LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE WIRED WORLD

Introduction

In this course we will examine some modern trends and the dilemmas they present for us. Are social media inhibiting our ability to communicate face-to-face? Is advertising deforming our perception of life? Are reality TV shows blurring the lines between truth and lies? We will view some films, such as The Truman Show, that highlight contemporary issues and use them to explore those themes.

Acquis d'apprentissage

To improve students’ ability to formulate and express ideas in correct English
To expand vocabulary resources including use of idioms
To sharpen oral presentation skills in various formats
To assemble and express ideas in a written form
To clarify selected grammar points

Contenu

The course is designed to enable students to use and improve their existing English language skills through lively discussions fueled by film segments. The students will be required to participate orally during class every week, individually and in pairs. In addition, students are required to assemble information in the form of short talks to share in class. Although the emphasis is on strengthening public speaking, coursework will involve all of the major skills: listening, speaking, reading comprehension and some writing. The course includes regular sessions of vocabulary review and some grammar revision. Weekly readings on current events related to these subjects will supply us with the wider context.

Attentes du cours

Students are expected to display interest and participate actively in class. Homework assignments must be handed in punctually. Students are responsible for learning vocabulary and grammar lessons. Students will be asked to present oral presentations on topics related to the film as part of the class content. Students are expected to keep up with the film on their own time in the event of an unavoidable absence. All electronic devices must be turned off BEFORE entering the class.

Evaluation

Grading will be on a scale of 0-20.
50% Continuous Assessment: oral participation, oral presentation, homework and mid semester quiz
50% Final examination
Validating the Tandem course will add 2 bonus points in the continuous assessment grade of the corresponding language course.
Chaque absence non justifiée entrainera 1 point en moins sur la note de CC.

Approches pédagogiques

A typical class will begin with vocabulary: revision of previous and introduction of new. The film segment will be introduced, viewed and summarized. Class discussions will revolve around selected topics proposed each week by the teacher. Students will prepare short talks in groups. After break there will be a short grammar lesson. The end of the class time will vary in terms of activities. Homework will follow from the coursework.

Programme

Programme grande école,Programme Ingénieur,Programme Bachelor

Plan du cours

1 TTS: Introduction to the film themes:
Vocabulary/ Film segment 1/comprehension questions and class discussion on broader themes
OP theme list for students
Grammar review: Using all the tenses
Reading:
2 TTS: segment 2:
Oral Presentation on film theme
Grammar review: using modals correctly
Reading:
3 TTS segment 3:
Oral presentation on film theme
Grammar review: compound adjectives review
Reading:
4 segment 4:
Oral presentation on film theme
How to create OP slides workshop
Reading:
5 segment 5:
Oral presentation on film theme
Grammar review: phrasal verbs
Reading:
6 vocabulary and grammar quiz
Writing an opinion essay workshop