If English is not your first language you are able, or we may advise you, to take one of the following English language modules to support you during your studies. You can take this as a 15-credit module each year so your language support is available at no extra cost to you and your language learning counts towards your final degree.

The Language Services Unit offers the following English language support to non-native speakers of English:

• Online English language test
• Diagnostic English language assessment upon arrival. The results from this assessment will determine what level of modular support you may be offered
• Credit bearing English language modules
• Drop-in academic English support sessions
• Upskilling for assignments

Online English language test

If you are thinking about studying at Anglia Ruskin University and would like to check that your English language level is sufficient for your chosen programme of study, we offer an online English language test.

Please see the document below for more information. A new version of the practice test will be available online shortly.

Diagnostic English language assessment

International students will be required, when they first register at Anglia Ruskin University, to take a diagnostic English language test.

The test is designed to assist Anglia Ruskin University in its provision of on-going learning support to such students, including provision of an English language module during the first year of their period of study.

Credit bearing English language modules

If English is not your first language, you are able (or we may advise you, based on the results of your diagnostic English language assessment) to take one of the following English language modules to support you during your studies.

These are 15-credit modules so your language support is available at no extra cost to you, and counts towards your final degree.

• English Advanced 1-4

These modules aim to improve communicative competence in English, using authentic, contemporary materials. The areas of linguistic competence covered include grammatical and lexical skills as well as oral and aural proficiency and extended writing skills. There is an emphasis on student centred activities, with active participation in class and team work to develop speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Students will also be guided in independent learning via the language centre and the library.

• English for Study 1 & 2

These modules aim to support students in their academic writing, note taking, and presentation abilities. They develop both students' grammatical accuracy and their ability to extract key points from a variety of written and spoken texts. They further require students to demonstrate increasing awareness of essay planning and the importance of summary writing and referencing skills in academic essays and presentations. The modules consist of a variety of activities including group debates and discussions, reading comprehension exercises from authentic texts and academic journals, and the development of discussion skills to ensure students are able to contribute in both seminar and tutorial discussions.

• Business English 1-6

These modules aim to support students who are seeking a career in the business world. Examples of the content of these modules include: specialist business vocabulary, revision of essential grammar in a business context, increasing reading speed and comprehension of business texts, learning how to write accurately using the correct format and appropriate register for a given business context, case studies of local companies, and giving effective presentations. There are opportunities to work individually and as part of a team, and students will develop their listening and speaking skills by active participation in the class.

Drop-in academic English language support sessions

If you are a student with English as a second language and need support with any of the following:

• Academic vocabulary
• Presentations in English
• Writing introductions and conclusions
• Referencing
• Grammar and punctuation

...then come along to our free drop-in sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-7pm.

All non-native English-speaking undergraduate and postgraduate students welcome.

Available on both campuses: Marconi Building 203 (Chelmsford) and Helmore 247 (Cambridge).

Upskilling for Assignments

Do you need help in planning and writing essays?

Then come to our 'Upskilling for Assignments' sessions, which include:

• All aspects on how to write effective assignments to achieve higher grades
• Referencing and how to avoid plagiarism
• Undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations
• Presentations

When: From Tuesday 25 September until Thursday 13 December 2012
Where: Anglia Ruskin University Language Centre (Helmore 247)

Group sessions: Tuesdays 1-2pm and repeated on Thursdays 1-2pm (No need to book just turn up)

Individual sessions: Tuesdays and Thursdays 2-3pm (Booking advised by email or come along on the day)

All ALSS undergraduates and postgraduates welcome.

For more information please email Rebecca Rowntree.