400-100 English for Academic Purposes A

An IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent

This subject consists of four units of study: Introduction to Living and Studying in Australia, Thinking and Learning, Academic Communication, and Information Technology. It will also include introductory IELTS preparation.

Introduction to Living and Studying in Australia: This unit deals with the physical, emotional and psychological needs of international students living in Australia. It includes linguistic and cultural knowledge and skills needed to make and maintain social relations. The subject also develops an awareness of the concepts of knowledge and types of learning which are valued in Australian academic cultures. It then encourages students to reflect on the new skills, knowledge and attitudes they will need to participate effectively in learning cultures.

Thinking and Learning: Introduces students to language and study skills relevant to the Australian university environment, specifically the Engineering Faculty. Students will develop critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving techniques, note-taking and organisational skills; using resources and working collaboratively.

Academic Communication: Develops students' reading, writing, speaking, listening and cultural skills, as required to participate in an academic environment. Learning tasks will introduce students to research assignments and report-writing skills at a level of complexity and independence required for entry into 400-101 English for Academic Purposes B.

Information Technology: This covers learning about and using information technology. Students will be introduced to word processing packages that will enable them to carry out written assignments.

IELTS Preparation: Allows students to apply the academic skills learned in the course to the IELTS test format. Test-taking skills and practice tests are included.

Assessment will be cumulative and will reflect the learning outcomes as described in the curriculum document. Students will prepare a folio of writing genre appropriate to engineering and make two oral presentations.