GST111: Use of English I

An outline covering the core principles of English language sounds, structure, and usage.

Table of Contents

Week 1: Sound Patterns in English Language

  • Introduction to Speaking: Fundamentals of English sounds and their realization.
  • Phonetics vs. Phonology: Differentiating the study of physical sounds from the study of sound systems.
  • Vowel Sounds: Classification and description of English vowels.
  • Consonant Sounds: Various classifications of consonant sounds based on place and manner of articulation.

Week 2: The Sentence in English

  • Defining a Sentence: Understanding the basic structure and components of a complete sentence.
  • Sentence Modification: Learning how parts of a sentence can be modified.
  • Types of Sentences (Structural): Simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences.
  • Types of Sentences (Functional): Declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory sentences.

Week 3: Grammar and Usage

  • The Notion of Grammar: Understanding grammar as the set of rules governing a language.
  • Importance of Grammar: Its role in clear and effective communication.
  • Basic Grammatical Concepts: Introduction to key terms and ideas in English grammar.
  • Structure of the English Sentence: Revisiting and reinforcing the components of sentence structure.

Week 4: English Word Classes (Parts of Speech)

  • Open Word Classes: Nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs (classes that readily accept new words).
  • Closed Word Classes: Pronouns, prepositions, conjunctions, determiners (classes with limited membership).
  • Functions of Word Classes: Understanding the specific role each part of speech plays in a sentence.

Week 5: Logical and Critical Thinking

  • Introduction to Logic: The study of correct reasoning and inference.
  • Propositions: Statements that can be accepted as true or false.
  • Inference: Drawing conclusions from existing facts or propositions without direct observation.
  • Application in Communication: Using logic to build arguments and analyze the intentions of others.

Week 6: Ethical Considerations & Copyright

  • Ethics in Advanced Writing: Moral principles that guide the production and distribution of written information.
  • Plagiarism: Understanding what constitutes plagiarism and the importance of proper citation.
  • Copyright Rules: The legal rights of creators over their original works.
  • Infringements: The consequences of violating copyright and ethical standards.

Week 7: Reading Skills and Comprehension

  • SQ3R Method: Effective study through Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review.
  • Types of Reading: Differentiating between Intensive, Extensive, Skimming, and Scanning techniques.
  • Reading Challenges & Strategies: Overcoming obstacles like Sub-vocalization, Eye Regression, and Word Recognition issues.

Week 8: Writing Skills

  • Writing Process:
    • Pre-Writing: Strategies for brainstorming and outlining ideas.
    • Writing: Focusing on drafting and maintaining logical flow.
    • Post-Writing: Essential steps for editing, reviewing, and proofreading.
  • Basic Form of Written Work: Understanding the structural requirements of formal writing.

Week 9: ICT in Language Learning

  • Role of ICT: How technology enhances learning, collaboration, and accessibility in language study.
  • Types of ICT Tools: Application of Communication tools, Multimedia, Software, Online Platforms, and AI.
  • Challenges of ICT Integration: Identifying and addressing obstacles in digital language learning environments.