English: Speaking and Writing in the Natural and Health Sciences

This course improves the accuracy, fluency and efficacy of participants' speech and writing in the natural and health sciences for academic, research and professional settings.

Scientific vocabulary for oral presentations and academic writing is developed using authentic print and audio input on contemporary issues from a range of natural and health science disciplines (from the life and environmental sciences, to nanosciences, chemistry and physics).

We practice the correct use of scientific jargon and other aspects of speaking central to explaining scientific contents. In addition, participants train and develop the features of writing common in the natural and health sciences. By analyzing the components of scientific written materials, we also discuss strategies to strengthen participants’ reading skills.

Upon completion of this course, participants can enroll in advanced speaking and writing courses, such as:

English: Presentation and Discussion in Academic and Professional Settings
Writing to Be Published for the Natural Sciences
Composing Attractive Abstracts

Course information

This course has been cancelled.
Course level
C1
Date
24.09.2018–10.12.2018
24 Lessons
Lecturer
Kumiko Masai, PhD
Credit points
3 ECTS
Registration deadline
Sunday 16.09.2018
Course fee
Students and PhD candidates: CHF 291.00
Members of staff: CHF 579.00
Alumni: CHF 579.00
Registration

Course materials

Script

Requirements

Requirements for acquisition of credit points

In order to receive credit points, candidates will

  • not be absent more than twice,
  • submit four satisfactory written assignments (if an assignment is unsatisfactory, it may be resubmitted once),
  • deliver one oral presentation, followed by a class discussion,
  • submit a portfolio consisting of the four written assignments, along with the improved versions thereof, and the support materials for the oral presentation.

You can get a total of 3 credit points.

Students are assessed by means of a portfolio (pass/fail).

Homework

± 90 minutes / week

Certificate of attendance

In order to receive a certificate of attendance (available on request) for this course, you are not allowed to be absent more than maximum two times.

Placement test

This course requires either an obligatory computer placement test or completion of a preceding course. If you have not attended a preceding course, a computer placement test has to be taken prior to registration.

Replacement date

The supplementary replacement date for lessons that might not take place is: 01.12.2018 from 10h - 16h

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