The Academic Speaking course develops students’ skills and confidence in speaking persuasively on a variety of academic topics in the areas of Humanities, Business Studies and the Social Sciences. Students will be expected to undertake secondary research on their chosen topics and thereby develop their ability to use resources appropriately and ethically. Being engaged analytically and in-depth with their topics, students offer constructive criticism of one another’s speeches. Critical and analytical thinking will be emphasized at all times. Through regular speeches, analysis, and peer as well as instructor feedback on their research and ultimately on their topics, students will improve their language proficiency and ability to argue effectively and persuasively within an academic context, and to handle evidence and statistical data. Class activities will take the form of discussions and speeches.