OVERVIEW

This is not just an English language class. The focus is on English vocabulary for communication professionals. Students will be introduced to themes, techniques and strategies for communication in English, with special attention devoted to neuroscience, storytelling, marketing, and the news world.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Three main outcomes are envisioned: 1) acquiring language proficiency, up to or beyond B2 level (Upper Intermediate) as defined by CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages); 2) acquiring vocabulary more specifically related to communication; 3) refining communication skills with more specific reference to storytelling, marketing, and professional communication.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Learning outcomes can be summarized as follows:

1) acquiring or reinforcing the students’ language skills up to or above QCER B2 level

2) improving the students’ written communication skills through dedicated exercises (with specific attention to storytelling and the evaluation of sources, including visual ones)

3) improving the students’ presentation skills through a discussion of actual examples (e.g. TED Talks), and a reflection on the principal subconscious mechanisms involved in the transmission of information

By the end of the semester, students will master the mechanisms of communication and will acquire the confidence needed to write presentations, assignments, and their final theses.

PREREQUISITES

Students must sign in for the virtual class on the Pearson MyLab website, which is only possible after purchase of a NEW (hard or digital) copy of the textbook

TEACHING METHODS

Interactive in-person classes, complemented by self-paced homework.

Our textbook gives access to a virtual classroom (separate from AulaWeb), where students will find exercises with key, with the option of letting (or not letting) the instructor monitor their individual progress.

For more information and additional materials, please check the Module's AulaWeb page regularly.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Classes and homework will comprise:

- exercises for the acquisition of new grammar and vocabulary

- self-paced viewing of additional materials such as TED Talks, to be discussed in class

- mid-term assignments (communication exercises)

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Students taking this class must purchase the textbook: Elevate! B2

ISBN: 9788891909695

https://it.pearson.com/docenti/universita/lingue/elevate.html

The book will give you access to a virtual classroom with interactive resources and exercises with key.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

September 25, 2025

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Final grades will be calculated based on:

- a written test to verify their language proficiency based on grammar and vocabulary

- a few mid-term assessments

- a final interview

Holders of a First, or equivalent, certificate no older than two years are exempted from the written test

Your written test grade remains valid for a year, after which you will have to re-sit the test

Students with disabilities or learning disorders.

Students with disabilities or learning disorders are entitled specific adjustments, provided they upload the relevant certifications and documents on the University's dedicated webpage. See http://servizionline.unige.it under rubric 'Students'. The documents will be validated by the relevant office within the University (Settore servizi per l’inclusione degli studenti con disabilità e con DSA dell’Ateneo) (https://rubrica.unige.it/strutture/struttura/100111).

At least 10 days before the exam, students will have to email the instructor, Cc'ing the aforementioned office, as well as the School's deputy for matters concerning students with disabilities and learning disorders (laura.traverso@unige.it). Please specify the following in your email:

- name, surname, student number
- course name and number
- date of your exam
- adjustments required (mind maps, additional time, etc.)

Once the School's representative confirms your eligibility, you will liaise with your instructor to finalize the details. The final decision on what adjustments are acceptable rests with your instructor.

Please note that any request must be sent at least 10 days before your exam, to successfully complete the process in time. Please also note that the mind maps to be used on the day of your exam have to be significantly more concise than those you use when you study.

For further information, please see:
https://unige.it/sites/unige.it/files/2024-05/Linee%20guida%20per%20la%20richiesta%20di%20servizi%2C%20di%20strumenti%20compensativi%20e_o%20di%20misure%20dispensative%20e%20di%20ausili%20specifici%20Maggio%202024.pdf