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Join Professor Lori Rottenberg for an in-depth English language course focused on building fluency in writing, reading, academic vocabulary, grammar skills, and critical thinking. This class is crucial for students aiming to excel in Pathway Programs or gain direct admission to universities.
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Professor Lori Rottenberg Email lrottenb@gmu.edu B.A. Creative Writing M.A. Linguistics and Teaching ESL Taught ESL at VT, Georgetown, and GMU 20 years as professional writer and editor, continue to publish poetry Visiting poet for Arlington Public Schools since 2007
Goals of the Class Build fluency in writing Build fluency in reading Build academic vocabulary Build grammar skills Build critical thinking
Critical Thinking Cornerstone of American education Based on questioning and independence of thought rather than memorization and reliance on authority Based on being able to SUPPORT your positions and ideas Video: http://philosophy.hku.hk/think/critical/ct.php
Syllabus • Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes • Course Textbooks and Online Materials • Course Requirements • Grading • Online Resources • Course Expectations • Honor Code, Advising, and Accommodations
Course Requirements • Daily in-class exercises • Online grammar and reading homework • Weekly journals • Writing (in-class and take home) • Tests and quizzes • Extended reading and assessments • Finals: • Final book project • Common final exam
Why This Level Is Crucial • Many of you apply to: • Pathways Programs • Direct admission to GMU or other universities • One of your last chances to perfect your English skills before entering academia!
Remember… • You must get at least an 80% to pass this class! • You are “auditioning” for a recommendation starting on Day 1!
How to Do Well in This Class • Come to class, on time and ready to work. • Pay attention in class, ask questions, and contribute to class discussions and small groups. • Do all your homework—yourself! • Work carefully on written assignments. • Spend time outside of class reading and writing in English EVERY DAY.
Ways to Get Help • Request tutoring at LRC • Ask to meet with me • Attend every extra workshop and elective class you can! • Read in English as much as you can!
Reading Rocks! • “A large amount of research has shown that one criterion – vocabulary – is most difficult…The most common problem IELTS candidates have is that their vocabulary is limited. It is boring, repetitive, childish, or inaccurate. Perhaps the tone of their language is also inappropriate. Essentially this is due to their not ever reading much in English. Reading exposes you to vocabulary most quickly.” (Sorrenson, 2012, p.8)
I shine the flashlight to guide your way, but only YOU can walk the path. My Model for Learning… No! Yes!
Introductions Your name How long have you studied English in the U.S.? How long did you study English before that? What do you want to do after your English studies? What specific things do you want to improve in your English this semester?
Homework • Buy textbooks from the bookstore: • Focus on Grammar 5/Focus on Writing 5 • Reading Explorer 4 • Oliver Twist • Buy Focus on Grammar 5 MyEnglishLab • Read syllabus in detail. • Journals (at least 25 sentences): Due Friday
