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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (09.09.2020)
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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (09.09.2020)
Aims of the Course - To gain confidence when discussing current affairs in English, including development of vocabulary and phrases used in current affairs, language for expressing opinions, using evidence and politely disagreeing - To develop critical thinking and analytical skills concerning current affairs - To gain knowledge of current affairs and events and underlying issues and causes |
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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (09.09.2020)
Students should use reliable news sources and academic literature when researching ongoing/recent global events and affairs. The course will use authentic materials from news sources such as the BBC, Reuters, the Economist and academic literature. Articles, videos, interviews and other subject-specific materials may be used. |
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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (09.10.2020)
The course will be online at the following Zoom link: https://cesnet.zoom.us/j/96873027282
Students will become familiar with and discuss current affairs and events throughout the semester. -Topics for discussion will be selected by students. These can be from any region in the world. -Discussion will provide opportunities to work on language development through examining problematic areas and broadening social science vocabulary. -Due to the nature of this course attendance is very important; students are allowed two unexcused absences without penalty. -Some lessons may include guest speakers, listening and other related discussion activities. -Should a ‘significant’ event (war/disaster/etc.) occur during the course, this will be added to the schedule. |
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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (04.10.2020)
Credit for the course will be awarded based on the following: 50%- Class participation (contribution to discussions will be noted in each class) 30%- Short Policy Briefing 20%- Presentation or video (in pairs)
SHORT POLICY BRIEFING Each student will prepare a short policy briefing (3 pages, double spaced – 700-1000 words) on an ongoing or recent current affairs topic of his or her choice. THE POLICY BRIEFING IS DUE ON THE FRIDAY BEFORE THE LESSON AT 9:00 AM so students can read it to prepare for the discussion.
Information on the structure and content of the policy briefing will be given at the first lesson and a sample briefing will be put on SIS. Use of maps, graphs and other visuals is encouraged.
The purpose of the policy briefing is to facilitate discussion by providing students with the following information on the topic before the lesson: 1 brief background information to understand the context 2 basic information on the topic and the issues including links to sources 3 discussion questions (to guide, structure and focus the discussion)
PRESENTATION OR VIDEO In pairs students will create a 5 minute presentation or 2 minute video focusing on a current affairs topic of their choice.
There are three options regarding the content. More details will be given in the first lesson. 1 an innovative solution to a current problem 2 a current news story 3 presentation of a position that other students can argue against, supported with evidence and examples
Presentations or videos not given in the assigned class must be given in the following class for half a credit (barring a credible excuse). |
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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (04.10.2020)
Discussion topics in the field of current affairs will be selected by the students in consultation with the instructor. They can include any region of the world.
The structure of the lessons will be as follows: Short student presentation or video followed by discussion Discussion on the topic of the policy briefing Some lessons may have a different structure for example including a guest speaker or listening to English language interviews or analysis. |
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Poslední úprava: Pamela Danielle Cotte, M.A. (09.09.2020)
Students should have a B2+ level of English. The course is open to students from all institutes. The minimum number of participants is 8. |