Welcome New Students!

About me...

Let me introduce myself. My name is Dianna Pickens, and I am here to help you with your English.I have a Ph.D. in Linguistics and Comparative Literature and I have beenteaching for many years (since 1987!). So, regardless of your background, I am convinced that all of you can learn to speak English as fluently as you want to!

AboutEnglish at the Faculty of Agriculture...

At this faculty, we expect you to read, write, speak and understand English at or above the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Thismeans that you can understand the main points of clear standard input onfamiliar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. You must also be able to deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where English is spoken. You will be asked to write about topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Finally, you will be expected to describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions, and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

In addition, by the time you reach your third year at this faculty, you will be expected to read and understand professional/technical articles in your chosen field of study as well as write an abstract and powerpoint presentation of your thesis in English.

About the exam...

If you have studied English in the past and have reached a level that we consider 'idoneo', you will automatically receive your credits, but only if you can provide aninternationally recognized certificate at the B1 level or higher.* We also offer courses at higher levels for students who would like to continue to improve beyond the minimum requirement.

If you don't have a B1 certificate or higher, but have studied English quite well, you are welcome tocome and take the exam directly. I will be available on Thursday mornings from 9:30 to 11 a.m. for that purpose.

About the courses....

Courses for students of the first year will be held on Fridays. You will be divided into groups, and you are expected to attend courses until you reach the level of competence we expect (level B1). Most students are able to pass the exam by the end of theirfirst year. Technically, however, you will have three years to pass the exam. It is your responsibility to make sure you reach the level required before yougraduate...just as it is your responsibility to learn chemistry, biology ormathematics. And although those other subjects are indeed difficult ones, and English is certainly easier, studying to become competent in English takes more time, so you would be wise to avoid leaving it to the last minute!
* n.b. Trinity Speaking and Listening Exams are a good start, but not enough. You will need to show your reading and writing skills on the required written exam at this Faculty as well.