Ready for University

Vision

It is a university preparation course in which English is both what students learn and the means by which they learn to think academically and study independently.

Language

The English students need to understand, express and communicate ideas.

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Thinking

The ability to question, analyse, evaluate and develop arguments.

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Academic Independence

The skills to research, write, collaborate and manage university learning.

The course integrates Academic English with critical thinking, academic reading and writing, research skills, information literacy and academic communication. Students learn to analyse texts, evaluate evidence, compare perspectives, construct coherent arguments, write academic essays, use sources responsibly and communicate their ideas effectively in written and spoken English.

Through practical, progressively challenging tasks, students develop effective study strategies, independent learning habits and the ability to take greater responsibility for their academic progress. 

“A supreme principle of teaching is to ignite curiosity that leads to purposeful research, resulting in discoveries that bring meaning.” (Martin Zubko)

The course emphasises the integrated use of language, knowledge and reasoning, preparing students to engage confidently and critically with the demands of university study.

Core Course Essentials

These seven areas provide a coherent foundation for university study: students develop their English alongside the thinking and study practices through which they will use it, rather than through disconnected language exercises alone.

1) Academic English

Develop the vocabulary, grammar, sentence structures, academic register and language functions needed to express ideas precisely, compare perspectives, qualify claims and construct coherent arguments.

2) Academic Reading and Information Literacy

Read academic and other informational texts strategically; identify main ideas, arguments and supporting evidence; distinguish fact from opinion; evaluate source reliability; and synthesise information from multiple texts.

3) Academic Writing and Essay Skills

Develop a clear thesis, plan and structure essays, write coherent paragraphs, summarise and paraphrase sources, integrate evidence, reference appropriately and revise written work in response to feedback.

4) Critical and Creative Thinking

Question assumptions, identify bias, assess the strength of arguments, compare competing explanations, recognise logical weaknesses, consider alternative perspectives and reach reasoned conclusions.

5) Research and Source Skills

Formulate research questions, locate relevant information, distinguish reliable evidence from weak or misleading claims, take organised notes, acknowledge sources and use information ethically.

6) Academic Communication

Participate in discussions and seminars, ask relevant questions, explain complex ideas, give presentations, respond constructively to challenges and engage respectfully with different viewpoints.

7) Independent Learning and University Study Skills

Develop effective note-taking, time management, task planning, self-assessment, digital research and revision strategies, building the confidence to learn independently and take responsibility for academic progress.

Course Delivery

The course is delivered entirely online, making it accessible to students from around the world, regardless of their geographical location. 

This flexible learning format enables students from diverse backgrounds to develop their Academic English, critical thinking and university study skills in an inclusive and internationally accessible learning environment.