing. The program also prepares them for university life in the UK by familiarizing them with the University's resources and expectations.

Outline:

---

This program features:

• Small group classes and larger group lectures: Facilitating personalized instruction and interaction with classmates and lecturers.
• Small group or individual tutorials: Providing individual feedback and guidance to enhance language development.
• A focus on academic skills development: Including note-taking, contributing to seminars, making presentations, reading strategies, and writing essays and reports.
• A comprehensive curriculum covering all four language skills: Reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
• Regular feedback on student work: Ensuring continuous improvement.
• Access to a vast collection of extracurricular materials for self-study through the CANVAS Virtual Learning Environment.

---

Typical Program Structure:

• Duration: 10 weeks
• Weekly Contact Hours: 21 hours (10 weeks 21 hours/week = 210 hours)
• Target English Proficiency Level: IELTS 6.0
• Course Format: A combination of small group classes, large group lectures, tutorials, and independent study.

---

Outline by Modules:

---

The following modules are covered in this pre-sessional course:

---

Academic Reading:

This module focuses on developing critical reading skills and strategies for comprehending and analyzing academic texts.

---

Academic Writing:

This module teaches students how to structure academic essays, reports, and other written assignments using appropriate academic vocabulary and style.

---

Academic Listening:

This module equips students with the necessary listening skills to understand lectures, seminars, and other spoken academic materials.

---

Academic Speaking:

This module provides opportunities for students to practice and develop their speaking skills in academic settings, such as presentations, discussions, and debates.

---

British Studies:

This module introduces students to British culture and society, helping them adapt to life in the UK.

Assessment:

---

Assessments in this program may include:

• Regular assignments and presentations: Assessing understanding of course materials and application of learned skills.
• Formal examinations: Evaluating students' overall progress and achievement of learning outcomes.
• Continuous evaluation of participation and engagement.

---

Assessment Criteria:

• Accuracy: Demonstrating understanding of grammatical structures and vocabulary.
• Fluency: Communicating clearly and effectively in a timely manner.
• Coherence and organization: Presenting ideas logically and cohesively.
• Critical thinking: Applying knowledge to analyze, interpret, and evaluate information.
• Effective use of academic writing and presentation conventions.

Teaching:

This program features:

• Small group teaching: Enabling individualized attention and interaction with the lecturer.
• Experienced and qualified tutors: Providing expertise and guidance.
• Varied and engaging teaching methods: Including lectures, discussions, group work, and practical activities.
• Regular feedback and support: Ensuring progress and development.
• Access to a well-equipped language center.

---

Unique Teaching Approach:

• Emphasis on active learning: Encouraging student participation and collaboration.
• Development of learner autonomy: Fostering self-study skills and independent learning.
• Integration of technology: Utilizing digital tools and resources to enhance the learning experience.
• Focus on communication skills: Developing effective written and oral communication for academic settings.
## Careers: This program prepares graduates for diverse career paths and postgraduate opportunities. Participants are equipped with the language and academic skills necessary for success in various disciplines and fields of study. ## Other:
• Full access to University facilities: Library, computer labs, and open access Language Centre.
• Joint CAS available for EAP and your chosen main program.

• Opportunities to meet fellow international students studying at the University.

• Head start in familiarizing yourself with the University and your surroundings before your main course begins.

Additional Information:

• This pre-sessional course does not require an interview, but you must meet specific English language proficiency requirements.
• The course schedule may be subject to adjustments, and students are expected to be familiar with the University's academic regulations and expectations.

University of Sunderland

---

Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

---

Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

---

Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

---

Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.