Certificate In General English

Course details

This programme is designed to improve the core skill areas of English Language Proficiency.  There are 3 modules, in which equal emphasis is placed in every module, on the 5 key skills of:

• Listening
• Speaking
• Reading
• Writing
• Use (Grammar)

Each module focuses on thorough knowledge of grammar and vocabulary building. Even though the course content at each level may be demanding, the teachers are supportive and encouraging of the learning needs and capabilities of each inpidual student.  Learning also becomes an enjoyable experience without the pressure of formal examinations.

The programme also benefits students preparing for the IELTS test, which is the commonly accepted measure of English language proficiency by universities worldwide.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Module 1 (IELTS 2.5 or equivalent)

To help students build a strong foundation in language proficiency with emphasis placed on spoken communication combined with reading and comprehension.

Module 2 (IELTS 2.5 – 4.5 or equivalent)

To help students achieve communication skills beyond social conversation and to communicate effectively in simple content areas.

Module 3 (IELTS 4.5 – 5.5 or equivalent)

To help students achieve effective communication skills beyond social interaction and to communicate fluently in specific content areas.

FLAME METHODOLOGY

FLAME stands for:

First Language Assimilation Method for English, developed by Dr. Robert Balhetchet based on his 40 years of experience in teaching English to foreign students.

The FLAME method is a live audio-visual approach that teaches students to learn and assimilate the English language very quickly without use of textbooks, but through an audio imitative process in a contextual situation.  It allows the learner to utilize memory recall in association with his/her own language and experience.

The adoption of this process in language learning has proved very effective because of the greater development of the learner’s mind and memory. The situational element of the approach allows the language to be expressed in a cohesive, coherent, interesting and meaningful way that makes sense to the learner.

MODE OF DELIVERY

Teachers conduct interactive lessons supported by Powerpoint slides and use the whiteboard as needed. Students are encouraged to speak, listen, read and write in each lesson and to work inpidually, with partners, or in groups to complete assignments. Students are expected to take good notes during each lesson and review those notes for homework each night.

ADMISSION CRITERIA

Applicant must be 7 years and older.

Completion of a diagnostic exam at the appropriate skill level. Those attaining higher skill levels will be allowed waiver of modules. Returning students with completed modules will be allowed to enter into the next module.

GRADUATION CRITERIA

Average of 75% or higher from 3 monthly assessment in each module.

Completion of Module 3 with assessment score of 75% or higher.

ATTENDANCE CRITERIA

All students need to attend at least 75% of classes to be eligible for a Certificate of Attendance. Student Pass holders are required to maintain an attendance of 90% and above to meet the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority requirement.

ASSESSMENT / EXAMINATION

Monthly assessments are conducted to measure the student’s competency in Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening and Usage.