English B1 (Language for Specific Purposes - Social Work)

22B1712

Bachelor

English

5.0

winter and summer term

1 semester

The module consists of 2 courses taught by different lecturers: Component 1 and Component 2 (2 SWS each).

In component 1, students focus on improving general and business English skills.

In component 2, the focus is on subject-specific English (English for Social Work).

The module English B1 (Language for Specific Purposes - Social Work) leads to the further development of competences at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

The module includes professional language training and prepares students for study and internship abroad. The subject-specific language training also serves the independent processing of sociological literature.

The emphasis is also placed on better communication in the foreign language in various areas of social work.

The module focuses on improving participants' ability to communicate effectively in a variety of contexts by practicing and refining key speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.

The module is divided into two components. In Part 1, students focus on improving general and business English skills. They practice the language skills essential for writing business correspondence, as well as for discussing ideas and arguments, leading and participating in meetings.

In Part 2, the focus is on subject-specific English (English for Social Work). Here students focus on improving their presentation skills in a professional context and learn professional vocabulary.

• Reading, analysis and discussion of selected articles from textbooks and English language journals.
• Terminology of business and social sciences
• Case studies in health management
• oral and written text reproduction
• discussions and short presentations
• consolidation of grammatical and idiomatic structures in a professional context
• reading and listening comprehension strategies
• language usage and modern learning techniques

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

The hours used in the Lecturer-Based Learning field are teaching hours.

The module consists of two components of 2 SWS each. The forms of teaching and learning mentioned refer to both components in the module.

• Portfolio exam or
• Portfolio exam

PFP-1) The portfolio examination comprises 100 points and consists of a one-hour written examination (K1) and an oral examination (M). Each element is weighted with 50 points. 

PFP-2) The portfolio examination is worth 100 points and consists of two 30-minute written examinations (K30), a presentation (PR) and an oral examination (M). Each element is weighted with 25 points.

Written exam as part of the portfolio examinations: See applicable study regulations

Oral examinations as part of the portfolio examination: see general section of the examination regulations

Presentation as part of the portfolio examination: approx. 8 - 10 minutes

The requirements are specified in the respective course.

Passed module A2 or equivalent previous knowledge (corresponding assignment by the placement test)

Students have a broad and integrated understanding of language for social work.

They know specialist terminology and are able to identify and assign various concepts from the social field. They can describe, explain and evaluate subject-specific case studies in English.

Students can explain the structure and content of specialist social science texts in the foreign language. 

They can recognize social science problems and concepts and name them in the foreign language. 

Knowledge of subject-specific vocabulary, idiomatic and grammatical structures in English enables them to communicate confidently in various areas of social work. 

 The correct grammatical use of the language enables precise and professional communication in business and professional contexts.

Students are able to report on current topics and trends in the social sciences in the English-speaking world and explain connections.

In addition, they will recognize the cultural characteristics of the target language countries in both a general language and specialist context. They understand how cultural differences can affect working life and gain an insight into the working methods and ethics of the Anglo-American business world. This enables students to better interpret and apply business etiquette and protocols, allowing for improved interaction with international clients and colleagues.

Students can distinguish and use technical terms in the foreign language. 

They are able to understand social science contexts relatively independently and write specialist articles/business letters/reports effectively in English.  

Students can create an (English) CV for job applications and are able to successfully take part in an interview. 

They will be able to conduct and participate in discussions and conversations by explaining, justifying, defending and responding to their own opinions, points of view and plans. 

They will be able to prepare and give subject-specific presentations.

Students are able to independently research, analyze and present specific topics of relevance to society as a whole (especially with regard to the social sciences).

Students are able to communicate confidently in the foreign language in specialist contexts. They can communicate appropriately with foreign colleagues in the foreign language. 

They can present and discuss a case description in a team. You will be able to conduct team discussions and analyze, describe and evaluate situations from a professional perspective in English. 

By learning the cultural characteristics of the respective language area and using extended vocabulary, students will be able to communicate in a relatively appropriate manner. 

They develop a sensitivity for the connections between language and culture, which enables better intercultural communication.

Students are familiar with technical (socioscientific) terminology and case studies in the relevant context.

They have a good assessment of their own language skills and know how to improve their language skills if necessary. 

Students develop a good understanding of specialist literature and are better prepared for later participation in (English-language) international conferences. 

The skills acquired prepare students for taking on management positions later on.

The module builds on the skills acquired in the module "English A2 (advanced course)". It prepares students to be able to read, understand and use English specialist texts and thus creates a specialist language approach that lays the foundation for the acquisition of skills in the subsequent modules.

In addition, the module helps students to gain access to English-language literature and to familiarize them with the special features of the English-speaking world. These skills promote the internationalization of students and thus of the degree programme as a whole.

Language modules also play an important role as part of a business administration or social science degree course, as they enable students to develop the language skills required for international professional relationships later on.

• Social Work, B.A.

• Asiayee, Hamid

• Asiayee, Hamid