English for Economists I (ECΟ_1Ξ01Ν)

Εnglish for Economists I

Prerequisite:

An intermediate (FCE) level of the English language is required  in order  to successfully attend  and  receive a passing grade  for the course. Students with any type of certificate of proficiency in the English language are not exempt from the course.

Objectives and content:

 The aim of this introductory course is to familiarize students with the English language used in the field of Economics. A series of   authentic or  adapted  texts  from  Economics university textbooks, periodicals and   web-pages  are read and discussed in class for  comprehension , vocabulary acquisition and development. Students learn  to read and describe  tables, charts and  diagrams related to economics. Complex grammar and syntax  found  in the reading selections is explained and practiced . The selected texts  are drawn mostly from  Microeconomics.

Topics include:

Observation and Theory in Economics  - Definitions of Economics

Scarcity - Choice ?Efficiency -Constraints and Costs

The Logic of Economics- Positive and Normative Economics

Facts Evidence and Data- The Language of Statistics

Micro vs Macroeconomics -Economic Systems

Elements of an Economic System - Production-Factors of Production

Demand and Supply-Equilibrium-Shifts vs. Movements

Graphs and Diagrams - Interpreting Graphs

Utility

Markets - Interrelated Markets - Flexible Labour Markets

Monopoly and Oligopoly - Kinked Demand Curve

Students   practice listening comprehension and note taking by  listening to and watching introductory  lectures (e-lessons) given at Departments of Economics of well known English speaking Universities. The material of these lectures is included in the final exam .

Students are advised to attend classes and encouraged to participate  in classroom activities.

At the end of the course students should be able to comprehend advanced level economics related  texts and determine the meaning of academic vocabulary in context. They should  also understand and have the  language skills to describe   tables,  charts and diagrams related to economics.

Learning Tools:

All learning material can be found  in e-class:

https://eclass.upatras.gr/  

Assessment:

The final grade is based on the final exam consisting of  different  types of questions such as: true/false statements , multiple choice questions, cloze passages, term definitions,  text  comprehension  and  vocabulary questions   and  a   short  essay  question.

Regular attendance is taken into consideration. There is also the possibility of an optional assignment for final grade improvement.