This course is not simply about polishing your spoken English. Before we know how to speak, we need to learn how to listen. Furthermore, communication is not just about spoken words but also about body language, eye contact, gesticulation, and for forth. This course develops from the two principles: expressing your thoughts and understanding other voices. We will explore various forms of speaking through pair and small-group activities, so you will test your ability of public speaking in activities such as role play, impromptu speech and debate, poetry recital, and group projects. Participation and attendance are obligatory because part of your performance will be assessed by other members. You are expected to form a close rapport with other classmates because many projects and assignments are also group-based.

The design of the weekly schedule is based on the opinions and preferences of the class. Therefore, the syllabus attempts to accommodate the general interest of the majority of the students, who collectively contribute to the making of this course. Apart from the in-class discussions and free talks, for this class, recording certain reflections on the activities of the week in the journal (about a page, single-spaced, every week) is an essential component. By the end of the semester or even the school year, the students will see the progress, and such a record, in many years to come, will be the best souvenir highlighting the carefree, happy moments of the first-year college life. This will also be the best gift of this course for you.