ENGLISH Objective B2 (SOCA, HUSO, SPOL)

langs1203  2026-2027  Louvain-la-Neuve

ENGLISH Objective B2 (SOCA, HUSO, SPOL)
3.00 credits
45.0 h
Q1 and Q2
Teacher(s)
Jacob Sandrine (coordinator);
Language
English
Prerequisites
Students must have level B1+ in English or taken the course LANGS1202 (English Objective B1+ SOCA HUSO SPOL) or another equivalent course corresponding to Level B1+ of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Main themes
The topics covered are selected in line with the learning outcomes of the programme and the communicative needs as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) for the target level (B2).
They cover specialised communication situations relating to the fields and professions of social sciences and humanities, sociology and anthropology, political science, such as sustainable development and gender and identity.
Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

Learning outcomes (Bachelor’s degree programmes in Sociology and Anthropology, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Political Science, general stream)
  • LO4. Communicate and collaborate in French and two foreign languages, both orally and in writing, while adapting to the audience and context to integrate into an international environment.
    • LO4.2. For 2 foreign languages (English and Dutch, German, or Spanish): 
      • Communicate orally and in writing in a clear, coherent, well-argued, and fluent manner on general topics or subjects related to the field of study. 
      • Identify differences and similarities between the target culture (associated with the language) and the culture of origin. 
      • Use appropriate strategies to establish contact with speakers of the target culture.
    • LO4.4. Adopt an effective and respectful dialogue attitude by adjusting the communication mode according to the interlocutor (peers, teachers, administrative staff, socio-professional environment) and demonstrating listening skills, empathy, and assertiveness.
 
Learning outcomes (CEFR)
Listening comprehension (B2)
  • Understand main ideas of complex presentations, both in terms of content and style, on concrete or abstract topics. 
  • understand extended speech and follow complex lines of argument in a familiar or concrete topic, provided the topic is delivered in standard language or a familiar variety. 
  • comprehend discussion techniques used in their field of specialisation.
 
Reading comprehension (B2)
  • read with a large degree of independence, adapting reading style and speed to different texts and purposes.
  • quickly select relevant reference sources and efficiently use a broad, active reading vocabulary.
  • May still encounter difficulties with less frequent idiomatic expressions.
 
Speaking (B2)
  • provide a clear and detailed description and presentation on a wide range of topics related to their field of interest, developing and supporting their ideas with supporting points and relevant examples.
 
Oral interaction (B2)
  • interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.
  • highlight the personal significance of events and experiences, express opinions persuasively, and respond to complex arguments with clear, structured reasoning.
 
Written production (B2)
  • write clear, detailed texts on a variety of subjects related to their field of interest. Can synthesise, evaluate, and present information and arguments from multiple sources.
 
Written interaction (B2)
  • relay information and express viewpoints in writing, adapting their style and register to the recipient
 
General Linguistic Competence (B2)
  • Has a sufficient range of language to provide clear descriptions, express viewpoints, and develop arguments without obvious searching for words, demonstrating control over complex sentence structures.
 
Content
This course has a receptive and productive component:
  • reading of texts on various current topics, using appropriate reading strategies;
  • analysis and explanation of texts in class;
  • general or more detailed understanding of video programmes;
  • research project and creation of a press book, using relevant media sources, on a chosen subject;
  • preparation and presentation in groups of 3 or 4 of an oral interactive discussion (‘Your Turn to Teach’);
  • recording of a short video on a theme seen in class (opinion) – 45 h-course only
  • vocabulary and language structures are practised and developed via speaking activities (role plays, interviews, mini-debates, conversation in small groups).
  • Grammar (B2 level)
  • vocabulary: false friends and common mistakes (Vocab 911)
Teaching methods
  • Learning takes place in context using authentic texts and videos.
  • Reading and listening comprehension are exploited orally and in writing.
  • Speaking is exercised via debates, role-plays and talks in groups, and a spontaneous discussion on the process of writing the pressbook and its content.
  • Writing is developed through the writing of Research cards (one of them in class without access to IA) and the creation of a Pressbook.
  • Vocabulary and grammatical structures are revised both orally and in writing.
  • Common vocabulary mistakes and false friends are revised via the Moodle platform (self-study)
  • Journaling (45-h course only)
Evaluation methods
Continuous assessment throughout the course is as follows:
For the 45-hour course (Bac 2 students)
  • 2 tests on given grammar points and vocabulary related to the texts and videos seen in class, and on the frequent vocabulary mistakes (Vocab 911) = 25 %
  • Research project consisting of a ‘file’ (press book) to be built up throughout the course, containing min. 4 sources ( audio, video, articles, song, etc) on a chosen topic (templates to be filled in and evaluated) = 15 % (5 % for an in-class research card)
  • Interactive group discussion = 20 %
  • Recording of a short video (opinion time) = 10 %
  • Attendance and active participation = 10 %
  • Oral exam ( presentation of press book and discussion of research subject with the teacher) = 20 %
Other information
This course is a 45-hour course  for the Bac2 students (2 hours in Q1 and 2 hours in Q2 until Week 8).
Teaching materials
  • Syllabus LANGS1203 General English for HUSO-SOCA-SPOL (B2 level - 45 hours)
Faculty or entity


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Bachelor in Human and Social Sciences

Bachelor in Sociology and Anthropology

Bachelor in Political Sciences: General