Linguaskill Business measures the ability of non-native speakers to communicate in English in everyday business environments. The course is an excellent choice for students who plan to use English for business or the workplace. Students receive pre-tests and the official test is offered at the college every 4 weeks.Linguaskill Business is a replacement of BULATS and is a reliable way of assessing the language ability of employees or trainees. VanWest College is the only official test provider in Canada.Cambridge English Test Assessment (part of Cambridge University)Quick Info Level: Pre-AdvancedLessons: 30 per weekLesson: 50 minutesStart Dates: Every MondayLength: 2+ weeksAge: 13+ years old Linguaskill Business – Advanced FOCUS Linguaskill Business Advanced is a course which is designed to prepare students to challenge the Linguaskill Business test, which is an internationally recognized Business Language Test, designed and administrated by Cambridge University in England. As taught at VanWest College, the course exposes students to a wide variety of authentic Business English materials. Although the course maintains a strong focus on test-preparation, the course is highly suitable for any student who wants a deeper understanding and practice with modern Business English.The course includes reading and listening skills, writing practice for emails, letters and reports, models for up‐to‐date business language, grammar and vocabulary exercises to train students to avoid common mistakes, role plays of common business scenarios, and ample speaking practice, from solo presentations to group discussions.ELECTIVES Communication 100 This low-beginner level course focuses on necessary oral communication skills and is designed for students who have little practice in spoken English. Students will practice essential, real-life communication functions (speaking and listening) through the use of themes and practical scenarios that allow participants to start learning and practicing basic English phrases used in everyday situations. Material is presented in audio and video format, and ample class time is given to students to practice what they have learned. Pronunciation 101 Individuals will study and practice the essential aspects of pronunciation. The first level focuses on sound production and correction. The students will learn to form and contrast vowel sounds such as /iy/ and /e/, and to distinguish the sounds of consonants such as /p/ and /b/ and /t/ and /d/.Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to distinguish, form, and recognize the different English vowel and consonant sounds. Grammar 101 This class is an introduction to basic grammatical features that students need to understand to communicate effectively when writing and speaking. Students will learn and review morphological features while focusing on some topics that model correct grammar usage. Language production centers on speaking and writing, which allows students to get the feedback they need from their teachers. Writing 101 This class is an introduction to writing skills that you need to communicate effectively in English on familiar topics. You will learn grammar and phrases required to perform different functions such as writing basic sentences and paragraphs as well as writing paragraphs for description, opinion, and narration. The focus of the course is the publishing information for others to see and hear. There are constant correction and feedback from instructors, who will model the writing structures which are taught. Speaking 101 This class is an introduction to speaking skills that you need to communicate effectively in English for short discussions and presentations on familiar topics. You will learn grammar and phrases required to perform different functions such as making introductions, describing habits, and expressing preferences. The focus of the course is the reporting of information to others and is clearly understood, so this is not mainly a conversation class. There are constant correction and feedback from instructors, who will model the speaking structures which are taught. Listening 101 This class is an introduction to listening strategies that learners need to understand the message and communicate effectively in English on familiar topics. Students will learn essential phrases, vocabulary, and pronunciation needed to comprehend and respond to different functions such as describing present and past activities, making plans, evaluating situations, and expressing preferences. The focus of the course is the accurate reporting and use of information that has been heard. There are constant correction and feedback from instructors, who will model the speaking structures which are taught. Communication 101 This beginner-level course focuses on essential, real-life communication functions (speaking and listening) through the use of themes and practical scenarios that allow participants to continue learning and practicing basic English phrases used in everyday situations. Material is presented in audio and video format, and ample class time is given to students to practice what they have learned. Cultural aspects, such as non-verbal behaviour and cross-cultural communication, are also absorbed in context. Communication 102 This fast-paced, high-interest course continues to focus on essential, real-life communication functions (speaking and listening) through the use of themes and practical scenarios that allow participants to learn and practice useful English phrases used in everyday situations. Material is presented in audio and video format, and ample class time is given to students to practice what they have learned. Cultural aspects, such as non-verbal behaviour and cross-cultural communication, are also absorbed in context. Critical Response 102 The primary goal of Critical Response 102 is to develop a balance of speaking and critical thinking skills through the mediums of video and discussion. Students will learn new vocabulary associated with weekly themes, explore relevant topics that reflect on their lives, and examine varying world views and differences between cultures. Learners will build upon social skills to help shy students share their opinions with a group of trusted friends. Grammar 102 This is a class for intermediate students who need to continue developing the basic grammar they need to understand to communicate effectively when writing and speaking. Students will learn and review grammatical features while focusing on some topics which model correct grammar usage. Language production centers on speaking and writing, which allows students to get the feedback they need from their teachers. Writing 102 Reading & Writing 102 introduces students to the process of paragraph writing and teaches them how to generate, develop, and organize their ideas. Exercises include group and pair work as well as the relevant study of reading skills, grammar, punctuation, and capitalization, providing comprehensive practice in writing process and development. Speaking 102 This class builds on Speaking 101 and continues the speaking skills that you need to communicate effectively in English for short discussions and presentations on familiar topics. You will learn more complex grammar and phrases required to perform different functions such as making introductions, describing past experiences, and expressing certainty and regret. The focus of the course is the reporting of information to others and is clearly understood, so this is not mainly a conversation class. There are constant correction and feedback from instructors, who will model the speaking structures which are taught. Listening 102 This class continues to expand on listening strategies that learners need to understand the message and communicate effectively in English on familiar topics. Students will learn essential phrases, vocabulary, and pronunciation needed to comprehend and respond to different functions such as describing present and past activities, making plans, evaluating situations, and expressing preferences. The focus of the course is the accurate reporting and use of information that has been heard. There are constant correction and feedback from instructors, who will model the speaking structures which are taught. Vocabulary 102 Focus on Vocabulary 1: Bridging Vocabulary teaches mid-frequency vocabulary preparing students for the kinds of words found in novels, newspapers, films, and social and workplace settings. It focuses on a variety of subject areas, such as the mind, design, celebrity, and the environment. To help students reach a fuller understanding of the new vocabulary, they focus on word meanings, word families, and collocation. Students will learn definitions for new vocabulary and how to identify the parts of speech and the various forms. Synonyms and idioms will also be covered, as well as general grammatical knowledge in speech and writing. Linguaskill Business 102 Students will study modern business examples to see, understand, and use key business concepts and vocabulary in context. This class expands business knowledge and develops English skills for typical business tasks. The text is 'Business Benchmark,' a BULATS course from Cambridge University. Materials will also include current business news and weekly BULATS practice tests. Communication 103 Students practice listening and speaking activities and are exposed to grammar for speaking and vocabulary study. Students will develop their communicative competence through directed learning activities. In addition to improving listening and speaking skills, reading and writing are also reinforced through a wide variety of dictation techniques. Topics include provocative news items and problem-solving, which encourage classroom discussion, writing, and follow-up research activities. The dictations are a springboard for discussion in which students are encouraged to use the language they have just learned. Grammar 103 This course is designed for advanced students who wish to expand on their previous knowledge of English grammar and want to begin using more complex and sophisticated language structures. Students will learn and review grammatical features while focusing on some topics which model correct grammar usage. Language production centers on speaking and writing, which allows students to get the feedback they need from their teachers. Writing 103 This class helps students develop their ability to write effective paragraphs and essays in English. They will learn phrases and strategies needed to write articles and essays dealing with persuasion, problem-solution, compare-contrast, and cause-effect. They will also apply these skills to compose an essay that combines aspects of two or more essay styles. The focus of the course is the publishing information for others to see and hear. There are constant correction and feedback from instructors, who will model the writing structures which are taught. Critical Response 103 Students will explore one documentary per week. Video documentaries are a springboard to encourage critical thinking on non-sensitive issues, expand vocabulary, and increase listening and pronunciation skills at an advanced level culminating in a written response. Written responses will be completed in-class at the end of the week. Writing includes such critical skills as paraphrasing, summarizing, taking the opposite viewpoint, etc. The focus of this class is to develop critical thinking skills while reinforcing and developing speaking, listening, pronunciation, and vocabulary. Digital Communication 103 This course emphasizes natural, impromptu speech and will significantly improve speaking confidence in stressful English speaking situations. Students will practice and record unscripted weekly video journals on everyday high-interest topics. Through the use of activities using video and social media, student's pronunciation and fluency will improve while learning new vocabulary, idioms and daily expressions. Journals are uploaded weekly, and students will receive direct teacher and group feedback. Learners should bring their iPhone and be prepared to speak –speak – speak! English For Presentation (Public Speaking) 103 Do you worry about speaking in groups, meetings, or in front of an audience? You are not alone! This English for Presentation (Public Speaking) will be the perfect course for you!The ability to speak in meetings and the public is an essential advantage in today's competitive world. Don't let lack of confidence hold you back! English For Marketing & Sales 103 Take your sales and marketing skills to the next level! This course will look at several aspects of marketing and sales, including deciding and reaching your market. You will examine examples of successful campaigns, and listen to different perspectives on how to help your product or company rise above the rest. There will be plenty of time in class to practice your sales and marketing skills! English For Social Media 103 The world is connecting through social media, and it's essential to feel comfortable with how it works. Everybody is posting their experiences and thoughts on social mediathese days. Friends and employers of the future will be looking through your social media accounts, and what they see will give them an idea of who you are! Make sure they see your very best self. English For Engineering 103 Some topics will be covered, including learning language specific to civil, electrical and mechanical engineering. With your engineering background, you will benefit from the opportunity to discuss topics such as describing technical problems and suggesting solutions. You will also enhance your communication skills through ampleopportunities to listen and speak in class.