Introductory unit - Exploring the topics

This is an introductory unit, intended to give you a first ‘experience’ of the topics in your syllabus as well as the way classroom work will be organized. In fact, this unit is meant to give you a say, before we get started. Your suggestions are very important and will be incorporated whenever possible.
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YOUR final TASK
The class will be divided in groups and each group will prepare a poster on a specific topic. Please refer to your Group’s instructions. All members will participate in the making and the presentation of the final product.
Here is an OVERVIEW of this unit:
- Group work : students’ suggestions (general)
- Presentation by the teacher – syllabus, classroom organization, required materials, assessment - Some ideas for VOCABULARY RECORDS on the topics and your PORTFOLIO
- Collaboration skills game
- Group work: what you already know about the themes/topics of the syllabus and what you would like to find out:
o Brainstorming
o Exploratory ‘research’
o Asking new (research) questions
o Presenting final product (posters)
OBJECTIVES
To inform the students of the key areas/skills of the syllabus (Year Plan/Assessment)
To foster student participation (planning, classroom organization, researching)
To promote a collaborative classroom environment
Some MATERIALS
Grammars
Intermediate Language Practice, M. Vince, Macmillan ELT
Grammarway 3 (intermediate), V. Evans, Express Publishing
Oxford Practice Grammar Intermediate –J. Eastwood , Oxford
Grammarway 4 ,V. Evans, Express Publishing
Advanced Language Practice, M. Vince, Macmillan ELT
Grammar Practice for Upper-Intermediate Students, E.Walker, Longman
Dictionaries
The free dictionary online
The Wiktionary
Longman Dictionary of English Language and Culture
Oxford Student's Dictionary
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary

REMEMBER:
- Your work will be collected for correction. Write drafts that are readable.
- Start organizing your materials in a binder/folder. It will become your portfolio.
- Some(one) in the group must be responsible for leading the group discussions, keeping track of time, making sure everybody is participating, etc.
- Start your individual LOG/Learning Journal: a brief reflection on this first unit and your plans.
ENJOY YOUR WORK