Minor English Language and Culture Course Guide 2018-19 - OA-MINTCENG-13 Programme Code: Semester
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Minor English Language and Culture
Course Guide 2018-19
Programme Code: OA-MINTCENG-13
Semester: Fall / Spring / Fall & Spring (Lint)
Number of ECTS: 30
Language of Instruction: English
1
© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut ArchimedesTable of Contents
1 Introduction .........................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Course Overview.......................................................................................................................................5
2 English Language Level Before and After the Minor ...............................................................................6
2.1 Your level of English BEFORE the minor (B1 minimum) ...........................................................................6
2.2 Your level of English AFTER the minor (B2 minimum)..............................................................................6
2.3 Your level of English AFTER the minor (C1 target) ...................................................................................6
3 Course Descriptions ..............................................................................................................................7
3.1 Language Skills 1: Speaking and Writing ..................................................................................................7
3.1.1 General Information .........................................................................................................................7
3.1.2 Course Description ...........................................................................................................................7
3.1.3 Learning Objectives ..........................................................................................................................7
3.1.4 Testing ..............................................................................................................................................8
3.1.5 Materials ...........................................................................................................................................8
3.2 Culture 1: American Culture .....................................................................................................................9
3.2.1 General Information .........................................................................................................................9
3.2.2 Course Description ...........................................................................................................................9
3.2.3 Learning Objectives ..........................................................................................................................9
3.2.4 Testing ..............................................................................................................................................9
3.2.5 Materials ...........................................................................................................................................9
3.3 Grammar and Basics .............................................................................................................................. 10
3.3.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................... 10
3.3.2 Course Description ........................................................................................................................ 10
3.3.3 Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 10
3.3.4 Testing ........................................................................................................................................... 10
3.3.5 Materials ........................................................................................................................................ 10
3.4 Language Skills 2: Advanced Speaking and Writing............................................................................... 11
3.4.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................... 11
3.4.2 Course Description ........................................................................................................................ 11
3.4.3 Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 11
3.4.4 Testing ........................................................................................................................................... 12
3.4.5 Materials ........................................................................................................................................ 12
3.5 Culture 2: British Culture ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.5.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................... 13
3.5.2 Course Description ........................................................................................................................ 13
3.5.3 Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.5.4 Testing ........................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5.5 Materials ........................................................................................................................................ 14
3.6 Elective Course: Business English .......................................................................................................... 15
3.6.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................... 15
3.6.2 Course Description ........................................................................................................................ 15
3.6.3 Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 15
3.6.4 Testing ........................................................................................................................................... 15
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.6.5 Materials ........................................................................................................................................ 15
3.7 Elective Course: Cambridge Exam Training ........................................................................................... 16
3.7.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................... 16
3.7.2 Course Description ........................................................................................................................ 16
3.7.3 Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 16
3.7.4 Testing ........................................................................................................................................... 16
3.7.5 Materials ........................................................................................................................................ 16
3.8 Elective Course: Short Stories................................................................................................................ 18
3.8.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................... 18
3.8.2 Course Description ........................................................................................................................ 18
3.8.3 Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 18
3.8.4 Testing ........................................................................................................................................... 18
3.8.5 Materials ........................................................................................................................................ 18
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes1 Introduction
We live in a globalized community where the borders between countries no longer exist when it comes to the
economy, communication and tourism. In many professional contexts, therefore, excellent command of a first
language is no longer enough and effective communication in an international language has become essential.
English is world language number one and a good command of this language will enhance your professional
chances. During this minor you work on improving your English language skills for two periods.
In period one you will start off with a course on language skills, which is aimed at improving your fluency and
confidence, acquiring the basic principles of formal writing and learning to analyse your own proficiency in
speaking and writing. Alongside the language skills course you will also take a grammar and basics course,
which is aimed at supporting you to become a better speaker and writer of English by teaching you about
spelling, grammar and pronunciation. During period one you will also familiarize yourself with the American
culture by learning about American history, politics and people.
In period two you continue training your language skills at a more advanced level. The speaking and writing
classes in period two focus more on formal use of language. After learning about American culture, students
now focus on contemporary British culture. This course gives students the opportunity to visit Britain for a
week (this will not be financed by HU). For the last 5 EC students can choose a course that best suits their
ambitions and development. We offer Business English, Cambridge Exam Training and Literature (note: there
are limited spaces available on each course).
Your level of English is the starting point for the minor. Before you start taking classes you are assessed and
together with your teachers you decide what you want and have to work on in order to achieve the language
level you are aiming for. Your teachers are native speakers or have spent a longer period of time in an English
speaking country. All classes are taught in English and you are assumed to have at least a CEF B1 level of
English.
This minor is interesting to any student who will have international contacts during their future career or who
believes that English proficiency is important in any context. On top of that the minor is a good addition to the
general professional competencies.
Kate Cousins (Coordinator)
kate.cousins@hu.nl
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes1.1 Course Overview
Period A
OA-MINTCENG1-18 Language Skills 1: Speaking and Writing 5EC
OA-MINTCENG2-14 Culture 1: American Culture 5EC
OA-MINTCENG3-12 Grammar and Basics 5EC
Period B
OA-MINTCENG4-12 Language Skills 2: Advanced Speaking and Writing 5EC
OA-MINTCENG5-16 Culture 2: British Culture 5EC
OA-MINTCENG6A-17* Elective Course: Business English 5EC
OA-MINTCENG6B-17* Elective Course: Cambridge Exam Training 5EC
OA-MINTCENG6C-17* Elective Course: Short Stories 5EC
* NOTE: You may only choose ONE elective course to follow. Each elective course is limited to 30 spaces.
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes2 English Language Level Before and After the Minor
2.1 Your level of English BEFORE the 2.2 Your level of English AFTER the 2.3 Your level of English AFTER the
minor (B1 minimum) minor (B2 minimum) minor (C1 target)
Listening Listening Listening
I can understand the main points of clear standard I can understand extended speech and lectures and I can understand extended speech even when it is
speech on familiar matters regularly encountered in follow even complex lines of argument provided the not clearly structured and when relationships are
work, school, leisure, etc. I can understand the main topic is reasonably familiar. I can understand most only implied and not signalled explicitly. I can
point of many radio or TV programmes on current TV news and current affairs programmes. I can understand television programmes and films
affairs or topics of personal or professional interest understand the majority of films in standard dialect. without too much effort.
when the delivery is relatively slow and clear.
Reading Reading
Reading I can read articles and reports concerned with I can understand long and complex factual and
I can understand texts that consist mainly of high contemporary problems in which the writers adopt literary texts, appreciating distinctions of style. I can
frequency every day or job-related language. I can particular attitudes or viewpoints. I can understand understand specialised articles and longer technical
understand the description of events, feelings and contemporary literary prose. instructions, even when they do not relate to my
wishes in personal letters. field.
Speaking
Speaking I can interact with a degree of fluency and Speaking
I can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst spontaneity that makes regular interaction with I can express myself fluently and spontaneously
travelling in an area where the language is spoken. I native speakers quite possible. I can take an without much obvious searching for expressions. I
can enter unprepared into conversation on topics active part in discussion in familiar contexts, can use language flexibly and effectively for social
that are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to and professional purposes. I can formulate ideas and
accounting for and sustaining my views. I can
everyday life (e.g. family, hobbies, work, travel and opinions with precision and relate my contribution
current events). I can connect phrases in a simple
present clear, detailed descriptions on a wide skillfully to those of other speakers. I can present
way in order to describe experiences and events, my range of subjects related to my field of interest. clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects
dreams, hopes & ambitions. I can briefly give I can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue integrating sub-themes, developing particular points
reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. I giving the advantages and disadvantages of and rounding off with an appropriate conclusion.
can narrate a story or relate the plot of a book or various options.
Writing
film and describe my reactions.
Writing I can express myself in clear, well-structured text,
Writing I can write clear, detailed text on a wide range of expressing points of view at some length. I can write
I can write simple connected text on topics which subjects related to my interests. I can write an essay detailed expositions of complex subjects in an essay
are familiar or of personal interest. I can write or report, passing on information or giving reasons or a report, underlining what I consider to be the
personal letters describing experiences and in support of or against a particular points of view. I salient issues. I can write different kinds of texts in a
impressions. I can write straightforward connected can write letters highlighting the personal style appropriate to the reader in mind. I can
text on topics, which are familiar, or of personal significance of events and experiences. express myself with clarity and precision, relating to
interest. the addressee flexibly and effectively in an assured,
personal, style.
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3 Course Descriptions
3.1 Language Skills 1: Speaking and Writing
3.1.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG1-18
ECTS 5
Period A or C
Resit Period B or D
Contact time 2 x 2hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/taalvaardigheid-1-speaking-and-
writing?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins
3.1.2 Course Description
This is a course of two halves: 2 hours speaking and 2 hours writing a week. This allows you to focus on the
specific aspects of each skill such as fluency and pronunciation in speaking, and structure, cohesion and word
choice in writing. During speaking you will record yourself and do various role-play and improvisation activities
in class and get lots of feedback from your teacher. During writing you will do various creative writing
assignments allowing you to develop your use of structure, vocabulary and grammar to effectively
communicate your ideas.
3.1.3 Learning Objectives
Speaking:
Students can introduce themselves and other people fluently and respond to questions about familiar
topics spontaneously.
Students can identify areas of weakness in their spoken English.
Students can formulate a realistic plan of action to improve their spoken English in a 5-week time
frame.
Students can speak in a fluent, detailed, structured and engaging manner about a topic they are
familiar with.
Students can improve the accuracy of their spoken English with regard to their pronunciation, grammar
and vocabulary.
Students can solve a problem in an informal/semi-formal situation.
Students can hold a fluent meaningful discussion lasting 5 minutes.
Students can ask questions to obtain information, provide relevant, detailed information, check for
understanding and negotiate in English.
Students can speak at a minimum of CEF level B1+.
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut ArchimedesWriting:
Students can write structured pieces such as stories or blogs with a beginning, middle and ending, with
a clear message of between 500 and 750 words.
Students can edit their work based on feedback to improve the accuracy and communicative success of
the piece.
Students can write descriptively and meaningfully about their own experiences and a places they have
visited.
Students are aware of differences between spoken and written English and can adopt an appropriate
register for the topic, genre and target audience.
The student can write at a minimum of a CEF level B1+.
3.1.4 Testing
Test 1 Speaking Portfolio (50%)
Test 2 Writing Portfolio (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
3.1.5 Materials
There are no compulsory books for this course. All necessary materials will be made available on the HUbl
website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/taalvaardigheid-1-speaking-and-writing?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.2 Culture 1: American Culture
3.2.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG2-14
ECTS 5
Period A or C
Resit Period B or D
Contact time 2 x 2hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/american-culture?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins
3.2.2 Course Description
This course introduces you to the history, culture and people of the United States. You will learn about themes
such as politics, history, religion and international relations. For this course you will listen to online radio and
television broadcasts, read a book about American culture and watch relevant film material.
3.2.3 Learning Objectives
Students are familiar with the most important themes regarding America’s land and culture.
Students gain insight into the important effects of key events in American history.
Students understand the role of religion in American society.
Students are introduced to America’s political system.
Students can research and give a presentation about a topic related to American culture in English.
Students read at least one recent book or a variety of articles from an American newspaper about
American culture and can explain the key points made about American culture in a written report.
Students can give a presentation in which they explain the importance to American society of the story
from a film
Students can meaningfully use all four skills (speaking, listening, reading & writing) to learn about and
effectively express their ideas about American culture.
3.2.4 Testing
Test 1 Exam (50%)
Test 2 Presentation & Report (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
3.2.5 Materials
Book: Fry, Stephen (2008). Stephen Fry in America. London: Harper Collins.
All supplementary materials will be made available on the HUbl website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/american-
culture?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.3 Grammar and Basics
3.3.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG3-12
ECTS 5
Period A or C
Resit Period B or D
Contact time 2 x 2hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/grammar-and-basics?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins
3.3.2 Course Description
This course is aimed at giving you all the basics you need to be able to improve your speaking and writing skills.
You will learn about English grammar, spelling and pronunciation. The course is very practical; you will work on
the feedback you get from your speaking and writing teachers, allowing you to practice and improve your
English as much as possible and consequently achieve higher grades in Language Skills 1.
3.3.3 Learning Objectives
Students can apply the most important grammar rules in their written English
Students can apply the most important spelling rules in their written English
Students are aware of the most common pronunciation errors for Dutch (and other non-native)
speakers of English and practice correcting these
3.3.4 Testing
Test 1 Exam (100%)
3.3.5 Materials
Book: Murphy, Raymond. (2012) English Grammar in Use Fourth Edition (with answers and CD-ROM)
ISBN 9780521189392
All supplementary materials will be made available on the HUbl website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/grammar-
and-basics?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.4 Language Skills 2: Advanced Speaking and Writing
3.4.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG4-12
ECTS 5
Period B or D
Resit Period C or E
Contact time 2 x 2hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/taalvaardigheid-2-advanced-speaking-and-
writing?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins
3.4.2 Course Description
By now you can speak and write fluently and coherently in informal situations and about informal, familiar
topics. In this course you will focus on your formal written and spoken English. During speaking you will do
elevator pitches, speeches and debates in which you will describe and justify your opinions about various
formal topics. During writing you will learn how to analyse and incorporate sources to write formal structured
texts such as argumentative essays.
3.4.3 Learning Objectives
Speaking:
Students can give an informative or persuasive speech about a topic of their choice of between 4 and 6
minutes using only keywords as memory aids.
Students can hold a formal debate with an opponent about a controversial topic that lasts between 10
and 14 minutes.
Students can adopt the appropriate register for the intended audience and use correct formal
vocabulary.
Students can give a well-structured argumentative speech with a clear introduction, body and
conclusion.
Students can respond to opposing arguments spontaneously, cohesively and convincingly.
Students can summarise the main points of an argument clearly and persuasively.
Students can reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of their spoken English and determine how they
will maintain / improve their level in the future.
Students can speak at CEFR B2 level with an emphasis on fluency and formal style (speech & debate).
Students can speak at CEFR B2 level with an emphasis on formal language, pronunciation and
grammatical accuracy (video presentation).
Writing:
Students can write a formal 500 words (+/-10%) essay in response to a given topic.
Students can write an argumentative essay according to the deductive structure, including a thesis,
introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences discussing one premise each, and a conclusion.
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes Students can incorporate sources supporting their argumentation into their writing reliably and
according to APA guidelines.
Students are aware of formal language rules in written English.
Students can write at CEFR B2 level.
3.4.4 Testing
Test 1 Speaking Portfolio (50%)
Test 2 Writing Exam (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
3.4.5 Materials
There are no compulsory books for this course. All necessary materials will be made available on the HUbl
website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/taalvaardigheid-2-advanced-speaking-and-writing?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.5 Culture 2: British Culture
3.5.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG5-16
ECTS 5
Period B or D
Resit Period C or E
Contact time 2 x 2hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/british-culture?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins
3.5.2 Course Description
During this course you will immerse yourself in contemporary British culture by reading a book about Britain,
reading books and online newspapers, watching British TV and films and listening to the radio. You will reflect
on what you’ve learned in a blog every week. Moreover, you are free from classes for 1 week giving you the
opportunity to go to Britain to conduct your research project into one aspect of British culture that interests
you. (NOTE: you have to organize and finance the research trip yourself.) You will report you findings in a
(video) presentation and in a feature article.
3.5.3 Learning Objectives
Students become familiar with the land and culture of the United Kingdom.
Students gain insight into the contemporary cultural and political developments in the United
Kingdom.
Students are familiar with important people and events in the UK’s history.
Students are introduced to the UK political system.
Students can plan and undertake a research project into UK culture and present their findings in
English in a TV-show presentation and feature article.
Students can communicate meaningfully with native speakers of English about an aspect of UK culture.
Students can compare information about various aspects of UK culture from written and audio sources,
and present a summary of the information along with their own opinion about the topics in the form of
10 blogs.
Students can meaningfully use all four skills (speaking, listening, reading & writing) to learn about and
effectively express their ideas about UK culture.
Students demonstrate that their English is at least CEFR B2 level.
3.5.4 Testing
Test 1 Research Project: Presentation and Article (50%)
Test 2 Culture Blog (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.5.5 Materials
Book: O’Driscoll, James. (2009). Britain, for Learners of English. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
ISBN 9780194306447
All supplementary materials will be made available on the HUbl website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/british-
culture?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.6 Elective Course: Business English
3.6.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG6A-17
ECTS 5
Period B or D
Resit Period C or E
Contact time 1 x 3hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/business-english?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins & Mieke van Berkel
3.6.2 Course Description
In this course, students acquire the necessary skills to feel comfortable in and develop a positive attitude
towards functioning within an English business environment. Students acquire knowledge of international
business etiquette and develop their formal English writing and oral skills, through different writing
assignments and presentations, resulting in a "Business English Portfolio" and a Personal Glossary of Business
English.
3.6.3 Learning Objectives
Students acquire the language skills necessary to conduct themselves in an English language business
environment.
Students develop a positive attitude with regard to all the aspects of the English language
Students deepen their understanding of the English language and culture
3.6.4 Testing
Test 1 Job application portfolio (50%)
Test 2 Product presentation and report (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
3.6.5 Materials
There are no compulsory books for this course. All necessary materials will be made available on the HUbl
website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/business-english?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.7 Elective Course: Cambridge Exam Training
3.7.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG6B-17
ECTS 5
Period B or D
Resit Period C or E
Contact time 1 x 3hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/cambridge-exam-training?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins
3.7.2 Course Description
This course is aimed at preparing you for either the FCE (B2 level) or CAE (C1 level) Cambridge exam. The
Cambridge exams are known across the world and acknowledged by many organisations. During this course
you will familiarise yourself with the design of the tests and work on the skills needed to pass the separate
speaking, writing, listening, reading and use of English tests. At the end of the course you will do mock a
Cambridge exam at your chosen level. (NOTE: if you wish to obtain an official Cambridge certificate you are
responsible for organising and financing this yourself.)
3.7.3 Learning Objectives
Students are familiar with the style of testing and grading used by Cambridge English.
Students know how to correctly structure and formulate each of the writing assignments presented on
the Cambridge tests.
Students are familiar with the differences between different test levels.
Students can identify their own test taking strengths and weaknesses.
Students can pass a mock Cambridge test at a level suitable for them: First (B2), Advanced (C1) or
Proficiency (C2).
3.7.4 Testing
Test 1 Speaking and Listening exam (50%)
Test 2 Use of English & Reading and Writing exam (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
3.7.5 Materials
NOTE: You will buy ONE book for the level recommended by your Period A teachers and based on a pre-test
result.
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut ArchimedesBook: Cambridge ESOL (2012) Cambridge English Proficiency 1 for Updated Exam Student's Book with
Answers. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge. ISBN: 9781107695047
Cambridge ESOL (2012) Cambridge English Advanced 1 for Revised Exam from 2015 Student's Book with
Answers. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge. ISBN: 9781107653511
Cambridge ESOL (2012) Cambridge English First 1 for Revised Exam from 2015 Student's Book with
Answers. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge. ISBN: 9781107695917
All supplementary materials will be made available on the HUbl website:
https://hubl.hu.nl/module/cambridge-exam-training?combi_course=426566
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© Hogeschool Utrecht, Instituut Archimedes3.8 Elective Course: Short Stories
3.8.1 General Information
Course Code OA-MINTCENG6C-17
ECTS 5
Period B or D
Resit Period C or E
Contact time 1 x 3hrs per week
HUbl site https://hubl.hu.nl/module/short-stories-english-
minor?combi_course=426566
Contact person Kate Cousins & Tomas Pollard
3.8.2 Course Description
The course gives you the chance to read and discuss a number of short stories by prominent American and
British authors. Each week you will read 2 or 3 short stories. You will develop an understanding of how short
stories are written by analysing the stories for elements of fiction such as plot, point of view and irony.
3.8.3 Learning Objectives
Speaking:
Students are familiar with the most important terms for literary analysis.
Students can recognised and describe the effect of these literary features in short stories.
Students are familiar with English language short stories.
Students develop their English critical and analytical reading skills.
Optional: Students can apply and analyse literary features in their own creative short story writing.
3.8.4 Testing
Test 1 Exam (50%)
Test 2 Google Doc: Short story analysis / creative short story writing (50%)
You must pass both tests to complete the course.
3.8.5 Materials
There are no compulsory books for this course. All necessary materials will be made available on the HUbl
website: https://hubl.hu.nl/module/short-stories-english-minor?combi_course=426566
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