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851-0834-02L 2 Credits DS D-GESS

English Language, Upper Intermediate (B2)

Lecturers & Examiners: Ilse New-Fannenböck
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:19:10

Abstract

This course is suitable for students who possess the skills defined in level B2 of the Council of Europe Global Scale, and takes them towards level C1. The aim is to enhance students' oral and written competence for academic purposes.

Objective

In this course students will work towards the skills listed in level C1 of the Council of Europe Global Scale (such as understanding articles and reports about contemporary issues; writing clear, well-structured texts on subjects related to their interests; presenting information and arguments for or against a particular point of view, participating actively in discussions in which they have to justify and sustain their opinions, etc.).

Content

Topics: Our language work will embrace themes of general interest and personal relevance, such as wisdom and knowledge, art, society and history, sport, nature and aspects of time. To this end, there will be a systematic focus on grammatical accuracy (modal verbs, real and unreal tense usage, verb patterns, relative clauses and participles, linking devices, recognition and correction of typical errors, etc.), vocabulary (word-formation, metaphors and idioms, homophones, homonyms and homographs, adjective order, synonyms and antonyms), writing skills (description, reviews of films or books, entering a competition, essay writing), oral expression, discussion techniques, pronunciation and listening comprehension.

Resources

Lecture Notes

No script.

Literature

We shall continue with the course book and work book "New Headway Advanced", by Liz and John Soars, OUP. Both items will be on sale in class, at a discount, at the beginning of term.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
exercise English Language, B2
  • Thu 12:15-14:00 (HG E 33.5)
  • Thu 12:15-14:00 (HG G 26.3)
2 h weekly
exercise English Language, B2
  • Wed 15:15-17:00 (HG E 33.1)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Compulsory Electives GESS (Categorically all students at ETH Zurich are required to obtain 8 credit points (ECTS) within the frame of this elective course program throughout their studies; 6 credit points during the bachelor and 2 for the master. Some of the lectures are part of other departments’ curricula. Further information can be found in the course catalog or at the particular student offices.)