English language the key to success
IT is that time of the year when examination results have just been released, and school leavers are finding themselves at one of the most important crossroads in their lives.
Some are considering tertiary education, while others will enter the workforce. Whichever path one takes, the ability to use English confidently continues to grow in importance as an essential skill for future success.
Competence in the language is more than just the ability to pass tests – it is having the confidence to communicate fluently and accurately, and also use the language to function in a variety of everyday situations.
This means that the most effective English programme for people who need to use English as a medium for work or study will be one that incorporates the essentials of the English language as well as training in soft skills to tackle a variety of real-world situations.
One way for young adults to proactively enhance their prospects in life and employability skills is to continue developing their English skills with the help of the British Council - the global English experts for over 80 years since its establishment.
The British Council has been helping people in Malaysia (and globally) develop their English skills for decades. It offers full-time and part-time adult English courses, specifically designed to help students make real progress in English – be it for academic life, the world of work or other real life situations.
SMART English is an intensive course for adults with two key components - Core English and Life Skills - both working synergistically to improve one’s English effectively in a short period of time.
The Core English component will focus on improving students’ English speaking, writing, reading and listening skills, as well as their grammar and vocabulary. Through interactive, fun and engaging lessons with real-life activities, students will rapidly improve and become more confident and fluent in their use of English.
The Life Skills component helps students develop both awareness of and competence in key 21st century skills.
Each week is devoted to a specific area, and throughout the study period students will have the opportunity to learn about (and practice) skills such as critical thinking, time management, problem solving and working in teams. The ability to perform such tasks well in English is a powerful addition to any CV.
There are four levels – Elementary, Pre-intermediate, Intermediate and Upper Intermediate. Students will need to sit for a placement test to be placed in the appropriate level.
Learn in a highly conducive English environment where lessons are conducted by highly and internationally qualified teachers from the British Council network, using state-of-the-art learning technology such as Interactive White Boards and iPads to further aid your learning.
Students would also receive certificates with grades upon completion of each module, and have access to a wealth of online resources that they can utilise for further learning outside the classroom.
In addition, one can also attend weekly speaking clubs and writing practice sessions, for free. There are intakes for the full-time and part-time course every month. Classes are small and limited to 20 students each, so do register early.
The combination of Core English skills and Soft Skills makes the British Council a unique learning experience that offers more than just English to provide students with that competitive edge to help them get ahead in studies, work and life.
For registration, contact the British Council at 04-2020010 or e-mail to penangmktg1@britishcouncil.org.my. Visit www.britishcouncil.my for more information about the British Council and its courses.