This course explores the language used for research across the natural sciences, specifically focusing on typical grammatical structures, vocabulary/idioms, and written forms. Basing ourselves on a common core, participants select readings to be used as the basis for group presentations. Regular in-class participation, completion of homework tasks, and development of brief team and individual presentations and writing assignments will be expected.

This course will focus on the language of legal discourse in various areas of English law. You will deal with a variety of topics from both civil law and the criminal justice system (e.g. the civil and criminal courts, the legal profession, contract law, the jury system, the elements of the crime, analysis of various offences). While all language skills are practised, the focus is on reading and speaking. As home assignment, you will prepare a short case presentation. A lot of effort will be put into boosting the range of vocabulary, with a special focus on the adequate use of legal language. Grammar practice will be remedial. The Leistungsnachweis will be awarded on the basis of regular and active participation and the final tests in reading, speaking and vocabulary/grammar.

This course is designed to improve students’ reading, speaking, listening and writing skills. There will be ample opportunity to boost vocabulary and revise and improve knowledge of grammar. Students are expected to give a presentation on a subject of their choice, which will be graded. Credit will be obtained on the basis of regular and active participation, as well as successful completion of the final reading, writing, vocab/grammar and listening comprehension tests. 

This course is designed to develop all four language skills, namely: reading, writing, listening and speaking. With regards to listening, the focus will be on listening for gist as well as for specific information. Formal discussions, debating, spontaneous speaking and presentations will be the main areas concentrated on during the speaking sections. In reading, the focus is on comprehension, vocabulary development and reading rate. In writing, the emphasis will be on sentence structure, paragraph organisation and the use of formal vocabulary. The Leistungsnachweis will be awarded on the basis of regular and active participation as well as successful completion of the final test. The test will take place on the Thursday of the last week and will consist of a short listening and reading test. Additionally, course participants will have to write a short essay. The final grade will also contain a speaking component based on a short class presentation to be done during the course.