Most of the students who were in my class for the spring term are now part of the advanced group, while most of the new-comers will make up the beginners' group. We held the orientation together last week, and everybody had to take a small English test, to help me better appreciate their level and choose teaching materials. They could choose between the Beginners, Intermediate and High Intermediate tests; most chose the Intermediate, but we had two challengers who went for the High Intermediate level test! I am happy to say that everybody did quite well, so this week the "real" seminar will begin.
Beginners: Wednesday, 10:30-12:00
Advanced: Friday, 14:30-16:00
We also have a new type of seminar, for young professors. It all started with a suggestion from one of my colleagues during the welcome party held at the beginning of this school year. Since most of the people present then were a little envious of the chance students got to study academic English, I thought it would be a good idea to create a class for the young professors, too, where they could brush up on their skills. In this class we will focus, on the one hand, on English for academic papers and presentations, and, on the other hand, on developing the ability to teach classes in English, and advise foreign students in English. This is new for me too, and there are not so many textbooks that can guide us, but I'm sure we'll pull it through!
Young Professors/Researchers: Friday, 10:30-12:00
