Welcoming first year DFLL students to university, this year-long course helps students develop a range of skills for success in their academic careers and beyond. OT I builds upon a presumed basic English fluency to train students’ oral communication and comprehension skills, from asking questions to developing a sustained argument, and from small talk to academic presentations. Combining instructor-led and self-guided exercises, collaborative and individual work, spontaneous in-class practice and prepared presentations, the course is designed to help students establish a broad foundation of speaking competency to prepare them for Oral Training II.