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Practical Language Activities

The English Language Centre organizes a lively range of practical language activities (PLAs) from Week 3 to Week 13 of each semester except during study breaks.

PLAs provide opportunities for students to practise using English in conversation or discussion with English speakers. Some activities also provide opportunities to practise reading and listening for input into later discussions.

Through regular and active participation in timetable, students should be able to:
  • Develop their fluency
  • Express their opinions
  • Respond appropriately to the opinions of others
  • Support their views with reference to personal experience or general knowledge
  • Expand their vocabulary
  • Reflect on their learning
Activities take place in the Language Lounge, ELC classrooms and the multi-purpose room (MPR) in the Self-Access Centre. Students can consult the weekly timetable and simply drop in to the following activities.
  • ELC cinema
  • Communicative Games
  • Reading Club
  • Conversation Club
  • Current Affairs
  • Current Sports News
  • Film Club
  • Philosophy Club
  • Thinking Outside the Box
  • Travelling & Dining Club
     

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) require weekly attendance from Week 2 to Week 11. Waiting lists are kept when the groups are full.

The ELC also runs an English Language Mentoring Scheme and a summer reading programme.

Reward Scheme

Students who attend 10 or more PLAs or Special Interest Group sessions can get a certificate under the PLA Reward Scheme. Interested students should obtain a PLA passport from the ELC general office.

Feedback

Feedback forms for PLAs are available in the Language Lounge. Students with comments or suggestions can also contact the PLA Coordinator, Jessica Lee.