Descriptif

Course description: The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Internet-Based Test measures your ability to use and understand English at university level. Academic institutions all over the world accept (and in the case of the US, actually prefer) the TOEFL as proof of your language level. This course is designed to help you to prepare for the TOEFL IBT or similar exams, working on your oral and written expression, as well as your listening and reading comprehension.

Learning Outcomes: Linguistic objectives: to use and develop English language skills through speaking activities, listening comprehension, written expression, reading, vocabulary acquisition and, where necessary, correction and revision of grammar, adapted to the needs of the student.

We will look at the format of the test and share tips. Even if you decide not to sign up for the test (taken independently at an ETS testing centre), you will practise and improve your skills in all four areas. Exam practice will be alternated with a variety of more communicative exercises.

Class Format: One weekly class of 2 hours

Course Content and Material:

Oral expression: spontaneous and prepared, test practice, discussion, debate, short presentations

Listening comprehension: test practice as well as understanding of other materials, understanding each other in class

Written expression: writing for the TOEFL test

Reading comprehension: mainly test practice, but also research on topics

Pronunciation: error correction, exercises, and recording your voice

Vocabulary acquisition: enriching your expression by using more sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures; work on collocations and everyday language

Grammar correction, revision and exercises (oral and written)

As far as possible, the course content will be flexible and tailor-made to the needs of the students enrolled. We may look at other exams if students are interested (IELTS, GRE).

Teaching Methods:

Speaking activities in pairs and in small groups; one-to-one ‘interviews’ with the teacher; full-group discussions; recording your voice; listening comprehension with questions; grammar and vocabulary exercises. Written expression both in class and home followed by corrections and tips.

Individual Work:

Students will be expected to participate actively in all class activities and to concentrate on improving their identified weak points. New vocabulary must be assimilated between classes; grammar/test practice exercises must be completed. Research and preparation may be needed. TOEFL test sections may be given as homework (particularly writing and reading).

Evaluation:

Continual assessment of participation, effort, motivation and progression.