Session 1 on 09/29/2015: Learner Autonomy English for Specific Purposes Orientation

Summary: There was an orientation to the course explaining the documents below, including what is expected of you in the sessions and how you can excel and get the most out of this course to improve your English skills. You also learned that our class will focus on positive self-talk and we can take a look at what we say to ourselves that might not be in our best interests. This class should help you plan your learning in English and be kind to yourself at the same time.

Written Final Paper (20%), Class Participation (15%), Weekly Reflection Reports (15%)     

Documents: 4-skills cover log, ESP1 4-Skills Log Instructions, ESP1b Syllabus, Saitama U. 4-Skills Log Sheet, Weekly Reflection Report

Homework due on 10/06/2015: 

1. Complete an entry of self-study in your Four-Skills Log. The entry should be one hour in length or longer and please answer the questions completely: 

Which day, which practice task and how long?  Reflections: What did you do? How long for? What did you notice? How did you feel? New speaking or listening goals?

Note: A sudden change in policy in the ERC on October 1st requires me to check out your resources for you, because student borrowing in the ERC is closed:(. I am free in my office 3rd periods on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday for me to borrow resources for you to use for your 4-skills logs. Apologies for the inconvenience this causes!

2. Please read and take 1 to 2 pages of notes in key words only on this article by The Mayo Clinic Staff: Positive thinking: Stop negative self-talk to reduce your stress . For the students who are absent there is a copy of this article for you in the box on Stacey's office door marked ESP1 Tuesday 2nd. Samples of note taking are also provided in class.