Undergraduate Courses 2025-26

a) Under a policy approved by the Senate, exceptions to the general University policy stating that English is the medium of instruction will be permitted when the courses are related to the area of Chinese studies and are approved by the School of Humanities and Social Science. Courses approved to be taught in Chinese carry a [PU] or [CA] notation in the course description, which indicates the spoken language used in teaching: [PU] stands for Putonghua; and [CA] for Cantonese.

b) Courses marked with a [C] in the course description are not taught in Chinese but may require students to read materials in Chinese. Students who have difficulty reading materials in Chinese should consult the instructor concerned prior to enrolling in these courses. For undergraduate courses, alternative English reading materials may be provided.

c) Some courses may use different medium of instruction/materials, either in Chinese or English, for different sections. They will be denoted by a combination of [CA], [PU], [C] and [EN]. Students will need to check the medium of instruction/materials to be used before course enrollment.

d) Undergraduate courses marked with [BLD] or [SPO] may be offered in the mode of blended learning or self-paced online delivery respectively, subject to different offerings. Students should check the delivery mode of the class section before registration.

• LANG 1006

  The Art of Public Speaking

  3 Credit(s)
  Medium of Instruction

  [EN] Taught in Eng/Chin subject to diff. offerings
  [PU] Putonghua
  [CA] Cantonese

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This introductory course in public speaking is delivered in two complementary stages. The first, presented in a blended learning environment, will help students to understand some basic terms, concepts and theories applicable to the art of public speaking. The second part of the course consists of small-class face to face tutorials and will have a practical focus. In this part of the course, students will be guided from the theoretical introduction to the practical work of composing and delivering two public speeches. The first speech will be of a knowledge sharing character and the second, longer, speech will be a persuasive public speech. The medium of instruction of the first part of the course will be English, and for the second part of the course, Cantonese, English or Putonghua will be used, depending on the target language chosen by students. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe basic terms, concepts and theories related to public speaking
  • 2.
    Analyse the situation, audience and effectiveness of public speech
  • 3.
    Speak in public with confidence, using appropriate and engaging language
  • 4.
    Speak in public using appropriate rhetorical knowledge to underpin their speech
  • 5.
    Use public speech to convey information
  • 6.
    Use public speech to seek to persuade listeners of the speaker's case
• LANG 1117

  Advanced Chinese Communication

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 4 or above in HKDSE Chinese

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1416, LANG 1423, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course seeks to advance the Putonghua speaking and Chinese writing abilities of local Hong Kong students who have attained a reasonably high standard in Chinese language on leaving secondary schools. The course materials and learning tasks help students to engage in rigorous intellectual analysis of academic and socio-economic issues and formulate coherent arguments for Putonghua speaking and Chinese writing in demanding situations such as participation in public fora and writing critical essays for publication in the media.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Assimilate information through listening and reading and subsequently present views and arguments in spoken and written form
  • 2.
    Speak Putonghua fluently and accurately and can interact effectively with others in a range of communicative tasks
  • 3.
    Become aware of the rhetorical demands of various genres and demonstrate the ability to write summaries, commentaries and reports in accurate Standard Written Chinese
  • 4.
    Engage in group activities with sensitivity shown to language appropriateness, group dynamics and teamwork
• LANG 1130

  Cantonese for Non-Chinese Language Background Students I

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  This course is restricted to students with non-Chinese language backgrounds who are beginners in the learning of Cantonese. It equips students with Cantonese communicative competence necessary for living and net-working in Hong Kong, thus facilitating their smooth integration into the local community. The learning activities involve developing students' listening and speaking skills in an attempt to build learners' confidence and fluency in using Cantonese for daily communication.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Acquire knowledge of the Cantonese phonological and tonal systems
  • 2.
    Demonstrate interest in and appreciation of Cantonese culture, and show cross-cultural awareness
  • 3.
    Achieve basic communicative tasks in listening and speaking on the topics or conversations closely related to personal and school contexts for daily and social interactions.
  • 4.
    Understand basic Cantonese grammar for effective oral communication.
  • 5.
    Use a range of Cantonese vocabulary and simple colloquial expressions appropriately.
  • 6.
    Identify, evaluate, select, critique, integrate, and cite relevant information from culture-related sources to complete the cultural research report.
  • 7.
    Develop ideas clearly and fully.
  • 8.
    Organize ideas coherently, ensuring logical flow and focused development from sentence to text level.
• LANG 1133

  Cantonese for Chinese Language Background Students I

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  This course is restricted to students with Chinese language backgrounds who are beginners in the learning of Cantonese. It equips students with Cantonese communicative competence necessary for living and net-working in Hong Kong, thus facilitating their smooth integration into the local community. The learning activities involve developing students' listening and speaking skills in an attempt to build learners' confidence and fluency in using Cantonese for daily communication.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Acquire knowledge of the Cantonese phonological and tonal systems
  • 2.
    Demonstrate interest in and appreciation of Cantonese culture, and show cross-cultural awareness
  • 3.
    Achieve basic communicative tasks in listening and speaking on the topics or conversations closely related to personal and school contexts for daily and social interactions.
  • 4.
    Understand basic Cantonese grammar for effective oral communication.
  • 5.
    Recognize differences between Cantonese and Putonghua in lexical and syntactic choice.
  • 6.
    Identify, evaluate, select, critique, integrate, and cite relevant information from culture-related sources to complete the cultural research report.
  • 7.
    Develop ideas clearly and fully.
  • 8.
    Organize ideas coherently, ensuring logical flow and focused development from sentence to text level.
• LANG 1210

  Japanese Language and Culture for Beginners I

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1211, LANG 1212

  Description

  This 3-credit introductory course is designed for students with no prior knowledge of Japanese. It builds foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while introducing essential vocabulary, grammar, and cultural concepts for basic communication. Over 13 weeks, students will learn to introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions, describe daily routines, and participate in short conversations. The course also explores key aspects of Japanese culture, including greetings, social customs, and the appropriate use of language in formal and informal settings. Alternatively, students may opt for a flexible 8-week learning pathway that combines face-to-face sessions with online self-learning by taking LANG1211 Communicative Japanese for Beginners I (2 credits), which focuses on practical communication skills, and LANG1212 Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials I (1 credit), an online module that allows students to study vocabulary and grammar at their own pace.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Engage in Basic Conversations: Participate in basic Japanese conversations, including greetings, self-introductions, and asking and answering questions about names, nationalities, and daily activities.
  • 2.
    Describe Locations and Ownership: Describe locations, affiliations, ownership, and the existence of people, animals, and objects using appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures, including movement and transportation.
  • 3.
    Express Preferences and Opinions: Express preferences, opinions, and reasons using adjectives and appropriate grammatical structures.
  • 4.
    Recognize and Interpret Language: Recognize and interpret basic Japanese vocabulary, grammar, and writing systems in daily communication.
  • 5.
    Understand Japanese Culture: Demonstrate an understanding of Japanese culture and social norms.
• LANG 1211

  Communicative Japanese for Beginners I

  2 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1210

  Description

  This 2-credit course is designed for students who are just beginning their journey in Japanese and want to develop practical communication skills through face-to-face instruction and practice. Over eight weeks, students will engage in interactive speaking and listening activities in class, focusing on essential conversational skills such as greetings, self-introductions, and asking and answering questions. Through practical exercises and authentic interactions, learners will gain confidence in using Japanese in real-life situations while deepening their understanding and appreciation of the Japanese language and culture. Students interested in strengthening their foundation in beginner-level vocabulary and grammar are encouraged to also enrol in the 1-credit self-paced online course, LANG1212: Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials I. This supplementary course offers comprehensive explanations of key grammatical structures and extended vocabulary practices, featuring online lectures and interactive exercises designed to reinforce learning over eight weeks. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate basic Japanese conversational skills, including greetings, self-introductions, and asking and answering questions about names, nationalities, and daily activities.
  • 2.
    Describe locations, affiliations, ownership, movement, transportation, and the existence of people, animals, and objects using appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures.
  • 3.
    Express preferences, opinions, and reasons, discuss past events, and make comparisons using appropriate adjectives and grammatical structures.
  • 4.
    Recognize and interpret basic Japanese vocabulary, grammar, and writing systems in daily communication.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate an understanding of Japanese culture and social norms.
• LANG 1212

  Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials I

  1 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1210

  Mode of Delivery

  [SPO] Self-paced online delivery

  Description

  This 1-credit self-paced online course is designed for students beginning their journey in Japanese, with a focus on building a solid and comprehensive foundation in vocabulary and grammar structures. Over eight weeks, students will explore the fundamentals of the Japanese writing and sound system while deepening their understanding of beginner-level grammar and vocabulary. The flexible format allows students to progress at their own pace through engaging video lectures, interactive chatbot exercises, online quizzes, and a final in-person exam. By the end of the course, students will not only gain a strong grasp of Japanese sentence structures and essential grammar rules but also develop a robust vocabulary that enables them to construct simple sentences, understand basic texts, and engage in elementary-level communication with confidence. Students are encouraged to also enrol in the 2-credit LANG 1211: Communicative Japanese for Beginners I to reinforce their learning through face-to-face conversational practice and real-life scenarios. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental Japanese writing system and basic pronunciation rules.
  • 2.
    Identify and recall essential vocabulary needed for basic communication in Japanese, including common nouns, verbs, adjectives, and expressions.
  • 3.
    Explain and apply basic Japanese grammar structures, such as sentence formation, verb conjugations, and particle usage.
  • 4.
    Interpret and comprehend simple Japanese texts, including short passages and dialogues.
  • 5.
    Construct simple sentences and short paragraphs in Japanese.
• LANG 1310

  French: World Language and Culture

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  This is a course for learners with no previous knowledge of French. It aims to promote an international perspective by helping them acquire the basics of French. By the end of the course, students will be able to communicate appropriately in French on a variety of everyday topics, and have an overview of certain themes in French and Francophone culture which will enhance their knowledge of Europe and the world.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate a basic understanding of the French language, including essential vocabulary, fundamental grammar, and accurate pronunciation for everyday communication.
  • 2.
    Engage in simple conversations by making and responding to common enquiries, giving opinions, and understanding routine instructions and notices in French.
  • 3.
    Comprehend and produce short messages related to daily life, personal interests, and social situations in a French-speaking context.
  • 4.
    Apply fundamental principles of French pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary to construct accurate and meaningful sentences.
  • 5.
    Develop an awareness and appreciation of French and Francophone cultures, including customs, daily life, and cultural practices.
• LANG 1330

  Spanish and the Other America

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  This is a course for learners with no previous knowledge of Spanish. It aims to offer students a foundation in Spanish language and related culture, with an emphasis on practical oral communication. It presents aspects of essential Spanish and Latin American cultures, the flamenco to the salsa, from the temples of the Incas to the architecture of Gaudi. By the end of the course, students will be able to communicate appropriately in Spanish on a variety of everyday topics.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand the basic features of Spanish and aspects of Hispanic cultures.
  • 2.
    Demonstrate confidence in interacting with Spanish speakers and understanding simple spoken and written Spanish in daily situations.
  • 3.
    Understand everyday instructions, notices, and conversational enquiries commonly encountered in Spanish-speaking environments.
  • 4.
    Apply conversational skills to ask and respond to common questions and express straightforward opinions.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate sufficiently accurate pronunciation and intonation in Spanish to be understood by native speakers.
  • 6.
    Understand simple messages related to people’s lives, routines, and interests.
  • 7.
    Produce basic spoken and written messages about familiar topics.
  • 8.
    Apply basic vocabulary and fundamental grammar principles to construct simple, meaningful sentences.
• LANG 1402

  English for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1402

  Prerequisite(s)

  (Level 3 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above level 3) OR (Level 4 in HKDSE English Language) OR (Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with some papers but not all at or above level 4) OR (Overall bandscore of 6.0 in IELTS) OR (Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with some but not all subscores at or above 6.0) OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1401 (prior to 2024-25), LANG 1403, LANG 1404

  Description

  This course aims for students in their first year of study and will develop students’ spoken and written language proficiency. The course also introduces academic literacy skills common to all disciplines. Students will learn to evaluate others’ opinions, develop strong arguments and communicate those arguments effectively in written and spoken English. In addition to traditional academic writing, the course includes elements of academic communication that go beyond the text level to incorporate academic communication that includes text and audio. They will also build skills and habits for self-directed learning at university.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate range and variety of language appropriate for the audience, context and purpose for spoken and written contexts
  • 2.
    Express complex ideas precisely with range and complexity in vocabulary and sentence structures; and develop clear pronunciation
  • 3.
    Support and organise logical ideas into strong arguments in speaking and writing
  • 4.
    Identify and use strategies to interact with others’ ideas to contribute and communicate in group contexts
  • 5.
    Analyse different audiences for different purposes, and apply strategies to inform, interest, and persuade an audience
  • 6.
    Critique ideas, analyse problems, and evaluate solutions in speaking and writing
  • 7.
    Find, evaluate and use appropriate sources, and paraphrase those sources effectively
  • 8.
    Apply learning strategies in self and peer assessment to become an effective learner, including goal setting, evaluating learning strategies and resources, and self-reflection
• LANG 1403

  Academic English for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1403

  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1401 (prior to 2024-25) OR LANG 1402 OR Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above level 4 OR Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with all subscores at or above 6.0 OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course emphasises the development of academic literacy skills, in addition to developing students’ language proficiency.Students will learn how to find and evaluate sources for academic tasks and will further develop their abilities to be critical in reading and writing, to synthesise ideas and to develop coherent arguments. Collaboration and leadership skills will also be emphasised to further develop skills and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    In spoken, written and multimodal academic contexts, identify and apply language appropriate for different audiences, contexts, and purposes
  • 2.
    In spoken, written and multimodal academic contexts, express complex ideas precisely with range and complexity in vocabulary and sentence structures
  • 3.
    In speaking, writing and multimodal communication, substantiate and organize logical ideas into strong arguments
  • 4.
    In speaking, writing and multimodal communication, consider multiple perspectives to inform, interest, and persuade an audience
  • 5.
    Demonstrate abilities and a range of strategies to communicate and contribute effectively in individual and group contexts
  • 6.
    Develop academic literacy skills through finding, evaluating and using appropriate academic sources and citations to support arguments; synthesize ideas from multiple sources to build an argument; and paraphrase and summarize sources effectively
  • 7.
    With self-reflection in individual and group settings, apply learning strategies including goal setting, learning strategies, and resources to become an effective learner; demonstrate the ability to transfer and adapt these skills to other contexts
• LANG 1404

  Advanced Academic English for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1404

  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 5* or above in HKDSE English Language OR Overall bandscore of 7.0 or above in IELTS OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course puts a strong emphasis on developing university-level academic literacy and communication competence in writing, speaking, and multimodal contexts. The course introduces students to research skills using university library resources for finding and evaluating sources for academic writing and speaking tasks. It expects students to be critical readers and writers, synthesizing ideas when developing a coherent argument. The course also aims to develop students’ competence in communicating effectively in an academic community, developing the ability to collaborate both as a member of a group and assuming responsibility as a discussion facilitator in the context of student-led seminars. Throughout the course, students are expected to transfer and adapt their knowledge, attitudes and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    In spoken, written, and multimodal academic contexts, analyze language and rhetorical strategies appropriate for different audiences, contexts, purposes, and genres
  • 2.
    In spoken, written, and multimodal academic communication, construct strong arguments and effectively integrate a range of rhetorical strategies
  • 3.
    Demonstrate abilities and a range of strategies to communicate, contribute, and collaborate effectively in individual and group contexts in academic settings and student-led seminars
  • 4.
    Develop academic literacy skills through finding, evaluating and using appropriate academic sources and citations; effectively synthesize ideas from multiple sources; and paraphrase and summarize sources effectively
  • 5.
    With self-reflection in individual and group settings, apply learning strategies including goal setting, learning strategies, and resources to become effective lifelong learner; demonstrate the ability to transfer and adapt these skills and knowledge to other contexts
• LANG 1405

  Mediated Me: An Introduction to Digital Literacy

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1405, LANG 1004

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This introductory course will help students explore the impact of digital media texts (such as podcasts, memes, and social media like YouTube) on academic, professional and social communication practices. The course will enable students to be: critical of current digital communication practices; reflective of their communication and participation through digital media; aware of how digital communication can impact language delivery; and reflective of their English language development. To achieve this, the course guides students in developing basic knowledge of digital literacy theories and practices and to produce their own digital media texts for English communicative purposes. Students will undertake authentic tasks related to their academic and future careers that enables them to achieve the necessary communication skills in a digital world.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe basic terms, concepts and theories related to digital literacies
  • 2.
    Identify possibilities and constraints of communicating through digital media texts
  • 3.
    Analyze and evaluate current digital communication practices within academic and professional contexts
  • 4.
    Use digital tools, such as video editing, audio creation and editing, and memes, for English communicative purposes across disciplines
  • 5.
    Produce digital artefacts (text, audio and video) in English to communicate ideas for academic and professional purposes
• LANG 1406

  Academic English for Business Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1402 OR Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above Level 4 OR Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with all subscores at or above 6.0 OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1403, LANG 1404, LANG 1407, LANG 1408, LANG 1409

  Description

  This course puts a strong emphasis on the academic literacy skills essential for business studies. The course introduces students to the research skills for finding and evaluating sources for discipline-related writing and speaking tasks. Students are expected to be critical readers and writers, synthesizing ideas from different sources when developing a coherent argument. The course also aims to develop students' competence in communicating effectively in a wider community beyond the university, developing the ability to collaborate both as a member and leader of a group. Throughout the course, students are expected to transfer and adapt their knowledge, attitudes and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify, evaluate, select, critique, integrate, and cite relevant information from business-related sources to provide evidence-based arguments
  • 2.
    Develop ideas clearly and fully
  • 3.
    Organize ideas coherently, ensuring logical flow and focused development from sentence to text level
  • 4.
    Use written and spoken language that is accurate, fluent, and contextually appropriate in business communication
  • 5.
    Demonstrate awareness of audience and reader needs and expectations and communicate with them appropriately
  • 6.
    Use different modes of communication appropriately to strengthen message delivery
  • 7.
    Work collaboratively in a team to achieve common goals
  • 8.
    Demonstrate effective learning skills by using appropriate learning strategies and evaluating progress through reflection and feedback
• LANG 1407

  Academic English for Engineering Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1402 OR Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above Level 4 OR Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with all subscores at or above 6.0 OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1403, LANG 1404, LANG 1406, LANG 1408, LANG 1409

  Description

  This course puts a strong emphasis on the academic literacy skills essential for engineering studies. The course introduces students to the research skills for finding and evaluating sources for discipline-related writing and speaking tasks. Students are expected to be critical readers and writers, synthesizing ideas from different sources when developing a coherent argument. The course also aims to develop students' competence in communicating effectively in a wider community beyond the university, developing the ability to collaborate both as a member and leader of a group. Throughout the course, students are expected to transfer and adapt their knowledge, attitudes and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify, evaluate, select, critique, integrate, and cite relevant information from engineering-related sources to provide evidence-based arguments
  • 2.
    Develop ideas clearly and fully
  • 3.
    Organize ideas coherently, ensuring logical flow and focused development from sentence to text level
  • 4.
    Use written and spoken language that is accurate, fluent, and contextually appropriate in engineering communication
  • 5.
    Demonstrate awareness of audience and reader needs and expectations and communicate with them appropriately
  • 6.
    Use different modes of communication appropriately to strengthen message delivery
  • 7.
    Work collaboratively in a team to achieve common goals
  • 8.
    Demonstrate effective learning skills by using appropriate learning strategies and evaluating progress through reflection and feedback
• LANG 1408

  Academic English for Humanities and Social Science Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1402 OR Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above Level 4 OR Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with all subscores at or above 6.0 OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1403, LANG 1404, LANG 1406, LANG 1407, LANG 1409

  Description

  This course puts a strong emphasis on the academic literacy skills essential for humanities and social science studies. The course introduces students to the research skills for finding and evaluating sources for discipline-related writing and speaking tasks. Students are expected to be critical readers and writers, synthesizing ideas from different sources when developing a coherent argument. The course also aims to develop students' competence in communicating effectively in a wider community beyond the university, developing the ability to collaborate both as a member and leader of a group. Throughout the course, students are expected to transfer and adapt their knowledge, attitudes and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify, evaluate, select, critique, integrate, and cite relevant information from humanities or social science sources to provide evidence-based arguments
  • 2.
    Develop ideas clearly and fully
  • 3.
    Organize ideas coherently, ensuring logical flow and focused development from sentence to text level
  • 4.
    Use written and spoken language that is accurate, fluent, and contextually appropriate in humanities or social science communication
  • 5.
    Demonstrate awareness of audience and reader needs and expectations and communicate with them appropriately
  • 6.
    Use different modes of communication appropriately to strengthen message delivery
  • 7.
    Work collaboratively in a team to achieve common goals
  • 8.
    Demonstrate effective learning skills by using appropriate learning strategies and evaluating progress through reflection and feedback
• LANG 1409

  Academic English for Science Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1402 OR Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above Level 4 OR Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with all subscores at or above 6.0 OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1403, LANG 1404, LANG 1406, LANG 1407, LANG 1408

  Description

  This course puts a strong emphasis on the academic literacy skills essential for science studies. The course introduces students to the research skills for finding and evaluating sources for discipline-related writing and speaking tasks. Students are expected to be critical readers and writers, synthesizing ideas from different sources when developing a coherent argument. The course also aims to develop students' competence in communicating effectively in a wider community beyond the university, developing the ability to collaborate both as a member and leader of a group. Throughout the course, students are expected to transfer and adapt their knowledge, attitudes and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify, evaluate, select, critique, integrate, and cite relevant information from science-related sources to provide evidence-based arguments
  • 2.
    Develop ideas clearly and fully
  • 3.
    Organize ideas coherently, ensuring logical flow and focused development from sentence to text level
  • 4.
    Use written and spoken language that is accurate, fluent, and contextually appropriate in science communication
  • 5.
    Demonstrate awareness of audience and reader needs and expectations and communicate with them appropriately
  • 6.
    Use different modes of communication appropriately to strengthen message delivery
  • 7.
    Work collaboratively in a team to achieve common goals
  • 8.
    Demonstrate effective learning skills by using appropriate learning strategies and evaluating progress through reflection and feedback
• LANG 1411

  Elementary Putonghua for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1411

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1415, LANG 1416, LANG 1421, LANG 1422, LANG 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for less than 50 tuition hours. It aims to equip the students with listening and speaking skills for communicating in Putonghua for daily and social purposes through a range of learning activities. After successfully completing the course, students will have developed basic pronunciation ability in Putonghua, and fundamental listening and speaking skills necessary for daily communication.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand simple Chinese sentences and everyday conversations
  • 2.
    Participate in simple conversations closely related to personal and school contexts for daily and social interactions
  • 3.
    Pronounce words clearly and accurately
  • 4.
    Use simple Chinese words and expressions in daily communication
  • 5.
    Master basic Chinese grammar and demonstrate this in everyday conversations
  • 6.
    Understand some elements of Chinese culture
• LANG 1412

  Intermediate Putonghua for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1412

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1413, LANG 1416, LANG 1421, LANG 1422, LANG 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for up to 150 tuition hours. It prepares students for an intermediate-level understanding of spoken Chinese and equip them with a strong communicative competence in using Chinese in social and professional situations. After successfully completing the course, students’ listening and speaking skills will be enhanced, and they will be able to participate in complete, coherent and appropriate conversations on topics relating to daily life, study and work.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand complex grammatical structures and sentence patterns, such as compound sentences, complements of time and action, co-verbal structures and rhetorical devices in spoken discourse
  • 2.
    Conduct conversations relating to school, social and working environments for social and professional purposes
  • 3.
    Use appropriate words, phrases, expressions and grammatically correct sentences for daily and social interactions
  • 4.
    Pronounce and produce words, sentences and discourse with accuracy and natural intonation
  • 5.
    Demonstrate an understanding of Chinese culture and the awareness of cultural diversity
  • 6.
    Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and effectively in group activities
• LANG 1413

  Advanced Putonghua for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1413

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1416, LANG 1421, LANG 1422, LANG 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for up to 300 tuition hours. It prepares students for an advanced-level understanding of spoken Chinese and to equip them with a strong communicative competence in using Chinese in social and professional situations. After successfully completing the course, their listening and speaking skills will be enhanced, and they will be able to handle a wide range of discourse with nearly full linguistic control and communicate effectively on complex topics relating to life, study and work.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand complicated conversations or speeches involving formal and informal topics, understand the true intentions of the speaker accurately, and the culture involved in the conversation or speech factor
  • 2.
    Use appropriate words and complex sentence patterns to talk, describe events and scenes in detail, conduct fluent discussions and simple negotiations, express personal opinions fully and thoughts precisely
  • 3.
    Analyze the structure of language materials, accurately understand the content, extract the main arguments and information, guess the meaning of words, infer hidden meaning through the context, and understand the cultural factors involved
  • 4.
    Identify relevant sources or information, analyze and critically synthesize information from sources, and evaluate the quality of information and sources and provide evidence-based arguments
  • 5.
    Show understanding of the importance of cross-cultural awareness
  • 6.
    Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and effectively in teams
• LANG 1414

  Elementary Reading and Writing for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1414

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1415, LANG 1416, LANG 1421, LANG 1422, LANG 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for less than 50 tuition hours.It aims to equip students with Chinese reading and writing skills for daily and social purposes through a range of familiar topics. After successfully completing the course, students will have acquired a basic knowledge of Chinese characters, be able to identify information from simple passages,and write basic sentences to introduce themselves and describe their daily lives.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Acquire basic knowledge of Chinese characters (including the basic stroke, stroke order and the basic radicals)
  • 2.
    Recognize characters and write the most commonly used Chinese characters, and input Chinese characters with the help of Chinese computer applications
  • 3.
    Understand specific information from introductory and narrative texts related to daily and social contexts
  • 4.
    Use simple sentences to introduce basic information closely related to personal life and study
  • 5.
    Demonstrate awareness of Chinese Culture
• LANG 1415

  Intermediate Reading and Writing for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1415

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1416, LANG 1421, LANG 1422, LANG 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for students with non-Chinese language background who have learned Chinese for less than 100 tuition hours. It aims to enhance students’ ability to recognize and write Chinese characters, and to help develop their understanding of written Chinese and writing competence in using Chinese in daily life and social situations. After successfully completing the course, they will be able to recognize and write commonly used Chinese characters, understand narrative, expository and basic argumentative texts, and write short passages for daily life and social purposes.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize and write commonly used characters
  • 2.
    Understand information from narrative, expository and basic argumentative texts
  • 3.
    Compose grammatically correct sentences in standard written Chinese
  • 4.
    Write short narrative or practical essays for daily life and social purposes
  • 5.
    Demonstrate an understanding of Chinese culture and the awareness of cultural diversity
  • 6.
    Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and effectively in pair activities
• LANG 1416

  Effective Chinese Communication

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1416, LANG 1113

  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 3 in HKDSE Chinese

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1421, LANG 1422, LANG 1423, LANG 1424

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese
  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course seeks to enhance the market competitiveness of HKUST graduates by making them effective users of spoken Putonghua and Standard Written Chinese in meeting communicative needs in academic, social and professional contexts. The course materials and activities help students acquire fluency and accuracy in the use of Chinese by engaging them in authentic communication tasks based on real-life situations and needs. Students’ mastery of Putonghua phonology and Chinese syntax and lexis will also be enhanced through in-class teaching and outside class practice.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Present a clear introduction of a specific topic based on an analysis of the audience, guided by an appropriate communication strategy
  • 2.
    Turn tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge, reflect, act upon reflection and express in Standard Written Chinese precisely
  • 3.
    Find, evaluate and use appropriate sources to formulate arguments in speaking through interaction with others, to contribute and communicate in group contexts
  • 4.
    Consolidate arguments in writing, with critical review of ideas and problem framing
  • 5.
    Engage in group activities with sensitivity shown to group dynamics and teamwork
  • 6.
    Identify different styles of language use
• LANG 1421

  Chinese Communication in the Digital Era

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1421

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1411, LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1414, LANG 1415, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course targets all students who have a background in Chinese, and with a strong interest in the use of Chinese in digital media. The focus of this course is to lead students to explore the characteristics of using Chinese in digital media for social, professional and academic communication purposes, and to develop their Putonghua speaking and Standard Chinese writing abilities through digital media platforms. The emphasis is on using Chinese to talk about digital media. Students can also have a deeper understanding of the current situation and developmental direction of Chinese digital media in the digital age, and be able to discuss topics in this field in Chinese.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Critically analyze information obtained from worldwide sources of Chinese digital media
  • 2.
    Propose and promote digital media-based innovative communication activities using multimodal approaches
  • 3.
    Speak on digital media platforms in clear and accurate Putonghua by making full use of sophisticated speaking skills and body language
  • 4.
    Communicate ideas through digital media by using effective and appropriate Standard Written Chinese
• LANG 1422

  Chinese for Workplace Applications

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1422

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1411, LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1414, LANG 1415, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course is for students who have a background in Chinese. It aims to enhance their Chinese communication skills in workplace contexts. It also helps students to understand how language plays a crucial role in various workplace situations including self-branding, internal and external communication. Students will explore how to choose and use communicative strategies appropriate to the professional purposes, audiences, and contexts. The course will highlight the differences between the use of English and Chinese in workplace contexts, different Chinese language styles in various working regions and the culture behind the language. Students will acquire communication skills through interactive tasks, case analyses, simulated practices.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Articulate essential principles and practical varieties of writing for workplace applications
  • 2.
    Distinguish between major situations of workplace communication and their essential features
  • 3.
    Analyze common aspects of Chinese language use with reference to internal and external workplace communications
  • 4.
    Apply appropriate Chinese writing and presentation skills according to professional needs and relevant genres of workplace communications
  • 5.
    Construct a systematic portfolio with communicative tasks and genres applicable to specific career challenges
• LANG 1423

  Chinese Communication in Global Context

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1423, LANG 1118

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1411, LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1414, LANG 1415, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course seeks to enhance the Putonghua speaking and Chinese writing abilities of students who have typically undergone schooling in a Chinese language community. Learning tasks and activities on this course further challenges students to aim at very high levels in terms of precision of expression in writing and expressiveness and persuasiveness in speaking. The learning experience will also sharpen the students’ awareness of style and tone and context of situation.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Analyze critically and assimilate information from different sources for generating insights and stand-points for commenting on related issues
  • 2.
    Compose coherent texts based on clear propositions and supported by strong, relevant evidence
  • 3.
    Critique current issues with clear and effective presentation of views and awareness of appropriate tone and register in Standard Written Chinese
  • 4.
    Deliver speeches which contain coherent and convincing arguments in clearly articulated Putonghua
  • 5.
    Participate actively in forum discussion and interact with other participants in sophisticated spoken language appropriate to the occasion
• LANG 1424

  Chinese Writing in Cultural Contexts

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1411, LANG 1412, LANG 1413, LANG 1414, LANG 1415, LANG 1120 - 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese
  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course targets all students who have a background in Chinese, and with a strong interest in the study of Chinese writing and cultural issues. It aims to cultivate students’ logical expression skills in Chinese in the context of investigative study of culture. Students will learn how to describe cultural phenomena, summarize literature, and evaluate claims from a critical perspective. Students will also learn to construct arguments and support claims effectively in an academic style. The course integrates the three elements of communication skills, academic literacy, and culture with a focus on Chinese writing training. The emphasis is on using Chinese to examine and discuss various cultural issues such as language culture. Students can have a deeper understanding of selected cultural issues and be able to discuss relevant topics in Chinese writing.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Select accurate and appropriate vocabulary, grammar, style, and format for an academic audience
  • 2.
    Articulate ideas clearly and fully and organize ideas coherently from sentence to text level
  • 3.
    Analyze information and evaluate claims from a critical perspective
  • 4.
    Construct logical arguments and support claims effectively
  • 5.
    Analyze cultural and social issues and explain how they relate to one’s cultural awareness
• LANG 2010

  English for Science I

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  An English course for students of the School of Science. The course introduces students to the language and discourse of science and develops their competence in speaking and writing about scientific topics.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand how to communicate effectively in academic contexts relevant to science. They will how to identify and address the needs and concerns of both technical and non-technical audiences in speaking and writing, critically analyze science-related texts and select, summarize and synthesize information from general-interest and science-related written and spoken materials.
  • 2.
    Develop and learn how to useaccurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to science-related communication tasks, support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources, write a coherent case study report to present problems/disasters and solutions to prevent, mitigate against, prepare for, respond to and recover from the identified problems/disasters, deliver well-structured presentations to introduce the problems/disasters and to share progress of project and findings and solutions , use appropriate body language, vocal variety, fluent and natural speech in the presentation to enhance communication effectiveness.
  • 3.
    Develop teamworking skills including working effectively in a team and communicate productively with others in face-to-face / online discussions.
  • 4.
    Reflect on experiences to locate and use appropriate language materials, tools and resources in developing and maintaining life-long communication skill and to raise awareness in self-motivated learning.
• LANG 2030

  Technical Communication I

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The course provides students with a broad introduction to English within the discipline of engineering. A central aim of the course is to encourage students to analyze critically the wider social implications of engineering products and processes, through the careful examination of texts (and other media) beyond their own specific engineering field and to communicate effectively by delivering oral presentations and writing reports on topics relevant to all engineers.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Discuss and analyze general engineering issues and semi-technical topics, select, summarize, synthesize, and cite relevant and appropriate information from general to semi-technical engineering texts, and support claims with appropriate evidence.
  • 2.
    Develop well-framed ideas clearly and fully in speaking and writing by using relevant information, ideas and arguments, and organizing them coherently with appropriate structures and formatting for engineering-related communication tasks.
  • 3.
    Identify the needs and concerns of a non-technical audience and adapt communication accordingly, and use language accurately and appropriately (pronunciation, intonation, vocabulary, linguistic structures and style) in engineering-related communication tasks.
  • 4.
    Use different modes of communication (e.g., audio, written and visual/graphical) effectively, including appropriate body language during presentations and effective interaction with participants in a seminar and/or Q&A sessions.
  • 5.
    Work effectively in a team, and give constructive feedback to others for performance improvement.
  • 6.
    Evaluate the benefits and dangers of engineering technologies for society, and recognize major ethical issues and career pressure faced by engineers.
• LANG 2061

  Professional Writing for the Workplace

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404

  Exclusion(s)

  ECON 3700, LABU 2040, LABU 2060, LANG 2063

  Description

  This course offers students the language and communication skills and strategies to adapt their writing to any professional contexts. It increases student awareness of how writing creates change and convinces one to take action, and how audiences, contexts and genre call for different choices in language, organization, format and style. As students explore and analyze business genres, they learn how to shape and adapt their language skills, strategies and communication practices to meet the needs of various internal and external audiences including co-workers, supervisors, management and customers. The course also develops in students the ability to communicate in digital contexts by analyzing and producing texts including on email and social media. Students will develop a repertoire of language and communication skills and strategies and will write for various workplace needs. For all SBM programs, BIBU, MAEC, T&M-DDP, SGFN & QSA students.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Analyze workplace writing genres using communication and linguistics theories to examine how audience, purpose, and context shape language, organization, and rhetorical strategies.
  • 2.
    Apply knowledge of rhetoric and genre to design and produce professional documents that align with workplace-specific conventions, effectively achieving specific professional objectives.
  • 3.
    Organize workplace writing to ensure clarity, coherence, and alignment with professional conventions, tailoring structure to meet audience expectations and workplace objectives.
  • 4.
    Create workplace documents that responsibly incorporate generative AI and other technologies to support human input within ethical boundaries.
  • 5.
    Critically evaluate written workplace documents to assess their effectiveness and suggest improvements based on audience, context, and purpose.
  • 6.
    Collaboratively create and refine workplace communication strategies by integrating peer feedback and evaluating diverse perspectives.
• LANG 2062

  Professional Speaking for the Workplace

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404

  Exclusion(s)

  LABU 2040, LABU 2060, LANG 2064

  Description

  This course equips students with the language and communication skills and strategies to speak and present professionally in internal and external business settings. It increases student awareness of how speaking and presenting creates change and convinces one to take action. As students explore and analyze spoken genres using language and communication theories, they learn how to shape and adapt their language skills, strategies and communication practices to influence various internal and external audiences including customers, co-workers and supervisors. Students will also develop ways to express themselves in multimodal settings. The course develops in students particularly with soft skills to handle sensitive business situations and incidents including a crisis, and how to communicate interculturally in diverse settings. Students will develop a repertoire of language and communication skills and strategies to meet various workplace needs. For all SBM programs, BIBU, MAEC, T&M-DDP, SGFN & QSA students.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Analyse a variety of internal and external audience’s needs and expectations and formulate effective communication strategies to address specific purposes and contexts.
  • 2.
    Analyse and assess critically spoken business discourses, contexts, and communicative and linguistic features, using a language-based approach.
  • 3.
    Articulate ideas clearly and concisely using appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication to communicate persuasively and interact effectively with participants to achieve various communication purposes.
  • 4.
    Communicate and present evidence-based arguments, and apply different communication theories and techniques to engage with and persuade the stakeholders.
  • 5.
    Enhance presentation skills and convey meaning appropriately through multimodal communication to build rapport with various target audiences.
  • 6.
    Develop Intercultural awareness and use language of diversity and inclusion to conduct effective cross-cultural business communication.
  • 7.
    Develop collaboration and teamworking skills by integrating peer feedback and evaluating diverse perspectives.
  • 8.
    Reflect and analyse language and communicative skills and approachesin various communication scenrios to identify strenths and areas for improvement
• LANG 2063

  Writing for Workplace Success

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 2061

  Description

  This course prepares students extensively for persuasive writing in the workplace, enabling them to become effective writers and communicators in a digitally interconnected world. It provides students with a wide exposure to various workplace genres and how these are influenced by the audience, purpose and context. Students learn to write workplace texts and to develop a sensitivity to choose the most appropriate mode and medium to achieve communication goals. The course also offers students a strong linguistic and communication grounding, enabling them to critically analyze various workplace genres and develop the transferable skills and strategies needed to approach any unfamiliar texts. Using rhetorical moves, students learn to organize their writing effectively. This course emphasizes writing as a social process and writing as also team based. Students will equip themselves with strategies to give, receive and respond to feedback, and to collaborate effectively with others.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply knowledge of rhetoric and genre to write texts appropriate for workplace contexts, purposes and audiences
  • 2.
    Apply knowledge of linguistic and communicative theories to write texts appropriate for workplace contexts, purposes and audiences
  • 3.
    Organize workplace texts logically and coherently to communicate ideas
  • 4.
    Develop awareness of writing as a social process by collaborating effectively with peers in the writing process and giving and responding to constructive feedback
  • 5.
    Lead and work effectively as a team
  • 6.
    Integrate use of technologies including Gen AI with strong emphasis on ethical considerations to enhance writing practices
• LANG 2064

  Speaking for Workplace Success

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 2062

  Description

  This course enhances student awareness of how spoken communication can drive change and persuade action. By exploring and analyzing spoken genres and applying linguistic and communication theories and strategies, students learn to shape and adapt their language to influence diverse workplace audiences in multimodal settings. The course particularly focuses on developing skills in personal and corporate branding, leveraging storytelling, intercultural awareness, and rhetorical and linguistic strategies. Students will also learn to handle sensitive business situations, including crises and intercultural communication, and navigate business meetings to achieve intended goals while maintaining rapport through effective communication strategies. Through critical analysis, hands-on practice, and reflections, the course equips students with a versatile repertoire of language and communication skills, preparing them to be effective communicators and leaders in the workplace.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply knowledge of linguistic and communicative features of spoken business discourses and linguistic and communication theories to achieve communication outcomes
  • 2.
    Formulate effective communication strategies to address specific audience’s needs, contexts and purposes
  • 3.
    Interact effectively with participants when speaking to achieve transactional and relational goals
  • 4.
    Use accurate, appropriate, and fluent language (e.g., tone, style, linguistic structures, vocabulary, vocal qualities) to articulate ideas effectively and concisely
  • 5.
    Use appropriate multimodal means to enhance communication effectiveness
  • 6.
    Develop intercultural sensitivity and use language of diversity and inclusion to conduct effective cross-cultural business communication
  • 7.
    Reflect on learned communication skills, identifying strengths and weaknesses in your work and others'
  • 8.
    Lead and work effectively as a team
• LANG 2065

  Research Writing

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 3060

  Description

  This course empowers students to confidently tackle complex academic writing challenges in research project writing regardless of major. Students will understand the varied needs, purposes, expectations and contexts of their writing tasks. By exploring conventions that are discipline-specific and common across disciplines, students learn to adapt their writing effectively. The course also emphasizes taking a stance and creating strong, coherent, evidence-backed arguments. With advanced synthesis, citation strategies and rhetorical techniques, students position their ideas and solve problems critically through their writing. Exposing students to technologies particularly Gen AI tools for research and customized chatbots to guide writing, this course creates writers who are adept at integrating technologies while maintaining academic integrity. Through collaboration, reflection and the writing process, the course nurtures a community of writers who value peer feedback, self-evaluation and continuous improvement. Students embarking on their final year project will find this course highly useful.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply knowledge of rhetoric, genre and conventions generic across disciplines and specific to their field to write texts appropriate for academic contexts, purpose and audiences
  • 2.
    Critically synthesize and integrate sources using advanced citation practices
  • 3.
    Organize texts logically and coherently to communicate information and ideas by applying both common and discipline-specific conventions
  • 4.
    Apply advanced skills and strategies in writing including stance development, definition, analysis, synthesis, explanation and reporting, and control of syntax, mechanics and style
  • 5.
    Develop awareness of writing as a social process by collaborating effectively with peers in the writing process and giving constructive feedback
  • 6.
    Reflect critically on their own writing to identify areas for improvement to enhance their writing skills
  • 7.
    Adapt academic texts for public audiences to engage and persuade, including the use of multimodal means
  • 8.
    Integrate use of technologies including Gen AI with strong emphasis on ethical considerations to enhance writing practices
• LANG 2066

  Dynamic Science Communication: Engaging Audiences with Science Busking

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409

  Description

  This course aims to empower students to communicate scientific concepts in engaging and impactful ways, fostering public understanding and informed decision-making. This advanced communication course focuses on refining speaking abilities through strategies such as storytelling, audience engagement, and issue framing. A key feature of the course is science busking - using creative demonstrations and performances to bring science to life for diverse audiences. Through hands-on practice, feedback, and reflection, students will gain confidence and adaptability in various communication contexts, learning how to capture attention and simplify complex ideas effectively. Open to students from all disciplines, this course is ideal for those with a background or interest in science and a passion for making scientific concepts accessible, relevant, and exciting.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply effective communication strategies, including storytelling, creating dialogues for audience engagement, and framing scientific issues, in science busking
  • 2.
    Demonstrate an awareness of how audience, context, and purpose shape the effectiveness of popular science communication in science busking
  • 3.
    Utilize multimodality to enhance communication of scientific concepts in science busking
  • 4.
    Demonstrate effective speaking and writing skills in popular science communication to non-specialists
  • 5.
    Provide constructive feedback to peers on their popular science communication performances to support their improvement
  • 6.
    Reflect on personal learning experiences and feedback to enhance one's own science communication skills
• LANG 2067

  Digital Communication: Expressing Your Perspective in Digital Spaces

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409

  Description

  This course equips students with essential skills for effective communication on digital platforms, which are crucial for success in today’s academic, personal, and professional arenas. Students will design and share digital artifacts, such as podcasts, vlogs, and digital portfolios, and craft engaging multimodal content tailored to specific audiences. They will also reflect on the ethical implications of digital media use by analyzing authentic digital content and their social influence, including analyzing the source, purpose, and audience of the content and assessing the authenticity of the information being shared. Through engaging tasks and assessments, students will refine their online multimodal communication skills to create compelling digital identities that showcase their learning and enhance their future professional profiles.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate the ability to create engaging digital content using various multimodal elements (e.g., audio, video, text, images)
  • 2.
    Use storytelling techniques to produce digital narratives that are compelling and structured to appeal to specific audiences
  • 3.
    Critically analyze digital content, assessing its effectiveness in reaching and engaging target audiences
  • 4.
    Use audience analysis and adapt communication strategies to suit different digital platforms and audiences
  • 5.
    Identify and apply ethical considerations related to privacy, responsible sharing, and digital footprints in content creation
  • 6.
    Work collaboratively on digital communication projects, demonstrating effective teamwork and peer feedback skills
• LANG 2068

  Speaking with Impact

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409

  Description

  This course is designed to enhance students' abilities to craft and deliver compelling speeches using advanced communication strategies and technologies. By merging traditional rhetorical techniques with cutting-edge GenAI, students will learn how to formulate, practice, and deliver speeches across a variety of speaking contexts to audiences of varying sizes and demographics. Effective public speaking transcends mere linguistic skill; even native English speakers can find it challenging. Therefore, this course welcomes students of all language proficiencies and focuses on enhancing linguistic dexterity, boosting confidence, and cultivating personal attributes to maximize stage presence. Activities and assessments will challenge students to forge genuine connections with their listeners, while continuous peer feedback and self-evaluation will develop their abilities to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively. Ultimately, this course enhances spoken communication skills for academic, personal, and professional success.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Employ strategic persuasive techniques and rhetorical skills to construct compelling arguments and speeches
  • 2.
    Demonstrate awareness of audience by constructing content targeted to audience demographics and cultural considerations
  • 3.
    Apply verbal skills, including tone, pitch, and pacing, to improve speech clarity and engagement
  • 4.
    Utilize non-verbal communication skills to enhance the effectiveness of speech delivery
  • 5.
    Engage in, and reflect on peer learning to continuously improve one’s and peers’ verbal and non-verbal public speaking skills, such as vocal tone, body language and stage presence
• LANG 2070

  English Communication for Humanities and Social Science Studies I

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Restricted to students in programs offered by the School of Humanities and Social Science. The course is an integrated skills course with a special emphasis on critical reading and thinking. It develops students' ability to understand the nuances of English vocabulary and to assimilate information from different sources for analysis and commentary. The course also hones students' skills in giving effective academic presentations.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify the purpose and key information of a text, distinguish fact from opinion, discern underlying meaning and implications, critically analyse discussion to form balanced judgments, and select and extract salient information from a variety of sources for use in an academic discussion and essay.
  • 2.
    Present data and information using infographics, and use language that is accurate and appropriate in tone and style together with appropriate delivery skills for an infographic presentation.
  • 3.
    Participate in, lead, and contribute to, and summarize main issues in a roundtable discussion, and use language that is accurate and appropriate in tone and style for a roundtable discussion.
  • 4.
    Summarise, paraphrase and synthesise information from sources, structure an argument for an academic essay, use correct citation methods, and use language that is accurate and appropriate in tone and style for an academic essay.
  • 5.
    Understand and use a range of vocabulary
• LANG 2082

  Communication for Environmental Management and Technology I

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course aims to develop students’ competence in discipline-related English, specifically communicating topics in the field of Environmental Management and Technology to the general public. Throughout the course, environmental issues will be examined, and students will learn the necessary skills to be applied in weekly communicative tasks and individual spoken and written assessments. For EVMT students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Acquire a formal understanding of a range of text types relevant to the fields of environmental management and technology, including reports, technical descriptions, essays and policy papers
  • 2.
    Develop awareness of the main rhetorical features of the above genres, including description, illustration, comparison, cause/effect, definition, etc.
  • 3.
    Develop an appreciation of the history of the environment movement and the changes that have come about through it
  • 4.
    Articulate knowledge of the various environmental positions and evaluate different perspectives
  • 5.
    Produce a written academic paper on an environmental topic
  • 6.
    Prepare and deliver effective oral presentations
  • 7.
    Collaborate with peers to research group projects and present collective findings
• LANG 2083

  Communication for Environmental Management and Technology II

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2082

  Description

  This course aims to develop students’ competence in discipline-related English, specifically communicating topics in the field of Environmental Management and Technology to a business audience. Throughout the course, the importance of communication and persuasion will be examined, and students will learn the necessary skills to be applied in weekly communicative tasks, and individual and group assessments. For EVMT students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Develop an understanding of the case-based approach to studying issues related to the environment
  • 2.
    Develop awareness of the main rhetorical features of case studies
  • 3.
    Acquire the lexis required for informed discussion of environmental issues, both in terms of technology and policy
  • 4.
    Analyze and evaluate how actual environmentally-based problems have been managed
  • 5.
    Formulate and communicate, in both writing and speech, well analyzed solutions to environmental problems
  • 6.
    Make a persuasive oral presentation related to implementing solutions to environmentally-based problems
  • 7.
    Collaborate with peers to research group projects and present collective findings
• LANG 2090

  Exploring Language and Communication with Big Data

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  Language reflects the spirit of our time and exploring big data in linguistic trends can help us understand how language shapes the way we communicate in different domains of society overtime. This course investigates the role of language across various sectors such as business, science, health, and media through Corpus Linguistics, the study of language that involves analysis of large sets of real-life language data. Students will develop expertise in using tools to analyse language data to identify language patterns and observe their applications in daily communication. Through the study of existing language corpora and the development of their own databases, students will deepen their understanding of how language impacts communication and societal dynamics. The course aims to enhance students’ technological, analytical, and linguistic skills, preparing them for advanced academic pursuits or professional roles by highlighting the significant influence of language on societal interactions.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the foundational concepts, principles and methodologies associated with Corpus Linguistics
  • 2.
    Use a variety of state-of-the-art corpus analysis tools and software for analysing language data
  • 3.
    Apply corpus-based methods to examine and interpret language patterns within communication domains that are of interest or relevance to students
  • 4.
    Utilise linguistic data to explore and critically analyse social phenomena in broader social or cultural contexts
  • 5.
    Communicate findings from corpus data analysis to a variety of audiences, including both the general public and professionals
• LANG 2091

  Phonetics and Speech Technology

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  Speech technology such as AI powered voice assistants on smart speakers and smartphones has become an integral part of everyday life. Development of speech technology requires a systematic understanding of human speech sounds. This course introduces students to Phonetics, the scientific study of the physical properties of human speech sounds. Students will learn the physical (acoustic) properties of different components of human speech, how speech sounds are produced and how the knowledge of Phonetics can be useful to speech technology and its development. Students will be actively engaged throughout the course through lectures, interactive tasks, and hands-on practice and learning activities. They will also conduct computerized acoustic analyses of speech sounds using freely available software and explore topics in Phonetics (e.g. foreign accent) or speech technology (e.g. synthesized speech) which are of interest or relevance to students. This course assumes no prior knowledge of Phonetics or speech technology.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify English speech sounds and describe them phonetically
  • 2.
    Recognize and transcribe English speech sounds in terms of their distinctive features
  • 3.
    Explain the articulatory descriptions and acoustic properties of English speech sounds
  • 4.
    Conduct acoustic analyses of English speech sounds using appropriate tools or software
  • 5.
    Communicate research findings on a topic related to Phonetics and speech technology to a specific audience
• LANG 2170

  Chinese Communication Skills for Humanities & Social Science Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Description

  Restricted to students on the Global China Studies program. The course enables students to achieve thorough comprehension of texts written in Chinese, and prepares them for writing academic papers such as project reports and dissertations, with special attention paid to the demands on students from various Humanities and Social Science disciplines. Students must be able to read and write Chinese.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Develop skills in writing academic papers, including clear argumentation, logical inference, and proper bibliographic formatting.
  • 2.
    Critically analyze literature, understand authors’ perspectives, and formulate personal arguments based on academic articles.
  • 3.
    Master presentation skills tailored to different audiences, using appropriate spoken and body language, and audiovisual aids.
  • 4.
    Investigate topics related to China from various viewpoints, fostering a broader understanding of global issues.
  • 5.
    Uphold academic integrity in all course assignments and research activities.
• LANG 2200

  Japanese Language and Culture for Beginners II

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1210 OR (LANG 1211 AND LANG 1212)

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 2201, LANG 2202

  Description

  This 3-credit course builds on LANG 1210: Japanese Language and Culture for Beginners I as an upper-beginner course and prepares students for intermediate-level Japanese studies. The course develops integrated language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while strengthening Japanese vocabulary, grammar, and cultural understanding. Over 13 weeks, students will acquire essential communication skills for daily interactions in class, such as giving instructions, asking for permission, explaining actions, and describing events. They will also gain insights into Japanese cultural norms, including the role of hierarchy and the appropriate use of language styles in different social contexts. Alternatively, students may choose a more flexible learning pathway to learn this course’s content: LANG 2201 Communicative Japanese for Beginners II (2 credits) focusing on practical communication skills, and LANG 2202 Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials II (1 credit) to learn the vocabulary and grammar online at their own pace. Students without prerequisite but with equivalent competence in Japanese may seek instructor's approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Use approximately 1,000 vocabulary words to formulate sentences and short paragraphs that describe everyday activities, experiences, and changes.
  • 2.
    Apply fundamental Japanese grammar structures to construct sentences and short paragraphs for effective communication in daily contexts.
  • 3.
    Conduct basic Japanese conversations to express desires, give instructions, and seek permission.
  • 4.
    Distinguish and appropriately apply different language styles (e.g., polite and plain forms) in diverse social interactions.
  • 5.
    Apply kanji in written communication by composing sentences and short texts.
  • 6.
    Adapt verbal and written communication to align with Japanese cultural norms and contexts for culturally appropriate and effective interactions.
• LANG 2201

  Communicative Japanese for Beginners II

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1210 OR LANG 1211

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 2200

  Description

  This 2-credit course is designed for upper-beginner learners who want to strengthen their speaking and listening skills through interactive and face-to-face communicative practice. Over eight weeks, students will engage in structured activities that focus on expressing desires, making requests, discussing abilities, describing experiences, and giving opinions in practical situations. The course emphasizes spoken interaction, enabling students to build confidence in using Japanese in everyday conversations, social exchanges, and real-life scenarios. Through role-plays, group discussions, and task-based activities, students will develop fluency and improve their ability to communicate effectively. By the end of the course, students will be able to participate in conversations using expanded sentence structures, appropriate expressions, and culturally relevant communication strategies. Those looking to enhance their grammar and vocabulary can enrol in the same-level 1-credit self-paced online course, LANG 2202: Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials II, which offers comprehensive explanations and practice exercises on vocabulary and grammar rules. Students without prerequisite but with equivalent competence in Japanese may seek instructor's approval for enrollment in the course. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Communicate basic needs and intentions by expressing desires, making requests, giving instructions, and describing ongoing actions in everyday situations.
  • 2.
    Engage in interpersonal and social interactions by discussing familiar topics, asking for permission, understanding prohibitions, and describing people, objects, and locations using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
  • 3.
    Convey past experiences, opinions, and reasoning by making comparisons, using reported speech, making predictions, and using relative clauses for detailed descriptions.
  • 4.
    Participate in structured conversations by sequencing events, making hypothetical statements and decisions, and expressing gratitude.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate an understanding of Japanese culture and social norms.
• LANG 2202

  Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials II

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1212

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 2200

  Mode of Delivery

  [SPO] Self-paced online delivery

  Description

  This 1-credit self-paced online course is designed for upper-beginner Japanese learners and builds on LANG 1212: Japanese Vocabulary and Grammar Essentials I. It focuses on expanding vocabulary and strengthening grammar skills to prepare students for intermediate-level Japanese studies. Over eight weeks, students will express desires, give instructions, describe ongoing actions, differentiate between polite and plain speech, and construct complex sentences using relative clauses and conjunctions. The course consists of six self-paced online modules, featuring video lessons, interactive chatbot exercises, online quizzes, and a final in-person exam. By the end of the course, students will have a solid grasp of grammar and vocabulary, enabling them to construct and understand more complex sentences. Students are encouraged to also enrol in the 2-credit LANG 2201: Communicative Japanese for Beginners II, another upper-beginner course, to reinforce their learning through face-to-face conversational practice and real-life communication scenarios. Grade P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Formulate sentences and short paragraphs to describe everyday activities, experiences, and changes, using approximately 1,000 vocabulary words.
  • 2.
    Construct grammatically accurate sentences using te-form, nai-form, ru-form, and ta-form to express actions, requests, obligations, and prohibitions.
  • 3.
    Differentiate and apply polite and plain speech appropriately in various contexts.
  • 4.
    Form complex sentences by incorporating conjunctions, relative clauses, reported speech, and hypothetical statements.
  • 5.
    Express opinions, describe experiences, and discuss giving and receiving in structured sentences.
• LANG 3021

  Science Communication in English (Mathematics)

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DSCT only) LANG 2010 OR LANG 2030 ; (For all others) LANG 2010

  Description

  The course focuses on developing students' ability to communicate mathematical knowledge to the general public through effective writing and speaking skills. In writing, students learn the specific skills to produce genres of both expository and persuasive nature, and reflect on how to explain mathematics concepts in an accessible manner without losing the scientific complexity. In speaking, students learn how to communicate mathematics notions and implications to nonexpert audiences using short videos and oral presentations with appropriate rhetorical and stylistic devices. For MATH and DSCT students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Formulate a specific message related to Mathematics to the public
  • 2.
    Demonstrate knowledge of the features of various spoken and written genres in Science Communication
  • 3.
    Read and retrieve salient points made in popular science articles in the field of Mathematics
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively scientific concepts and knowledge in writing and oral presentations to lay audiences
  • 5.
    Engage in lifelong language learning through intelligent selection and adaptation of various learning resources
  • 6.
    Communicate effectively in a team through involvement in project work
• LANG 3022

  Science Communication in English (Chemistry)

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2010

  Description

  The course focuses on developing students' ability to communicate chemistry knowledge to the general public through effective writing and speaking skills. In writing, students learn the specific skills to write genres of both expository and persuasive nature, and reflect on how to explain chemistry concepts in an accessible manner without losing the scientific complexity. In speaking, students learn how to communicate chemistry notions and implications to nonexpert audiences using short videos and oral presentations with appropriate rhetorical and stylistic devices. For CHEM students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Formulate a specific message related to Chemistry to the public
  • 2.
    Demonstrate knowledge of the features of various spoken and written genres in Science Communication
  • 3.
    Read and retrieve salient points made in popular science articles in the field of Chemistry
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively scientific concepts and knowledge in writing and oral presentations to lay audiences
  • 5.
    Engage in lifelong language learning through intelligent selection and adaptation of various learning resources
  • 6.
    Communicate effectively in a team through involvement in project work
• LANG 3023

  Science Communication in English (Physics)

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2010

  Description

  The course focuses on developing students' ability to communicate physics knowledge to the general public through effective writing and speaking skills. In writing, students learn the specific skills to produce genres of both expository and persuasive nature, and reflect on how to explain physics concepts in an accessible manner without losing the scientific complexity. In speaking, students learn how to communicate physics notions and implications to nonexpert audiences using short videos and oral presentations with appropriate rhetorical and stylistic devices. For PHYS students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Formulate a specific message related to Physics to the public
  • 2.
    Demonstrate knowledge of the features of various spoken and written genres in Science Communication
  • 3.
    Read and retrieve salient points made in popular science articles in the field of Physics
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively scientific concepts and knowledge in writing and oral presentations to lay audiences
  • 5.
    Engage in lifelong language learning through intelligent selection and adaptation of various learning resources
  • 6.
    Communicate effectively in a team through involvement in project work
• LANG 3024

  Science Communication in English (Life Science)

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23); (For all others) LANG 2010

  Description

  The course focuses on developing students' ability to communicate life science knowledge to the general public through effective writing and speaking skills. In writing, students learn the specific skills to produce genres of both expository and persuasive nature, and reflect on how to explain life science concepts in an accessible manner without losing the scientific complexity. In speaking, students learn how to communicate life science notions and implications to nonexpert audiences using short videos and oral presentations with appropriate rhetorical and stylistic devices. For BCB, BISC and BIOT students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Formulate a specific message related to Life Science to the public
  • 2.
    Demonstrate knowledge of the features of various spoken and written genres in Science Communication
  • 3.
    Read and retrieve salient points made in popular science articles in the field of Life Science
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively scientific concepts and knowledge in writing and oral presentations to lay audiences
  • 5.
    Engage in lifelong language learning through intelligent selection and adaptation of various learning resources
  • 6.
    Communicate effectively in a team through involvement in project work
• LANG 3025

  Science Communication in English (Environmental Science)

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2010

  Description

  The course focuses on developing students' ability to communicate environmental science knowledge to the general public through effective writing and speaking skills. In writing, students learn the specific skills to produce genres of both expository and persuasive nature, and reflect on how to explain environmental science concepts in an accessible manner without losing the scientific complexity. In speaking, students learn how to communicate environmental science notions and implications to nonexpert audiences using short videos and oral presentations with appropriate rhetorical and stylistic devices. For students on programs offered by the Department of Ocean Science.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Formulate a specific message related to Environmental Science to the public
  • 2.
    Demonstrate knowledge of the features of various spoken and written genres in Science Communication
  • 3.
    Read and retrieve salient points made in popular science articles in the field of Environmental Science
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively scientific concepts and knowledge in writing and oral presentations to lay audiences
  • 5.
    Engage in lifelong language learning through intelligent selection and adaptation of various learning resources
  • 6.
    Communicate effectively in a team through involvement in project work
• LANG 3027

  Science Communication in English for Research Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2010

  Description

  This course offers undergraduate students the opportunity to improve their skills in writing research articles, abstracts, review articles, and other related genres. The course teaches academic writing features and research writing, referencing and editing skills, to help Science students write up their research project reports professionally. Input on how to write different sections of a scientific research paper will be provided, with illustrations from authentic texts. Students will be guided to complete their individual reports by exploring the research writing conventions of their individual disciplines and will receive feedback on their own writing. Instructor's approval is required for enrolment in the course. For IRE students and students doing research projects in the School of Science only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Create an experiential report to provide a comprehensive overview of students’ learning experience from the overseas research internship program.
  • 2.
    Complete a 6-module microlearning series to critically analyze and evaluate the components of a research article.
  • 3.
    Critically evaluate research writing genre in terms of structure, organization and rhetorical moves to create and refine a research article by integrating peer and teacher feedback.
  • 4.
    Create an impactful, multimodal academic poster to give a clear, logical, appropriate, and persuasive poster presentation.
  • 5.
    Deliver a clear and logical conference presentation by paying attention to how audience, purpose, and context influence language, organization, and rhetorical strategies.
• LANG 3060

  Advanced Academic Writing

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404

  Exclusion(s)

  ECON 3700, LABU 2040, LABU 2060, LANG 2065

  Description

  This course offers students advanced strategies and practice in writing texts in their academic disciplines. It increases student awareness of how disciplinary conventions, genre and rhetorical situations call for different choices in language, organization, format, citation and style. As students explore and analyze academic disciplinary genres and their research and writing process they learn how to use advanced language skills and strategies including developing stances, defining, explaining, reporting, analyzing, synthesizing and organizing and how to repurpose academic content to communicate ideas effectively. The course also develops in students the view of writing as a social process as they work with a community of writers who share ideas, give feedback and support. It creates writers who are engaged to demonstrate their writing in various ways including a small-scale research project. The course threads competencies in communication, problem-solving and personal development including lifelong learning and awareness to help students develop transferable skills to become effective writers in their academic disciplines. For all SBM programs, BIBU, MAEC, T&M-DDP, SGFN & QSA students.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply knowledge of rhetoric, genre and conventions generic across disciplines and specific to their field to write texts appropriate for academic contexts, purpose and audiences.
  • 2.
    Critically analyze, synthesize and integrate sources using advanced citation practices in the discipline.
  • 3.
    Organize texts logically and coherently to communicate information and ideas by applying both common and discipline-specific conventions.
  • 4.
    Analyze and apply advanced skills and strategies in writing including stance development, definition, analysis, synthesis, explanation and reporting, and control of syntax, mechanics and style.
  • 5.
    Develop awareness of writing as a social process by collaborating effectively with peers in the writing process and giving constructive feedback.
  • 6.
    Reflect critically on their own writing to identify areas for improvement to enhance their writing skills.
  • 7.
    Adapt academic texts for public audiences to engage and persuade, including the use of multimodal means.
  • 8.
    Integrate use of technologies including Gen AI with strong emphasis on ethical considerations to enhance writing practices.
• LANG 3070

  English Communication for Humanities and Social Science Studies II

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2070

  Description

  Restricted to students on programs offered by the School of Humanities and Social Science. The course builds on the critical reading and thinking skills students have developed, and prepares them for writing up long documents such as project reports and dissertations, with special attention paid to the demands on students from various Humanities and Social Science disciplines.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognise different stylistic features of texts.
  • 2.
    Identify subjective and objective language in a range of written texts.
  • 3.
    Recognise the expression of register and tone through vocabulary and grammatical structure.
  • 4.
    Make judicious selections of vocabulary in writing, based on a number of criteria such as intended readership and purpose.
  • 5.
    Recognize and apply a range of hedging devices.
  • 6.
    Make an effective presentation in an academic context.
• LANG 3081

  Communication for Environmental Management and Technology III

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 2083

  Description

  The course aims to develop students' ability to use effective and appropriate organizational structures, vocabulary, language and style in Capstone Project proposals, reports and presentations. For EVMT students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand the different career paths and opportunities there are available to graduates from the Environmental Management and Technology program
  • 2.
    Appreciate the needs, expectations, and priorities of potential employers
  • 3.
    Understand the linguistic features of the various text-types and genres related to employment
  • 4.
    Produce a range of documents related to employment and career
  • 5.
    Develop oral communication skills for employment and further study interviews related to careers in Environmental Management
  • 6.
    Develop positive personal and interpersonal skills
  • 7.
    Set individual career goals
• LANG 4010

  From Report to Presentation: Mastering Effective Communication in Environmental Impact Assessments

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1409 OR LANG 2010

  Corequisite(s)

  OCES 4203

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 3025

  Description

  This course, designed for Ocean Science students, serves as a co-requisite to OCES 4203 Environmental Impact and Risk Assessment. It focuses on developing linguistic and analytical skills necessary for evaluating environmental impacts in marine contexts. The course emphasizes key principles of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), with a strong focus on the effective use of language in report writing and effective communication strategies required for public consultation processes. Students will engage in discussions of authentic EIA examples, hands-on writing tasks, consultation simulation activities, supported by self-directed learning modules to enhance their ability to effectively communicate findings to a range of stakeholders. The course assessments are closely aligned with the requirements of OCES 4203, providing a cohesive and comprehensive language foundation for addressing environmental impact challenges in professional marine contexts. For Ocean Science students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify key stakeholders in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, analyze the challenges of communicating with them, and apply appropriate language and communication strategies tailored to the audience, context, and purpose.
  • 2.
    Compose clear, concise, and coherent summaries of EIA reports that effectively communicate environmental impacts to various audiences.
  • 3.
    Describe the potential environmental impacts of projects using appropriate language and organizational strategies that enhance clarity and understanding.
  • 4.
    Adapt scientific language used in EIA reports to effectively communicate complex information to non-expert audiences.
  • 5.
    Critically evaluate impact assessment results and coherently organize and justify the discussion effectively.
  • 6.
    Present visual information, including graphs, charts, and maps in a format that enhances comprehension and accurately references official documents and sources.
  • 7.
    Facilitate effective public consultations through public meetings by engaging stakeholders with clear, inclusive communication about the project, its environmental impacts, mitigation measures, and regulatory compliance, while professionally managing feedback to foster meaningful dialogue and address concerns constructively.
• LANG 4030

  Technical Communication II for CSE, CPEG & DSCT

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23); (For DSCT only) LANG 2010 OR LANG 2030; (For all others) LANG 2030

  Corequisite(s)

  (For COMP and DSCT) COMP 4910 OR COMP 4981 OR COMP 4981H ; (For CPEG) CPEG 4901 OR CPEG 4902 OR CPEG 4910; (For COSC) Nil

  Description

  A one-term, major-specific language course for CSE students, and for CPEG and DSCT students undertaking a CSE Final Year Project or Final Year Thesis. The course focuses on report writing and presentations, and communication in professional contexts relevant to the disciplines.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify and address the needs and concerns of a variety of academic and professional audiences in speaking and writing
  • 2.
    Support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources
  • 3.
    Critically analyze and discuss major issues and recent developments in their major and related professions
  • 4.
    Recognize and use appropriate organizational structure, tone and formatting in written and spoken communication for different audiences and purposes
  • 5.
    Select, summarize and synthesize information from texts in their major subject
  • 6.
    Use accurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to engineering-related communication tasks
  • 7.
    Demonstrate academic integrity in course assignments
  • 8.
    Recognize the need to communicate courteously and appropriately in professional contexts
• LANG 4031

  Technical Communication II for ECE & CPEG

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (Prior to 2022-23); (For all others) LANG 2030

  Corequisite(s)

  ELEC 4900 OR ELEC 4901 OR ELEC 4910 OR CPEG 4910 OR CPEG 4911 OR CPEG 4912

  Description

  A one-term, major-specific language course for all ECE students and for all CPEG students undertaking an ECE Final Year Project. The course focuses on Final Year Project report writing and presentations and communication in professional contexts relevant to ECE and CPEG.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify and address the needs and concerns of a variety of academic and professional audiences in speaking and writing
  • 2.
    Support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources
  • 3.
    Critically analyze and discuss major issues and recent developments in their major and related professions
  • 4.
    Recognize and use appropriate organizational structure, tone and formatting in written and spoken communication for different audiences and purposes
  • 5.
    Select, summarize and synthesize information from texts in their major subject
  • 6.
    Use accurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to engineering-related communication tasks
  • 7.
    Demonstrate academic integrity in course assignments
  • 8.
    Recognize the need to communicate courteously and appropriately in professional contexts
• LANG 4032

  Technical Communication II for IEDA and ISDN

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23); (For all others) LANG 2030

  Description

  A one-term, major-specific language course for students in IEDA and ISDN. The course focuses on Final Year Project report writing and presentations and appropriate communication strategies and language use in professional contexts relevant to the disciplines. For IEDA and ISDN students in their third or fourth year of study only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify and address the needs and concerns of a variety of academic and professional audiences in speaking and writing
  • 2.
    Support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources
  • 3.
    Critically analyze and discuss major issues and recent developments in their major and related professions
  • 4.
    Recognize and use appropriate organizational structure, tone and formatting in written and spoken communication for different audiences and purposes
  • 5.
    Select, summarize and synthesize information from texts in their major subject
  • 6.
    Use accurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to engineering-related communication tasks
  • 7.
    Demonstrate academic integrity in course assignments
  • 8.
    Recognize the need to communicate courteously and appropriately in professional contexts
• LANG 4033

  Technical Communication II for Civil and Environmental Engineering

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (Prior to 2022-23); (For all others) LANG 2030

  Description

  A one-term, major-specific language course for all students of the CIVL Department undertaking the Final Year Project and Capstone Project. The course focuses on Final Year Project report writing and presentations, and communication in professional contexts relevant to the CIVL Capstone Project. For CIVL and CIEV students in their third or fourth year of study only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify and address the needs and concerns of a variety of academic and professional audiences in speaking and writing
  • 2.
    Support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources
  • 3.
    Critically analyze and discuss major issues and recent developments in their major and related professions
  • 4.
    Recognize and use appropriate organizational structure, tone and formatting in written and spoken communication for different audiences and purposes
  • 5.
    Select, summarize and synthesize information from texts in their major subject
  • 6.
    Use accurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to engineering-related communication tasks
  • 7.
    Demonstrate academic integrity in course assignments
  • 8.
    Recognize the need to communicate courteously and appropriately in professional contexts
• LANG 4034

  Technical Communication II for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (Prior to 2022-23); (For all others) LANG 2030

  Corequisite(s)

  MECH 3690 OR MECH 3830

  Description

  A one-term, major-specific course for all Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering students. The course focuses on academic speaking and writing skills for laboratory report writing and the Final Year Design Project. For MAE students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify and address the needs and concerns of an academic audience in speaking and writing
  • 2.
    Support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources
  • 3.
    Identify the format, style and register of laboratory and final-year project reports
  • 4.
    Select, summarize and synthesize information from texts in their major subject
  • 5.
    Write laboratory and final-year project reports in appropriate English style
  • 6.
    Give effective oral presentations based on the results of experiments
  • 7.
    Use accurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to engineering-related communication tasks
  • 8.
    Demonstrate academic integrity in course assignments
• LANG 4035

  Technical Communication II for Chemical and Biological Engineering

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (For DDP only) LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1003 (Prior to 2022-23); (For all others) LANG 2030

  Description

  A one-term, major-specific course for all students in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering. The course focuses on Final Year Project report writing and presentations, and communication in professional contexts relevant to chemical and biological engineering. For CBE students in their third or fourth year of study only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify and address the needs and concerns of a variety of academic and professional audiences in speaking and writing
  • 2.
    Support claims with appropriate evidence, and properly acknowledge sources
  • 3.
    Critically analyze and discuss major issues and recent developments in the subject major and related professions
  • 4.
    Recognize and use appropriate organizational structure, tone and formatting in written and spoken communication for different audiences and purposes
  • 5.
    Select, summarize and synthesize information from academic and professional texts in their major subject
  • 6.
    Use accurate and fluent language (vocabulary, structures and style) relevant to engineering-related communication tasks
  • 7.
    Demonstrate academic integrity in course assignment
  • 8.
    Recognize the need to communicate courteously and appropriately in professional contexts
• LANG 4036

  Technical Communication for Technology Projects

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  LANG 1406 OR LANG 1407 OR LANG 1408 OR LANG 1409 OR [(For DDP only) LANG 1003 (prior to 2022-23) OR LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404] OR [(For non-DDP only) LANG 2030]

  Corequisite(s)

  ISDN 4001

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 4032

  Description

  The course is designed to meet the language needs of students in Integrative Systems and Design who undertake project work for academic and professional purposes. Throughout a project life cycle, documentation and presentation are crucial for ongoing appraisal and assessment. Content selection, organization, and language use play a pivotal role in shaping the perceived quality of the work. This course focuses on further developing these skills within the context of project work. Students are expected to adopt a discovery approach to improving their language skills, collaboratively finding solutions to meet the various demands of documentation and presentation. This is achieved through participation in structured activities, supported by regular instructor feedback, peer reviews and self-reflection. For ISDN students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate effective language use throughout the project life cycle phases including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
  • 2.
    Select, organize, and present project content effectively in both written and spoken forms, tailored to diverse contexts and audiences.
  • 3.
    Reflect on feedback from others and personal self-assessment to identify areas for improvement and enhance language skills.
  • 4.
    Collaborate effectively within a team to achieve shared goals and maximize overall performance.
  • 5.
    Identify personal language development needs and effectively implement strategies to enhance language proficiency independently.
• LANG 4070

  Academic Writing in Context - Global China Studies

  1 Credit(s)
  Corequisite(s)

  SHSS 4991 OR SHSS 4992

  Description

  This is a course with a special delivery mode -- a combination of input sessions plus highly individualized assistance provided for students to address their specific writing needs, dictated by students' choices of topics in particular areas of Global China Studies. For GCS students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Improve through provision of timely and relevant feedback and through getting them to write multiple drafts
  • 2.
    Become sensitized to the use of appropriate tone and style in writing academic texts and become proficient in presenting arguments in accurate and succinct English
  • 3.
    Produce a readable academic paper
  • 4.
    Demonstrate understanding of the conventions of academic writing with specific reference to the writing of literature reviews and the compilation of bibliographies
  • 5.
    Show academic honesty and the ability to avoid plagiarism by acquiring skills in paraphrasing and making citations