1. Target Audience:

Our English course is designed for IOU applicants with CEFR B1 level or who scored between 11-40% in our English Placement Test and thus are not eligible for direct admission in the University’s degree programmes. The ultimate goal is to help them reach the advanced C1 level of English proficiency and gain all the linguistic skills necessary for success in the academic settings of the International Open University.

2. Course Duration

The course spans two semesters, where students will hone their productive (speaking, writing) and receptive (listening, reading) skills. Throughout this comprehensive program, participants will also elevate their vocabulary and master advanced grammar structures.

3. Key Learning Objectives

• Improve receptive and productive skills:
  • Develop strong listening and reading skills to comprehend complex texts and conversations.
  • Enhance speaking and writing abilities for effective communication.
• Become effective communicators:
  • Focus on practical language use to ensure students can express themselves confidently in various contexts.
• Become ready for academic studies:
  • Equip students with the linguistic tools necessary to succeed in academic environments.
• Expand vocabulary and acquire advanced grammar:
  • Enrich vocabulary to communicate with nuance and sophistication.
  • Master advanced grammar structures for clear and precise expression.

4. Course Structure and Topics

The course covers study modules that delve into the following subjects:
communication and cultural diversity, education, sport, lifestyle, health, food, travel, the media, work, the environment, people, society, science and technology, success and failure, time and productivity.

5. Focus

Our programme places a strong emphasis on both receptive and productive skills, ensuring a well-rounded language proficiency. Participants will engage in activities that enhance their listening and reading comprehension, as well as their speaking and writing capabilities.
Beyond language skills, the course encourages critical thinking through thought-provoking exercises. Collaboration among students is fostered through group work, promoting a dynamic and interactive learning environment.
At our English Language Centre, we prioritize imparting real-life language skills, utilising high-quality language textbooks and authentic materials. Through this approach, students gain practical language proficiency that extends beyond the classroom, preparing them for diverse real-world scenarios.

6. Teaching Methodology

• Interactive Live Sessions
Five weekly live online sessions, facilitating real-time engagement and personalized interaction.
• High-Quality Textbooks
Meticulously selected textbooks to ensure a well-rounded and top-tier educational experience.
• Multimedia Resources
Dynamic materials, including videos, podcasts, and articles to enhance the learning experience.
• Online Games
Gamified elements to make learning enjoyable and effective.
• Discussions
Platforms for collaborative learning, encouraging students to express opinions and ideas.
• Authentic Materials
Real-world materials to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application.

7. Schedule and Timings

• Five weekly online live classes held in mixed-gender groups (fourteen study weeks each semester).
• The schedule is announced at the start of the semester. Students may choose between a morning and an evening slot.
• The class hours are stated according to the Universal Time Coordinated (UTC).
• Weekly classes are conducted via Zoom with cameras turned off. However, please note that during the speaking exam later in the semester, students will be required to turn their cameras on as part of the standard assessment procedure.

8. Registration Details

• Students who have taken the English Placement Test and scored between 11-40% will be informed that they need to take the English Preparatory Programme.
• The next step is to pay the semester fees for the first semester of the course.
• Once the student pays the fee, they will be automatically enrolled in the English Preparatory Programme Semester 1.

Enrollment deadlines:

9. Assessment and Grading

We employ a comprehensive assessment system to gauge our students’ linguistic progress and ensure a deep understanding of the material.

The following are the key assessments:

• Weekly Module Tests
Regular assessments to check understanding and provide ongoing feedback.
• Final Written Semester Test in Moodle
Cumulative test on Moodle evaluating overall comprehension.
• Final Semester Oral Test
Oral assessment to measure verbal communication skills.
• Written Assignments
Tasks promoting advanced writing skills.
• Attendance
Regular participation ensures engagement and collaborative learning.

Note: Only those who secure a minimum passing grade of 50.00 in attendance, weekly module tests, written assignments, and the semester final written exam will be eligible to attend the semester oral exam. Students will be required to turn their cameras on and show their identification cards during the oral exam as part of the standard identity verification procedure.

Note: To pass the course, a student needs to score a minimum of 50% in EACH component. Failure to achieve the minimum mark in even a single component will result in failing the course.

10. Costs and Fees:

Students are charged semester fees based on the following sliding scale: