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851-0835-00L 2 Credits DS D-GESS , D-INFK
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Scientific and Technical English: Fundamentals I

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. John Chester Guess
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:14:29

Abstract

STE 1 is a "Brückenkurs" in a workshop atmosphere extending school skills for information-oriented English up to the level of professional working proficiency. The student is provided with a universal framework for expressing the ideas and relations common to communication in all scientific disciplines.

Objective

To extend the student´s level of proficiency by (1) imparting a sizable general concept vocabulary that cuts across all fields of knowledge and (2) reviewing those distinctive features of grammar (syntax and morphology) that characterize information transfer. Numerous exercises are offered to achieve these goals.

Content

STE 1 is a "Brückenkurs" in a workshop atmosphere extending school skills for information-oriented English up to the level of professional working proficiency. The student is provided with a universal framework for expressing the ideas and relations common to communication in all scientific disciplines. Original material (core vocabulary thesaurus with workbook) is used, along with specific grammar exercises and up-to-date texts from scientific and technical journals. Video material on communication skills to improve fluency and accuracy of expression is integrated into the course.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Course materials will be supplied.

Literature

"Professional English in Science and Technology" 5th edition, J.G. Guess, Oldenbourg Verlag, together with Technical English: Vocabulary and Grammar, Brieger/Pohl, Summertown Publishing, both available at the Polybuchhandlung. It is necessary to have these books to participate in the first session! Other material will be given out in the first session (fee SF 10).

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
exercise Scientific and Technical English: Fundamentals I
Obligatorische Online-Einschreibung vom 20. August bis zum 7. September 2007 bei . Keine Einschreibung, keine Kursteilnahme! ETH-Einschreibung alleine genügt nicht!
  • Thu 10:15-13:00 (HG E 33.3)
  • 20.12 Date 10:15-13:00 (HG E 33.3)
2 h weekly
exercise Scientific and Technical English: Fundamentals I
Obligatorische Online-Einschreibung vom 20. August bis zum 7. September 2007 bei . Keine Eischreibung, keine Kursteilnahme! ETH-Einschreibung alleine genügt nicht!
  • Fri 14:15-17:00 (HG E 33.3)
  • 21.12 Date 14:15-17:00 (HG E 33.3)
2 h weekly

Offered In