English is one of the major languages in the modern world. It is considered an international language because it has more speakers than any other language. Be it from native speakers or those who take it as a second language, English has remained a significant part of modern society. And that is why many people across the world are interested. However, there is a vast difference between English studies and learning it as a second language. The latter is concerned with understanding basic terms and learning the meaning of words and pronunciation.
English Studies, on the other hand, goes deeper. And this is where we find English for Academic Purposes (EAP). Here, students are introduced to causes that provide language instructions for academic studies in American universities. It is a combination of academic study skills exposing the student to test-taking and note-taking, the use of vocabulary for educational purpose, critical thinking, reading, and writing. It makes use of comprehensive academic lectures, research and library skills, and formal composition development. Universities across the globe offer English as an academic study area to enable students to take a deeper dive into the world of grammar and literature.
English is a broad subject. There are so many sub-subjects, including linguistics, literature, are studies and other areas. But in English for academic purposes, there are specific areas that must be studied together from early years of studies through higher levels. They include language skills such as listening comprehension, fluency development, oral intelligibility, reading, grammar, and vocabulary development. And the methods of teaching areas discussed above.
To learn any language, the student must first be able to listen attentively. It is only if they can listen that they internalize the necessary skills both in beginner and advanced levels. Therefore, universities in the United States and other English Speaking countries encourage students to be good listeners first before introducing them to other areas of study.
This area of study seeks to sharpen learners in general academic vocabulary development, improved listening skills in an academic setting, development of practical note-taking, and better discussion/presentation skills. All these are important for the academic life of the leaner and their overall experience as well. For instance, even though there are not many specific openings that focus on English knowledge, there are many other career areas, including law, writing, publishing, and finance, that require proper mastery of English.
The student will be able to build these skills through practice with ESL pronunciation text and material that use authentic academic content-based lectures. Also, a student must be ready to engage in activities such as formal presentations, discussions, and reports of elementary research. There is no denying that listening is the fundamental skill required for learning any skill, and English requires the student, more than anything else, to have this skill at hand. Besides, when the student can listen, they can then learn to speak. And that is why lectures are very important. Luckily, the internet has made communication much easier today. You should be able to access all information you need to get yourself in the best study position.
From an early age, students who can listen attentively and read English sounds are introduced to reading and writing. It is all about advancing in their level of language study. And those taking English majors will also have to go back to reading and writing. Only that now they will need to look at a more advanced approach, which includes the research skills of the learner interested in taking English for their undergraduate studies.
There are many content courses that the student will be required to undertake to succeed in their pursuit. The learner outcome include academic vocabulary development for better writing and better reading and understanding of university materials. Hence, the learner will be able to handle textbook materials, short stories, magazine articles, and online materials better. This means they can become better creative writers and improve their imagination skills. They also gain better knowledge for writing essays and research papers.
In this area, both the student and the teacher should be ready to acquire necessary learning/teaching materials, which include selections from authentic authors from different regions and periods. Reading involves taking a critical look at the written works of other famous writers. These may be in the form of research papers, fiction stories, poetry, and other literary forms. Practically, the student will be required to read, understand, and present the material verbally and writing. And thus, they will have better public speaking skills, creativity for writing as well as an in-depth understanding of language. English studies may also touch a little bit on linguistic studies, helping them understand the best ways to deal with varying language needs.
Vocabulary, grammar, and all English needs required for graduate students come at an advanced level. They may include what we have discussed above by requires the student to compare a different piece of work. Listening, in this case, may consist of instructions from lectures to research on specific areas of study while preparing the learner for the outside world. It keeps in mind the fact that students are required to know what society expects of them and be ready to share what they have learned. Hence, it is not only about learning but about doing.
For advanced cause, the student can read the hidden meaning of texts in creative writing, making sure every aspect of the author is well captured. Hence they will develop the ability to read and write graduate-level texts including, summaries and definitions, essays, bibliographies, critiques, and data commentaries. Each student is required to carry deep library research on the topic of interest in the field of study.
English has many facets, all of which meet at one point or another. Hence, English for academic purposes equips the learner with reading and writing skills for their field of specialization. It may not be necessary for English, but it can also include students who have completed the course. They gain improved reading comprehension, writing proficiency, academic vocabulary, and research skills.
1029 Words
May 13, 2020
3 Pages