Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student should be able to: • read a paragraph/text and demonstrate understanding of that paragraph/text; • listen to a video (e.g. a news item) and demonstrate an understanding of the information (main and detailed) in the video; • Write an essay (opstel) on a subject related to the themes covered during the year, respecting the rules of grammar, using adequate vocabulary and ensuring the structure and coherence of the argument; • to orally present a pre-prepared paper; • demonstrate mastery of vocabulary and grammar rules in tests and in practice of the above skills.

Goals

In view of the different levels of knowledge and ability in Dutch, differentiated teaching is organised. At the beginning of the academic year, a diagnostic test is organised to take into account the level of each student: beginner (A1/A2) or intermediate (B1). The Dutch 1 course has several objectives: • review basic grammar and vocabulary (1000 most frequent words); • develop a command of the vocabulary specific to your field of study; • demonstrate mastery of grammar and vocabulary in the different skills at the desired level: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, writing, speaking (with or without interaction); • develop critical and argumentative thinking ; • develop your autonomy in learning (in general, and in learning Dutch in particular); • develop certain cross-cutting skills: stress management, communication, deadline management, etc. This course aims to achieve level A2/B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Content

The materials and content of the course will vary according to the level. Specific materials will be used for the beginner and (super) advanced levels. Most of the materials will be available on Webcampus. The contents per level are specified in the learning calendar (Leerkalender).

Assessment method

• An online diagnostic test is organised at the beginning of the academic year with the sole aim of placing students in the level that suits them best. This diagnostic test covers three important aspects of the course: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, and mastery of the necessary linguistic tools (grammatical and lexical basics). • The 4 skills will be assessed: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, writing and speaking. • During the year, 2 tests will be organised to check the mastery of the following elements: grammar, vocabulary + reading/listening comprehension. • The oral exam will take place out of session, during the last class sessions. Written expression will be assessed out of session, during the last class. • In order to develop autonomy in their learning, students will be required to keep a learning diary. This is to be handed in at the end of the year. • Any part not presented or unjustified absence from any part of the assessment will result in a 1/20 for the whole course. • For the August session, if the overall average of the course does not reach 10/20, each student will repeat the parts for which he/she did not obtain 10/20. • Distribution of points : 30% written (6 pts): writing an essay ('opstel') in the last class 20% oral (4 pts): presentation of two articles during one of the last courses 15% November test (3 points): grammar + vocabulary + reading comprehension 25% February test (5 points): grammar + vocabulary + listening comprehension 10% logbook (2 pts): average of active participation scores + time spent on the course

Sources, references and any support material

• The course materials (texts and videos) will be available online, on Webcampus • elementary level: book Nieuwe Start 1 + book Nieuwe Start 2 (De Boeck) • Revision of basic vocabulary (all levels): book Woorden in Context Deel 1 (De Boeck)* • Tips for revising basic grammar : • Online exercises on Webcampus • book: Dutch practice from A to Z (Didier Hatier) • book: Nederlandse Oefenbijbel (Didier Hatier) • The above materials are available in bookshops. * These materials are available at the Reprography Office on the ground floor of the ECO Faculty.

Language of instruction

Français