Course structure
Why study a language class?
Taking an evening language class at King’s will enable you to enhance the knowledge you already have of a foreign language, or to discover and become proficient in a new one. By studying a foreign language, you will:
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Prepare yourself for work or study abroad or in a multinational organisation
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Increase research opportunities and enhance your career prospects
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Broaden your horizons and learn to communicate internationally
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Study in a fun and interactive environment, using the latest technologies
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Improve your analytical skills and adaptability, and enhance your creativity
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Develop expertise in essential skills such as explaining, persuading and negotiating
What are the evening courses like?
Course timings
Classes are 1.5 hours, one evening per week. Most levels run for three terms with ten classes per term.
Course Structure
The classes are designed to emphasize communication and for this reason, tuition is conducted as far as possible in the target language. They rely on the integration of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, as well as giving you an essential cultural awareness of the language being studied. This means that the courses are a particularly good preparation for the real-life contexts in which you would expect to find yourself using the foreign language.
Class Size
There is a maximum of 16 students per class. While many of our beginners’ classes can be full, higher level classes tend to run with fewer students.
Course Materials
A prescribed textbook should be purchased for most classes and an accompanying exercise book may also be recommended. These are listed in the course descriptions and can be found in specialist bookshops. The teacher will also supply a variety of other printed and audio-visual materials.
Teachers
There is a strong tradition of excellence in teaching at the Modern Language Centre, which has been recognised by the award of several grants to fund the development of new and innovative elearning schemes. Our teachers are highly-skilled professionals experienced in identifying and responding to students’ needs at all levels. They are all native speakers, or have native fluency in the language they teach. They have professional experience of teaching their language specialism, are regularly appraised and have in-depth knowledge of language teaching methodology.
Attendance
Please try to attend all classes and arrive promptly. It is your responsibility to be available for the duration of the course according to the timetable agreed at the beginning of term, and for any necessary variation to the timetable, which may be agreed in advance with your group. If you know in advance that you cannot attend a class, please inform your teacher, and ask a fellow student to retain a copy of any handouts for you.
Location
The majority of our classes take place on the Strand Campus of King’s College. In very rare cases, due to room restrictions, some classes may take place on the Waterloo Campus.