EIL4001 - A Critical Approach to Language

Leader: Farzad Sharifian and Lorraine Bullock

Offered

Not offered in 2008

Synopsis

This unit examines the concept of critical thinking in relation to academic tasks and texts. The unit covers the language required to construct reasonable, logical and appropriate arguments. Key concepts such as the difference between fact and opinion, defining the issues, organizing a logical response and evaluating claims will be covered during the course. Finally students will be given the opportunity to consider the construction of both written and oral arguments appropriate to their own further study as well as selecting the appropriate language in which to evaluate the arguments offered by writers within their own disciplines.

Objectives

Upon the successful completion of this unit, students will have developed the ability to:

1. Identify and evaluate the claims made in an academic paper,
2. Use the language of evaluation appropriate to this discourse community,
3. Understanding the concept of critical thinking as appropriate within this discourse community,
4. Distinguish the difference between reasonable and fallacious argument,
5. Form an effective argument in both written and oral contexts, and
6. Recognise what is meant by reasonable and logical language in the construction of a successful argument.

Assessment

1 hour Class Test (1000) : 25%
Critical Essay (2000) : 35%
Research Project (1000) : 25%
Oral Presentation (500) : 10%
Seminar preparation and participation 5%

Contact hours

1 two-hour seminar per week.

Prerequisites

The successful completion of an undergraduate program, An IELTS score of 6.0, where no band is less that 5.5