Welcome to Level 7 OCS Fall 2015!

Professor Lori Rottenberg  B.A. Creative Writing  M.A. Linguistics and Teaching ESL  Taught ESL at VT and GMU  20 years as professional writer and editor, continue to publish poetry  Visiting poet for Arlington Public Schools since 2007  Acting and singing experience in paid and community theater productions

Introductions  Your name  How long have you studied English in the U.S.?  How long did you study English before that?  What do you want to do after your English studies?  Have you ever had any public speaking experience?  What do you find challenging about speaking and listening to English?

Goals of the Class  Build academic listening and note-taking skills  Build academic speaking and presentation skills  Improve academic vocabulary and grammar  Build advanced pronunciation skills

Critical Thinking   Cornerstone of American education   Based on questioning and independence of thought rather than memorization and reliance on authority   Based on being able to SUPPORT your positions and ideas   Video:

This is what you’re up against… _latest_climate_trends.html

Syllabus  Course Description  Course Objectives  Course Textbooks and Online Materials  Course Requirements  Grading  Important Dates  Course Expectations  Honor Code and Disabilities

Course Requirements  Daily in-class exercises  Weekly listening logs  Weekly online homework  Quizzes  Oral presentations (6 plus 1 SLD)  Final exam

Why This Level Is Crucial  Many of you apply to: Pathways Programs Pathways Programs Direct admission to GMU or other universities Direct admission to GMU or other universities  One of your last chances to perfect your English skills before entering academia!

Remember…  You must get at least an 80% to pass this class!  You are “auditioning” for a recommendation starting on Day 1!

How to Do Well in This Class  Come to class, on time and ready to work.  Pay attention in class, ask questions, and contribute to class discussions and small groups.  Do all your homework—yourself!  Prepare oral presentations in advance and spend lots of time practicing.  Spend time outside of class listening to and speaking English.

How to Do Poorly in This Class  Skip class or come late.  Check your phone and text during class.  Do presentations at the last minute.  Blow off on-line homework.  Goof around during small-group work.  Speak and listen to stuff only in your native language outside class—expect class to do it all for you.

I shine the flashlight to guide your way, but only YOU can walk the path. My Model for Learning… No!Yes!

Human Treasure Hunt

Homework  Buy Q Skills for Success 5—Listening and Speaking, with online component. (Make sure it’s the new second edition!)  Set up online Q account.  Start to work on first listening log.

I’m looking forward to a great semester!