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Current Events Discussion Group (English)
Purpose:
The purpose of the discussion group is to practice English conversation skills and discuss international current events with a native English speaker.
General Information:
· The group will meet once a week for 2 hours each session.
· The group leader will email material (online news articles and/or videos) before each meeting.
· The material will come from various sources, such as: The Economist, The New York Times, The BBC, The Financial Times, etc. Topics will focus on international relations, politics, economics, and whatever is currently happening in the news.
· Each group member should review the material before the next meeting. Typically, you can expect 2-3 articles each week, but sometimes more or less depending on the length of the articles.
· Be sure to make notes of any questions you have while reviewing the material; confusing phrases, new vocabulary, or problems understanding the content.
· Homework – There will not be actual assignments. However, each group member should come prepared to each meeting and be ready to discuss the material.
Schedule (Example):
Each session will focus on various topics depending on what is currently happening in the news. More or less time may be spent on certain topics depending on the group’s interest. Here is an example of a typical schedule:
15 min. |
Group leader (or member) reads the first article out loud and answers any questions regarding vocabulary, phrases, pronunciation, etc. |
25 min. |
Discussion of the first article’s topic. Group leader will ask questions to help prompt a productive discussion. Group members are encouraged to express their opinion. |
15 min. |
Members read the second article out loud. |
25 min. |
Discussion on second article. |
40 min. |
Various speaking activities: Could be another discussion, watching and responding to news video, reading passages from a book, etc. |
Goals
· To be able to discuss international events and news in English.
· Practice conversation skills with emphasis on speaking and listening.
· Become more confident communicating with a native English speaker.
· Learn more about international news, business, and culture.