Interactive Syllabus

DEBATING IN ENGLISH (CJVC_DE )

Teachers: 

Mgr. Colin Kimbrell

Mgr. Dita Trčková, Ph.D.

Credits: 

2 credits

Aims: 

• to learn how to build clear, effective and evidenced argumentation,

• to get to know main tools of persuasion,

• to develop students' negotiation skills.

The emphasis is placed on the development of students' analytical and critical thinking within discussions on a wide range of topics on current social and political events.

Teaching methods:

Dual mode: debates in small groups online + fulfillment of homework tasks posted in Interactive syllabi in IS

Online classes will be held via Zoom during the scheduled class time (Tuesdays, 14:00-15:40):

https://cesnet.zoom.us/j/99328501061?pwd=YUJEQmo2dWpwQ0E5SldZbWl2V1BIZz09 

Meeting ID: 993 2850 1061

Passcode: 890812

Assessment:

• Participation: 80% attendance, active participation in in-class discussions & debates

• Mini-research on a specific debating format and presentation of findings, i.e. background, procedures and rules (could be supplemented by a video example): The presentation of findings will be done as a short report, including a link to a video example; nothing formal, but it should be comprehensive so that your classmates can easily familiarize themselves with the given debate format. If appropriate, you may suggest a particular section of the respective video to watch.

• Presentation on academic topic of interest + leading of discussion: You will give a max. 10 minute presentation on a topic of your interest, one which has an element of controversy or is open to debate. The presentation will serve as an introduction to the topic, which will then be the subject of a debate following a particular format as selected by you. You will be involved in organizing the debate in collaboration with me.  Registration: https://doodle.com/poll/pit7ia7hfqvfat88?utm_source=poll&utm_medium=link

• Giving a persuasive speech: To be given during the last two weeks of the course, max. 10 minutes. On a topic of your own choosing, which you should inform me of in advance.

Teaching materials:

• Edward DE. Chazal (2012) Oxford English for Academic Purposes B2. Oxford: OUP.

• Edward DE. Chazal and S. Mccarter (2012) Oxford English for Academic Purposes C1. Oxford: OUP.

• additional materials and videos