1. English Reading and Writing An Intercultural Classroom Dr. Peih-ying Lu Fall 2009

2. Introduction This course aims to enhance freshman English reading and writing abilities. We will use social issues as the framework for critical thinking, and offer opportunities to let students express their ideas in English. We will have lecture, group discussion, and invited speeches in class. After class, students are required to join Intercultural Reading group to exchange ideas with students from UK and Argentina.

3. Each group has to give two oral presentations in class and submits papers Internet learning resources play a crucial role in this course. Students are asked to register in the course website, and also the website of Intercultural Reading group.

4. Intercultural Reading group is formed by students of this course and Glasgow School of Arts. Students from different countries will read the same materials and then share ideas on the website.

5. By the discussions of the articles, students could practice writing skills and get to know different ideas from different cultures. From the intercultural discussions, we wish to promote student’s English skills and develop their critical thinking.

6. Course Website http://peyilu.dlearn.kmu.edu.tw/e-read/

7. Forum and Intercultural Reading Group http://irgroup.freeforums.org/ 1. Break the Ice: Please introduce yourself here. 2. Reading Materials: you could download the reading materials here. 3. Share your Ideas: Share your opinion about the article here. Please register as well (the same id with the course website)

8. Moodle http://arts. moodle. gla.ac.uk/

9. Assignment Personal essay：Choose one topic from the four thematic concerns of this course and write personal essay ( you have to hand in 2 essays this semester) Group report：oral presentation, papers are required as well. In-class discussion：the instructor will design the questions.

10. Assessment Midterm Exam 25% Final Exam30% Participation, group report and assignments.