Academic English Preparation Course

What will we cover?

A variety of academic English skills will be explored, tailored to the needs of the group. Core topics typically include: 

• Academic speaking skills, including: 
  • Participating in seminars and tutorials 
  • Expressing opinions, agreeing/disagreeing respectfully 
  • Asking and responding to questions appropriately 
• Academic writing skills, such as: 
  • Structuring essays, reports, and research papers 
  • Writing clear introductions, arguments, and conclusions 
  • Using appropriate academic tone and referencing styles 
• Listening skills, including: 
  • Understanding and taking notes during lectures 
  • Identifying key ideas and supporting details 
  • Recognizing academic signposting language 
• Reading skills, including: 
  • Skimming, scanning, and critical reading 
  • Interpreting academic articles, charts, and data 
  • Identifying argument structure and author bias 
• Pronunciation and fluency training for presentations and discussions 
• Academic vocabulary development, including collocations and subject-specific terms 
• Grammar in academic contexts, focusing on clarity, accuracy, and formality 
• Presentation skills, including visual aids, academic language, and body language 
• Cross-cultural communication in academic settings, including understanding academic expectations in English-speaking institutions 

What Will I Achieve?

By the end of this course, you should be able to: 

• Communicate more confidently in academic discussions and presentations 
• Write academic texts with improved clarity, structure, and coherence 
• Understand and engage with academic lectures and materials more effectively 
• Expand your academic vocabulary and use it accurately 
• Apply appropriate grammar in academic writing and speaking 
• Read and analyze complex academic texts with confidence 
• Use referencing styles correctly and avoid plagiarism 
• Present your research or ideas clearly and persuasively 
• Participate successfully in an English-speaking academic environment 

Eligibility

The language level required to attend this program is intermediate to upper intermediate. Students will have to submit proof of their English Language Proficiency (e.g. IELTS/TOEFL certificates) or take a free online assessment, designed by the IELTS School of Toronto.