L1 Lang: Grade Breakdown and Homework

Like last semester, four grades will factor into your overall grade for the semester.

1) Written Homework 15%-description below.
2) Listening Exam 25% -In class on April 16th. You will hear a passage similar to the ones you prepare for class three times and answer comprehension questions. The passage will be linked to one of the topics we have studied during the semester.
3) Final Written Exam 40%-in class on May 7th. You will have sections on the different language points we have studied (ex. describing personality, giving instructions), a reading section, and a written essay. The material for the reading and essay will also be linked to topics we have discussed in class.
4) Oral Participation 20%. This grade will measure how efficiently you have tried to improve your spoken English during the 13 weeks in class.

For your writing assignment this semester, you will be writing a cover letter for a job in the English speaking world. The first step will be for you to find a job posting that interests you. To do this, you might search on the internet or in English language newspapers. You will turn in a copy of the job posting with your letter. Once you have found a job that interests you, you will write a letter that describes:

1) What skills and qualities would be required in order to do this job? How can you present your skills as attractive to a potential employer?
2) What personality traits make you an attractive candidate?
3) What experience do you have that would help prepare you for the job?

You have the option of doing a first draft and receiving feedback from me before turning in the final version. If you would like for me to read your draft and propose suggestions, you need to have it for me in class on March 19th. The final version will be due in class on April 2nd. We will cover business letter forms at the end of class on March 12th. Your letter should be between 250 and 500 words, and you can contact me at njs2g@virginia.edu if you have any questions.