English modules for exchange students

The English Language Teaching Centre offers English Language credit-bearing modules to European Exchange and Study Abroad students in both semesters one and two. The modules are split into 4 areas of English language study.

ELTC students studying

Module details

Please click the headings below to find further information about the content and assessment methods of the modules running in each semester. The entry levels for each module are also stated and should be used as a guide to which are most suitable for you.

ELT5610 - English as a Foreign Language Upper-Intermediate 1 (20 credits)

'English as a Foreign Language (Upper-Intermediate 1)' is a language module offered by the ELTC at Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) - an internationally recognised benchmark of language ability.

More information on the CEFR. The module will be working from the 'can do' statements from the CEFR.

For example, at B2 level, typical users can be expected to:

  • understand the main ideas in complex pieces of writing
  • keep up a conversation on a fairly wide range of topics, expressing opinions and presenting arguments
  • produce clear, detailed writing, expressing opinions and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of different points of view.

The EFL (Upper-Intermediate 1) module will focus on these kinds of practical language skills.

Timetable

The module can be taken in Autumn semester one (ELT5610) and Spring semester two (ELT5602). Each module is 12 weeks of 4 hours a week.

Requirements

You should be a European Exchange, Study Abroad or visiting student whose first language is not English.

However, you should have an English level of at least 6.0 in IELTS, FCE (B), TOEFL IBT 87, CEF mid B2 or equivalent.

Those without a current language level score in a recognised exam can be given a placement test from the English Language Teaching Centre.

Priority for places will be given to those students who have English as a major subject in their home institution.

Course content

The module includes the improvement of English language skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking, as well as grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

The module is topic-based and will focus on areas on British society and culture.

The seminars will use a communicative approach to language teaching and encourage students to fully participate in the English language.

Assessment

The module is assessed in the following ways:

  • Writing Coursework (60%)
  • Speaking Assessment (40%)
ELT5611 -  English as a Foreign Language Advanced 1 (20 credits)

'English as a Foreign Language (Advanced 1)' is a 20-credit language module offered by the ELTC at Level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) - an internationally recognised benchmark of language ability.

More information on the CEFR

For example, at C1 level, typical users can be expected to:

  • read quickly enough to cope with an academic course understand complex opinions
  • produce clear, well-structured and detailed pieces of writing
  • express themselves well with a good degree of fluency
  • use English flexibly for social, professional and academic purposes.

Your EFL (Advanced 1) module will give you these kinds of practical language skills.

Timetable

The module can be taken in semester one (ELT5611) and semester two (ELT5621). Each module is 12 weeks of 4 hours a week.

Requirements

You should be a European Exchange, study abroad or visiting student whose first language is not English.

However, you should have an English level of at least 6.5 in IELTS, CAE (C), TOEFL IBT 91, CEF low C1 or equivalent. Those without a current language level score in a recognised exam can be given a placement test from the English Language Teaching Centre.

Priority for places will be given to those students who have English as a major subject in their home institution.

Course content

The module includes the improvement of English language skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking, as well as grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

The module is topic-based and will focus on areas on British society and culture.

The seminars will use a communicative approach to language teaching and encourage students to fully participate in the English language.

Assessment

The module is assessed in the following ways:

  • Writing Coursework (60%)
  • Speaking Assessment (40%)
ELT202 - English Language and Culture through Contemporary Literature (20 credits)

English Language and Culture through Contemporary Literature' is a module offered by the ELTC for the improvement of English in the 4 skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking). We will read the chosen text(s) in relation to British culture and social issues such as class, race and gender. You will learn how to apply close reading to text and develop an argument in relation to the text by focusing on literature- and language-specific aspects such as vocabulary, narrative voice, metaphor, and genre, among others. 

The module will be working towards the outcome of:

  • The analysis, interpretation and evaluation of a text in reference to its language, literary tradition and socio-cultural context through close reading and (optionally) the use of secondary sources.
  • The demonstration of understanding tutor feedback, and justifying the application of feedback to essay drafts.
  • The critical selection of information from the text(s), justifying choices in relation to social and literary context, and the collaborative interpretation and evaluation of the text in group discussions.
  • The production of academic and subject specific language and concepts appropriate for the level to create and articulate an interpretation of a text in writing and speaking.

Timetable

The module can be taken in semester one OR semester 2. There will be 2 classes per week. One 2 hour class and One 1 hour seminar (3 hours a week). 

Requirements 

You should be a European Exchange, Study Abroad or Visiting Student whose first language is not English.

However, you should have an English level of at least 6.0 in IELTS, FCE (B), TOEFL IBT 79, CEF mid B2 or equivalent and no more than 7.0 in IELTS, CAE (B), TOEFL IBT 100, CEF C1 or equivalent.

Those without a current language level score in a recognised exam can be given a placement test from the English Language Teaching Centre. Priority for places will be given to those students who have English as a major subject in their home institution.

Assessment

The module is assessed in the following ways:

  • Written Assessment  (70%)
  • Film Circles (30%)
ELT203 - English Language and Culture through News Media (20 credits)

An English language module offered by the ELTC to visiting exchange students. The module aims to improve students' knowledge and understanding of English language and culture through the study of British news media including TV and radio news, news websites, news accessed via social media, as well as traditional newspapers. You will learn about the linguistic and cultural characteristics of various forms of news media and will be encouraged to analyse these and discuss the issues they raise. 

You will also research and analyse key societal issues that are raised by the rapidly changing media landscape.

The module will be working towards the outcome of:

  • The analysis and evaluation of the impact of developments in British news media on public trust, engagement and society.
  • The critical analysis of current trends and linguistic strategies in British news media.
  • The understanding and analysis of the characteristics of English Language in the context of different aspects of British News Media.
  • The production of an appropriate example of the language, structure and components of a particular style of news.
  • The presentation of the analysis of an issue and resulting practical recommendations in a clear, structured, and engaging manner.

Timetable

The module can be taken in semester one OR semester 2. There will be 2 classes per week. One 2 hour class and One 1 hour seminar (3 hours a week). 

Requirements

You should be a European Exchange, Study Abroad or Visiting Student whose first language is not English. However, you should have an English level of at least 6.5 in IELTS, CAE (C), TOEFL IBT 91, CEF low C1 or equivalent.

Those without a current language level score in a recognised exam can be given a placement test from the English Language Teaching Centre. Priority for places will be given to those students who have English as a major subject in their home institution.

Assessment

The module is assessed in the following ways:

  • Written Assignment (50%)
  • Presentation (50%)
ELT102 - English for Academic Communication and Culture (20 credits)

An English language module offered by the ELTC to visiting exchange students. This module is aimed at students at CEFR B2 level.  

This module aims to develop the skills you need to communicate effectively and confidently in an English speaking university environment. You will explore how academic communication is shaped by culture - how ideas are expressed, how evidence is used and how students and teachers interact. Through reading, discussion, writing and presentation tasks, you will learn to analyse texts, express your own arguments clearly, and adapt to the expectations of UK higher education.

The module will be working towards the outcome of:

  • The analysis and interpretation of  academic texts, identifying key arguments, stance, and rhetorical structures while applying effective reading and note-making strategies
  • The production of coherent and well-structured academic writing, integrating evidence and sources appropriately using referencing conventions
  • The delivery of an academic presentation or seminar, using clear organisation, appropriate language, and supporting visuals to engage an audience.
    Reflection on progress and intercultural learning, identifying personal strengths and areas for development in academic communication.

Timetable

The module can be taken in semester one OR semester 2. There will be 2 classes per week. One 2 hour class and One 1 hour seminar (3 hours a week). 

Requirements

You should be a European Exchange, Study Abroad or Visiting Student whose first language is not English. However, you should have an English level of at least 6.5 in IELTS, CAE (C), TOEFL IBT 91, CEF low C1 or equivalent.

Those without a current language level score in a recognised exam can be given a placement test from the English Language Teaching Centre. Priority for places will be given to those students who have English as a major subject in their home institution.

Assessment

The module is assessed in the following ways:

  • An Academic Communication Portfolio (70%)
  • An Academic Presentation (30%)
ELT103 - An Introduction to TESOL Practical (20 credits)

This module aims to provide you with an opportunity to develop practical TESOL skills and develop your own English language skills (i.e. speaking, reading, writing and listening).  Over the course of the module, you will be introduced to lesson planning. You will learn how to choose and design activities and tasks to meet lesson aims. You will analyse and teach language in terms of meaning form and phonology and analyse and teach the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. You will also develop classroom management techniques which include the teacher’s use of language when setting tasks and giving feedback to students. You will use your TESOL skills in practice by carrying out peer teaching.

The module will be working towards the outcome of:

  • Planning a TESOL lesson effectively, including staging, selecting appropriate lesson activities, resources and materials and analysing language for teaching purposes.  This will be underpinned by relevant ELT teaching and learning theory. 
  • Delivering a TESOL lesson effectively and coherently. This includes creating a positive learning environment, explaining language and developing language skills, setting up and managing activities, using English effectively and providing feedback and correction to learners. 
  • Reflecting  on practice to improve and extend teaching skills. 

Timetable

The module can be taken in semester one. There will be 1 class  of 3 hours per week.  

This module is open to European Exchange and Study Abroad exchange students only and would suit those with an interest in or experience of teaching. A high level of English is needed to take the module (IELTS 7.5+)

A minimum number of students are required for the module to open.

Requirements

You should be a European Exchange, Study Abroad or Visiting Student whose first language is not English. However, you should have an English level of at least 6.5 in IELTS, CAE (C), TOEFL IBT 91, CEF low C1 or equivalent.

Those without a current language level score in a recognised exam can be given a placement test from the English Language Teaching Centre. Priority for places will be given to those students who have English as a major subject in their home institution.

Assessment

The module is assessed in the following ways:

  • Writing a lesson plan  (30%)
  • Assessed teaching practice (50%)
  • Reflection of teaching practice (20%)

English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

These 20-credit general English modules focus on the 4 skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, as well as vocabulary, pronunciation and grammar while covering topics on aspects of British society.

The module is available at 2 levels (Upper-intermediate and Advanced), so that you are taught and assessed at the right language level.

The course combines both skills and language classes and you are required to attend 2 classes of 2 hours per week (total 4 hours a week). The 2-hour skills classes aim to improve the 4 skills through reading texts, watching videos, completing tasks, group discussions/debates and giving presentations.

The weekly 2-hour language classes cover areas of grammar, lexis and phonology rising from the topics and texts in the skills sessions and includes time to investigate areas of linguistic interest/difficulty suggested by the participants.

Class sizes are a maximum of 20 and will allow space to practise language in a relaxed, yet purposeful setting. See below for more information on the EFL modules and language entry levels.


English Language and Culture (ELC)

These 20-credit language modules focus on a specific area of English-speaking culture and the literary genres associated with it. Language skills and accuracy is facilitated through the close study of a range of texts (mainly British) in the areas of Literature, News Media, Technology, and Film.

The classes encourage discussion and reflection of the cultural and linguistic issues raised in the texts. See below for more information on the individual modules.

Please note - these are primarily English language modules, not subject modules.


English for Academic Communication and Culture

This 20-credit module focuses on the use of the English language in academic and professional situations. The module aims to develop the skills you need to communicate in an English speaking university environment. You will explore how academic communication is shaped by culture.  

The modules will not only complement your current university study in the UK, but will also prove your capability in transferable professional skills. 


English Language Teaching (ELT)

ELT103 An Introduction to TESOL Practical is a 20-credit module which focuses on the practical skills needed in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Lesson planning, materials development, classroom management and teaching techniques are all covered. This module would suit those students with an interest in or experience of teaching. 


The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

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