English Proficiency

The programme is designed to assist delegates to improve their knowledge and practical use of the English language, with a focus on effective spoken and written proficiency in English as a medium used in formal business as well as academic research.

Delegates from a wide range of sectors, and those from Higher Education, across support/professional and academic staff who want to improve their practical knowledge and understanding of English, will benefit from improving their communicative language skills levels.

The programme reflects the widespread need for English to be used in education, business and commerce, throughout South Africa and in key markets throughout Africa. The programme will also support the bilingual language policy of the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Delegates will learn the practical application of English in situations that are directly relevant to their local context and that they encounter in daily life.

The motivation for offering the programme is to assist delegates to achieve an appropriate level of language proficiency in English, which can form the basis for further, more in-depth language study in English.

How you will Benefit:

• Achieve an understanding of English culture and heritage as a nation

• Improve basic English skills, including exposure to reading and
  writing in English at a proficiency level

• Read, write and understand English

• Articulate and write English words, sentences and phrases

• Listen to and understand spoken English

• Speak English, to include correct pronunciation

• Understand the heritage and development of the English language over time

Key Focus Areas:

• Introduction to English (culture, heritage, context)

• Conversational English (including themes and basic phrases)

• Reading and Writing English (including written text and pronunciation)

• Spoken English (experiential themes, to include visits to sites, famous landmarks in KZN and the opportunity to practice newly acquired skills)

Who Should Attend:

• Students at UKZN and other educational institutions

• Academic staff and professional/support staff at UKZN, to fulfil the requirements of the University Language Policy, and members of other educational institutions

• Individuals across all sectors and communities in SA who wish to improve their English language skills

Entrance Requirements:

• Basic English level (no prior learning or experience is required)

Assessment:

• Short individual oral sessions for formative evaluation, as well as group work

• Final summative, written test (assignment as homework and a written test)