English for Economists

English for Economists is an all-new course that combines English language input (podcasts, videos, articles, language briefings, peer presentations, discussions, etc.) and output (presentations, seminar contributions, writing) with a wide variety of class activities (case studies, debates, brainstorming, mind-mapping, SWOT analyses, etc.) 

On the one hand, we will delve deeply into the vocabulary and linguistic structures from the field and make the leap from general English to the more complex academic and professional language you will need in the future. 

Our areas of specialist interest will include: 

• basic concepts in economics
• government spending
• recessions, depressions and bubbles
• international trade
• banking and finance
• economics and the developing world
• economics and agriculture
• public welfare and healthcare economics
• change in the labour market.

On the other hand, we will learn about and practice important language skills such as note-taking, understanding spoken information, leading and taking part in discussions, evaluating and summarizing sources, media monitoring, and communicating figures and trends. We will focus in particular depth on two of the most important communication skills: presenting information in person, and communicating ideas and arguments in writing.

This course has two principal objectives:

1. to introduce you to a broad spectrum of input in your discipline in the English language and to develop your understanding and use of the specialist language you will encounter as you move forward.
2. to equip you with the various skills that are vital to communicating successfully in English and are increasingly demanded both by employers and academic institutions offering English-taught Master programmes in the field.

Throughout the course, we will be thinking explicitly about learning objectives in connection with the use of digital tools, and there will be an emphasis on critical thinking and creative skills.

In presenza

English for Economists – which should not be confused with Business English – is taught over one semester in the second or third year. It is suitable for students who have already achieved a good intermediate level of general English, and access to the course is dependent on students producing a B2-level certificate in general English (or two Market Leader/Business English certificates at level 2 or 3) BEFORE the first lesson. Further information on what certificates are accepted is available on the website of the Laboratorio di lingue moderne (LLM). 

As with all language courses, students will be expected to devote a fair amount of private study time to developing their vocabulary, filling individual grammar gaps and doing assigned reading/research and group work.

There is no coursebook. The lecturer will provide material on iCorsi as the course progresses.

Assessment is by final examination at the end of the semester. Coursework will include giving an in-person group presentation and producing one set of seminar discussion notes. As with all skills-based courses, in-person attendance and engagement is important, and will be incentivised with extra exam credit.

Passing this course confers 6 ECTs AND the B2+ English level required to graduate from the Bachelor programme.