Spring 2015 Freshman English, second semester

Welcome back to the second semester of FE. I look forward to another chance to improve our English skills, not just in writing and reading, but also in speaking. Henry has graciously agreed to be our TA again, and I thank him for a job well done, although I am not entirely certain at this point that we will be able to hire him. Nevertheless, he and I will map out a plan for this semester and most likely overhaul the required assignments to include not just writing tasks. I will continue to give you handouts in English and lecture on various topics that may pique your curiosity in the first 2 hours and let Henry take over the last hour with his interesting activities. This semester I want more feedback and input from you. I encourage you to choose reading materials for the lectures. Alternatively, you can suggest topics or areas that you find interesting to read. Since you are mostly liberal arts majors, you may want to pick a poem or two or even a short story. And if you are not a big fan of lectures, we can always switch to a more interactive format for our meetings. Although you cannot count on me to sing or act, Henry is a born actor. The aim of this course remains unchanged. Our goal is to help you develop authentic English skills, skills that may make a difference in your career down the road. I am very happy with your performance last semester and want you to feel better rewarded this time. If there is anything I really want to change, I want more oral participation from you. I will make sure that I give all of you equal attention, and that each of you will have a chance to answer my questions in class. Again, I emphasize regular attendance not just because it is mandated by university law, but more because the classroom is where education truly takes place, and if you are absent, you forfeit your chances. If you can maintain a solid attendance record, you can pretty much expect the same generous grades from me, based on the same formula we used last semester. (A copy of last semester's Course Description is attached below for your reference.) Remember, after this semester, you will not be entitled to virtually free, high-quality English lessons, and you will have to pay less qualified people to revise your essays and writing drafts. As always, your feedback and comments are most welcome. You can reach me by sending me an email (drleung@ntu.edu.tw) or via Henry, assuming that he will stay with us (we will find out in March. I wish all of you a pleasant and productive semester so you can enjoy your summer break without feeling guilty. Cheers!