All - reminders

Hello to all of you, I hope you're having a good weekend in this spring-time sunshine that is finally appearing! Just a quick reminder of a few important points that have already been mentioned in class over the past few weeks.

As I mentioned in most groups at the start of this semester – this semester we will be focusing a little less on our grammar programme, in order to dedicate necessary time to writing, writing styles, conversation, etc. (which are all essential skills to be acquired for your end of year exam and very importantly for your English in general). As I said at the start of the semester, however, this means that you must continue working on the grammar programme a little more at home. Some grammar points (the more difficult ones) will obviously be covered in class, and some I will assign for homework – but please be certain that, in general, you continue working on the grammar programme independently too. If you have any difficulties or doubts with any of the material you study, let me know as soon as possible.

Please remember, also, that as I've been saying since semester 1, you must continue reading the short stories. They're good reading practice, an excellent source of new terminology, a taster of different English authors and helpful in giving ideas about writing too. Remember that for your oral exam you should choose at least 4 of the short stories ( you may be asked to speak about one or two of them).

The written composition is 25% of your 'written exam' grade but writing skills are obviously important in the reading comprehension too (another 25%), which is why we're giving more attention to writing this semester. Please don't overlook the importance of good writing skills – which come from practising your writing. Some people are handing in lots and lots of written assignements (that's great) but unfortunately in some cases I've seen very little of your written work – don't wait until the end of the year to start practising – using a language well is like playing a musical instrument, driving a car or playing a sport well – we need to practise constantly in order to become really good and obtain positive results. Don't forget that when you hand in written work you should also ask for it back (the corrections and comments are there to help you, not for me).

As always – if you have any doubts, suggestions, comments ...whatever – please let me know – 'I'm all ears' as we say in English! Don't leave problems until the end of the year, when it's difficult to resolve them – if in doubt, give a shout – in class, in the comments section of the blog, via e-mail, in office hours.

Okay – the final point (this post is already getting too long!) - after the poll closed and your votes were registered – we'll be meeting every Thursday this semester from 12.00 – 13.00 in room 1, CLA. All English students from the Language Faculty (whatever level) are welcome – at least until the room is full.

Have a good weekend!