This course is designed to introduce NTU students to university-level English. It will train students to listen to English news reports gleaned from leading American and British news publications. It will also guide students to read, discuss and respond to critical essays analyzing five popular literary genres including romance, horror, detective, science fiction and fantasy. Students will have the chance to apply the language skills they have learned through ten listening transcriptions, two essays, one individual presentation and several in-class discussions, and near the end of this course, through a group presentation in the form of a micro film. Students are expected to attend regularly, to contribute with compassion and creativity, and to show commitment to course assignments and group activities. The course attempts to facilitate English learning beyond technicality—as means to think critically about how contemporary popular culture sheds light on the study of the humanities.