Freshman English: Readings and Lab
Fall 2015 and Spring 2016
College of Science

Mondays 外教 101, class periods 3/4, 10:20am-12:10pm,
Wednesdays 新生大樓 403, class periods 1/2, 8:10-10:00am

Professor Karen Steffen Chung 史嘉琳
E-mail: karchung@ntu.edu.tw
Homepage: http://homepage.ntu.edu.tw/~karchung/
(the first Google hit for 'Karen Chung')

TA: Chander Tseng 曾國奕

Email: b01102032@ntu.edu.tw

Total class meetings and important dates Spring 2016
Join: Class Facebook Group
Join:
Facebook: Karen on Ivy League Analytical English
Readings Spring 2016
Mini-conversations

師德文教 CET Hello! E.T. 大師開講 articles on English learning
First 12 CET articles in one single pdf file

Goals of Course
E-mail and miscellaneous requirements
List of somewhat shorter novels for book report assignment
News and podcasts
Grade calculation
Dictionaries
Outside Work
Study aids and resources
Inputting KK/IPA symbols
English TTS (text to speech) (good for proofreading); Chinese TTS
Google in English



Spring 2016: 32 class meetings

     February 2016: 22, 24,
29 (Holiday; no class);
     March:
2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30;
     April:
4 (Holiday; no class), 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27;
     May:
2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30;
     June:
1, 6. 8, 13, 15.
     Final exam: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
新生大樓 403


Class Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/452024954971431/


WEEK ONE
February 22
(1
) Welcome back! and class list.

(2) Final exams will be returned, and we'll go over the answers in class.
      Correct carefully and hand in on Wednesday Feb. 24.

(3) You will submit your class notes every Monday, the same as last semester;
      also notes on one of the remaining CET articles.
      For next Monday, CET 22,
單數、複數、可數、不可數?
讓英文名詞再也難不倒你!(


(4) Warm-up: Kemo Kimo, sung by Nat King Cole
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEHGMcJYang

(5) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new schoolbefore he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      This is a podcast narrated in one variety of Black US English.
      We'll transcribe the entire story, part by part, translate it into Chinese, and read it aloud in class.
      Part 1: Transcribe from the 0:00 to the 1:20 minute point, to: "...right where I was going to sit."

(6) For Wednesday 2/4: Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc), with:
      
      1. Exposition:
The introduction of the story in which characters are introduced, setting is revealed.
      2. Rising Action:
A series of events that complicate matters for the protagonist, creating a rise in the story's suspense or tension.
      3. Climax:
The point of greatest tension in the story and the turning point in the narrative arc from rising action to falling action.
      4. Falling Action:
After the climax, the unfolding of events in a story's plot and the release of tension leading toward the resolution.
      5. Resolution:
The end of the story, typically, in which the problems of the story and of the protagonists are resolved.

      Source:
http://contemporarylit.about.com/od/literaryterms/g/Narrative-Arc-What-Is-Narrative-Arc-In-Literature.htm

February 24
(1)
Hand in corrected final exams.

(2)
Dictation and error identification exercise #1.

(3) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school – before he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      We'll go over your transcriptions of the story
from the 0:00 to the 1:20 point.
      For Wednesday 3/2: Continue transcribing the podcast
      from the 1:20 to the 2:17 point: "...and I sit down."
     
(4) Breaktime music: Piano Man by Billy Joel.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxEPV4kolz0
      With lyrics:
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEprNGh3FRo

      It's nine o'clock on a Saturday
      The regular crowd shuffles in
      There's an old man sitting next to me
      Making love to his tonic and gin

      He says, "Son, can you play me a memory
      I'm not really sure how it goes
      But it's sad and it's sweet
      And I knew it complete
      When I wore a younger man's clothes."

      Sing us a song you're the piano man
      Sing us a song tonight
      Well we're all in the mood for a melody
      And you've got us feeling alright

      Now John at the bar is a friend of mine
      He gets me my drinks for free
      And he's quick with a joke or to light up your smoke
      But there's someplace that he'd rather be

      He says, "Bill, I believe this is killing me."
      As a smile ran away from his face
      "Well, I'm sure that I could be a movie star
      If I could get out of this place."

     
Now Paul is a real estate novelist
      Who never had time for a wife
      And he's talking with Davy, who's still in the Navy
      And probably will be for life

     
And the waitress is practicing politics
      As the businessmen slowly get stoned
      Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness
      But it's better than drinking alone

     
Sing us a song you're the piano man
      Sing us a song tonight
      Well we're all in the mood for a melody
      And you've got us feeling alright

     
It's a pretty good crowd for a Saturday
      And the manager gives me a smile
      'Cause he knows that it's me they've been coming to see
      To forget about life for a while

     
And the piano it sounds like a carnival
      And the microphone smells like a beer
      And they sit at the bar and put bread in my jar
      And say, "Man what are you doing here?"

     
Sing us a song you're the piano man
      Sing us a song tonight
      Well we're all in the mood for a melody
      And you've got us feeling alright



WEEK TWO
February 29 (There will be no class on Monday, February 29)

March 2

(1) Corrected final exams and quiz papers will be returned;
      hand in class notes from last week and notes on
CET 22, 單數、複數、可數、不可數?
      讓英文名詞再也難不倒你!(
). For next Monday, read and takes notes on:
      
CET 23, 單數、複數、可數、不可數?讓英文名詞再也難不倒你!(

(2)
Dictation and error identification exercise #2.

(3) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new schoolbefore he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      We'll finish going over your transcripitions for the podcast from
0:00 to the 1:20 point,
       then from the 1:20 to the 2:17 point.
       For next Wednesday: transcribe the podcast from the 2:17 to the 4:00 minute point.

(4) Review Kemo Kimo, sung by Nat King Cole
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEHGMcJYang

(5) Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc)
.

(6) Breaktime music: Tom's Diner by Suzanne Vega
     
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLedFWpF9EA
      Video with lyrics:
 
     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSZ5EGuapIg
      Lyrics:
      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/suzannevega/tomsdiner.html

      I am sitting In the morning at the diner on the corner
      I am waiting at the counter for the man to pour the coffee
      And he fills it only halfway and before I even argue
      He is looking out the window at somebody coming in

      "It is always nice to see you" says the man behind the counter
      To the woman who has come in she is shaking her umbrella
      And I look the other way as they are kissing their hellos
      And I'm pretending not to see them and instead I pour the milk

      I open up the paper; there's a story of an actor
      Who had died while he was drinking – it was no one I had heard of
      And I'm turning to the horoscope and looking for the funnies
      When I'm feeling someone watching me and so I raise my head

      There's a woman on the outside looking inside - Does she see me?
      No she does not really see me 'cause she sees Her own reflection
      And I'm trying Not to notice that she's hitching up her skirt
      And while she's straightening her stockings her hair has gotten wet

      Oh, this rain It will continue through the morning as I'm listening
      To the bells of the cathedral I am thinking of your voice...
      And of the midnight picnic once upon a time before the rain began...
      And I finish up my coffee it's time to catch the train
      Da, da, da, da; da, da da da...


WEEK THREE
March 7
(1) Hand in more carefully corrected final exams;
      make sure to include all mistakes with corrections from all your work
      and quizzes in your class notes;
      hand in class notes from last week and notes on CET 23,

      單數、複數、可數、不可數?
讓英文名詞再也難不倒你!(下).

      For next Monday, read and takes notes on CET 24: 動詞時態三頁通
      (it will be emailed to you) and include with your class notes.

(2)
Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new schoolbefore he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      We'll finish going over as much of your transcripitions for the podcast as possible in class.
      For this coming Wednesday: transcribe the podcast from the 4:00 to the 5:43 minute point.

(3) Breaktime music: People are strange by Jim Morrison and The Doors (with lyrics)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRAr354usf8

      Lyrics:
      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/doors/peoplearestrange.html

      People Are Strange
      by Jim Morrison and The Doors

      People are strange when you're a stranger
      Faces look ugly when you're alone
      Women seem wicked when you're unwanted
      Streets are uneven when you're down

      When you're strange
      Faces come out of the rain
      When you're strange
      No one remembers your name
      When you're strange
      When you're strange
      When you're strange

      People are strange when you're a stranger
      Faces look ugly when you're alone
      Women seem wicked when you're unwanted
      Streets are uneven when you're down

      When you're strange
      Faces come out of the rain
      When you're strange
      No one remembers your name
      When you're strange
      When you're strange
      When you're strange

      When you're strange
      Faces come out of the rain
      When you're strange
      No one remembers your name
      When you're strange
      When you're strange
      When you're strange

(4) Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc)
.

March 9
(1) Dictation and error identification exercise #3.

(2) Breaktime music: People Are Strange by Jim Morrison and The Doors (with lyrics)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRAr354usf8
      Lyrics:
      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/doors/peoplearestrange.html   

(3) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new schoolbefore he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      We'll finish going over as much of your transcripitions for the podcast as possible in class.
     


WEEK FOUR
March 14

(1) Hand in and upload class notes from last week and notes on CET 24: 動詞時態三頁通.
      For next week, read and takes notes on the English Island article: 台灣教室裡找不到的「嘲諷課」(上)
      and include in your class notes to be handed in on Monday.

(2)
Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new schoolbefore he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      We'll finish going over as much of your transcriptions for the podcast as possible in class.
      
(3) Breaktime music:
Perfect, by Alanis Morissette, from the album "Jagged Little Pill"
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_1BQRAkcyc

      Sometimes is never quite enough
      If you're flawless, then you'll win my love
      Don't forget to win first place
      Don't forget to keep that smile on your face

 
    Be a good boy
      Try a little harder
      You've got to measure up
      And make me prouder

      How long before you screw it up
      How many times do I have to tell you to hurry up
      With everything I do for you
      The least you can do is keep quiet

 
    Be a good girl
      You've gotta try a little harder
      That simply wasn't good enough
      To make us proud

      I'll live through you
      I'll make you what I never was
      If you're the best, then maybe so am I
      Compared to him compared to her
      I'm doing this for your own damn good
      You'll make up for what I blew
      What's the problem...why are you crying

     
Be a good boy
      Push a little farther now
      That wasn't fast enough
      To make us happy
      We'll love you just the way you are
      If you're perfect
      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/alanismorissette/perfect.html

(4)  TED talk: Teach girls bravery, not perfection,
       by education activist Reshma Saujani of Girls Who Code
       https://www.ted.com/talks/reshma_saujani_teach_girls_bravery_not_perfection

March 16
(1) There will be no dictation or error identification exercise today
      so that we have more time to go over your transcriptions in class.

(2) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school – before he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus

      We'll review some of the skills and tricks we've learned that can help you
      figure out words you have difficulty hearing clearly when doing a transcription.
      We'll continue checking your transcripitions in class; we should be able to finish
      the entire podcast on Monday 3/21.

(3) Breaktime music: Perfect, by Alanis Morissette 
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_1BQRAkcyc
  

(4) Storytelling exercise
      Prepare an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc)
.
      You'll tell your story in class on Monday 3/21 if there's time;
      otherwise on Wednesday 3/23.



WEEK FIVE
March 21
(1) Hand in and upload class notes from last week and notes on 台灣教室裡找不到的「嘲諷課」(上).
      For next week, read and takes notes on the English Island article: 台灣教室裡找不到的「嘲諷課」(下)
      and include in your class notes to be handed in on Monday.

(2) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school – before he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus
      We'll review some of the skills and tricks we've learned that can help you
      figure out words you have difficulty hearing clearly when doing a transcription.
      We'll try to finish going over your transcripitions in class today.
      We'll read the entire story out loud once the whole piece has been thoroughly corrected.


      Assignment: Practice reading Back of the Bus out loud using the audio file
      and your corrected, error-free transcription; we'll read it aloud in class on Wednesday 3/23;
      you will be graded on your reading.

(3) Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc).

      You will tell your story to the class on Monday, March 28.

(4) Breaktime music: Be My Number Two, by Joe Jackson (wiith lyrics)
   
      Won't you be my number two
      Me and number one are through
      There won't be too much to do
      Just smile when I feel blue


     
And there's not much left of me
      What you get is what you see
      Is it worth the energy
      I leave it up to you

      And if you got something to say to me
      Don't try to lay your funny ways on me
      I know that it's really not fair of me
      But my heart's seen too much action
 
      And every time I look at you
      You'll be who I want you to
      And I'll do what I can do
      To make a dream or two come true
      If you be my
      If you be my number two

      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/joejackson/bemynumbertwo.html

March 23
(1) Dictation and error identification exercise #4.

(2) Read Back of the Bus aloud in class; you will be graded on your oral reading.

(3) Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc).
      Pay special attention to structure and grammarprepare carefully!

      You will tell your story to the class on Monday, March 28.

(4) Breaktime music: Be My Number Two, by Joe Jackson (with lyrics).


WEEK SIX
March 28

(1) Hand in and upload class notes from last week and notes on 台灣教室裡找不到的「嘲諷課」(下)
      For next week, read and takes notes on the English Island article: 老師,請認錯吧!(上),
      and include in your class notes to be handed in on Monday.

(2) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school – before he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus
      We'll continue going over your transcripitions in class today.
      We'll read the entire story out loud once the whole piece has been thoroughly corrected.

      Assignment: Practice reading Back of the Bus out loud using the audio file
      and your corrected, error-free transcription; we'll read it aloud in class on Wednesday 4/6;
      you will be graded on your reading.

(3) Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc).
      You will tell your story to the class on Wednesday, April 6.

(4) Breaktime music:
Father and Son, by Cat Stevens.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdMPuMeTxzY

       (Father)
        It's not time to make a change,
       Just relax, take it easy.
       You're still young, that's your fault,
       There's so much you have to know.
       Find a girl, settle down,
       If you want you can marry.
       Look at me, I am old, but I'm happy.

      
I was once like you are now, and I know that it's not easy,
      To be calm when you've found something going on.
      But take your time, think a lot,
      Why, think of everything you've got.
      For you will still be here tomorrow, but your dreams may not.

      (Son)
      How can I try to explain, when I do he turns away again.
      It's always been the same, same old story.
      From the moment I could talk I was ordered to listen.
      Now there's a way and I know that I have to go away.
      I know I have to go.

      (Father)
      It's not time to make a change,
      Just sit down, take it slowly.
      You're still young, that's your fault,
      There's so much you have to go through.
      Find a girl, settle down,
      if you want you can marry.
      Look at me, I am old, but I'm happy.

      (Son)
      All the times that I cried, keeping all the things I knew inside,
      It's hard, but it's harder to ignore it.
      If they were right, I'd agree, but it's them you know not me.
      Now there's a way and I know that I have to go away.
      I know I have to go.

      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/catstevens/fatherandson.html

(5)  TED talk: Inside the mind of a master procrastinator,
        by Internet writer Ted Urban.

        
http://www.ted.com/talks/tim_urban_inside_the_mind_of_a_master_procrastinator


March 30

(1) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school – before he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus
      We'll finish going over your transcripitions in class today,

      and will read the entire story out loud once the whole piece has been thoroughly corrected.

      Assignment: Practice reading Back of the Bus out loud using the audio file
      and your corrected, error-free transcription; we'll read it aloud in class on Wednesday 3/23;
      you will be graded on your reading.


(2)
Storytelling exercise
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc)
.
      Pay special attention to structure and grammarprepare carefully!
      You will tell your story to the class on Wednesday, April 6 or Monday April 11.

      

(3) Breaktime music: Father and Son, by Cat Stevens.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdMPuMeTxzY



WEEK SEVEN
April 4 (There will be no class on Monday, April 4)

April 6

(1) Read and include notes on 同學,給我一點Feedback in your class notes for Monday 4/11.

(2) Dictation and error identification exercise #5.

(3) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school – before he even arrives..."
      http://snapjudgment.org/back-bus
      First, we'll briefly discuss the story – what the point of the story is, and its emotional impact.
      We'll read the entire story
aloud in class; you will be graded on your reading.


(4) Assignment for Monday 4/11: First, open this video
      of a different version of "Back of the Bus":
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ

      Next, with your corrected transcription in front of you, listen carefully to the video,
      think about it for a while, then answer the following questions:

      1. What is similar about the two versions of the story?
      2. What are the differences between the two versions?
      3. What does the visual body language add to the telling of the story?
      4. Do you notice any difference in the words (e.g. "Yo!)
          and attitude Washington uses in this telling of the story?
          If so, in what part of the story are these differences most pronounced,
          and how do you account for these differences?
      5. Give some examples of where Washington gives more details or examples in the story.
      6. How easy or difficult was it for you to understand almost everything in the new video?

*Optional: Interesting article on Glynn Washington in The Atlantic magazine:
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2013/07/nprs-great-black-hope/309394/

(5) Breaktime music – another song sung a capella
:
      Behind the Wall, by Tracy Chapman
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfeUZJwioio

      Last night I heard the screaming
      Loud voices behind the wall
      Another sleepless night for me
      It won't do no good to call
      The police
      Always come late
      If they come at all (x 2)

      And when they arrive
      They say, "they can't interfere
      With domestic affairs,
      Between a man and his wife."
      And as they walk out the door
      The tears well up in her eyes

      Last night I heard the screaming
      Then a silence that chilled my soul
      I prayed that I was dreaming
      When I saw the ambulance in the road
      And the policeman said,
      "I'm here to keep the peace."
       Will the crowd disperse
      I think we all could use some sleep

      Last night I heard the screaming
      Loud voices behind the wall
      Another sleepless night for me
      It won't do no good to call
      The police
      Always come late
      If they come at all


WEEK EIGHT
April 11
(1) Discuss 同學,給我一點Feedback from English Island; hand in your class notes.
      For next week's notes, make a thorough and well-organized list of all the tricks 撇步
      for getting a transcription right, even when you can't hear every word clearly.
      Include your comments on whether you have used the trick yourself, and if so, how useful it is.
      Add any tricks and resources you discovered yourself that were useful to you.
      Also make a list of problems you still have in transcribing spoken English
      that you haven't been able to solve with the above tricks.

(2) Oral storytelling: Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus
      First, we'll briefly discuss the story – what the point of the story is, and its emotional impact.
      Then we'll read the entire story aloud in class; you will be graded on your reading.
      You will hand in your original effort at transcribing your story, and also your
      hopefully 100% correct transcription.

(3) Video version of "Back of the Bus":
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ

      We'll discuss the following questions - you should have included the answers to these
      in your notes for this week:

      1. What is similar about the two versions of the story?
      2. What are the differences between the two versions?
      3. What does the visual body language add to the telling of the story?
      4. Do you notice any difference in the words (e.g. "Yo!)
          and attitude Washington uses in this telling of the story?
          If so, in what part of the story are these differences most pronounced,
          and how do you account for these differences?
      5. Give some examples of where Washington gives more details or examples in the story.
      6. How easy or difficult was it for you to understand almost everything in the new video?

(4)  Make a full, accurate transcription of the video version of the story; due Monday April 18.

(5) Storytelling exercise
      We'll do this on Wednesday 4/13:
      Prepare to tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc)
.
      Pay special attention to structure and grammarprepare carefully!


(6) Breaktime music:
      American Tune, by Paul Simon
(1973)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3_qyWU3-qQ&nohtml5=False

      Many's the time I've been mistaken
      And many times confused
      Yes, and I've often felt forsaken
      And certainly misused
      But I'm all right, I'm all right
      I'm just weary to my bones
      Still, you don't expect to be
      Bright and bon vivant
      So far away from home, so far away from home

      And I don't know a soul who's not been battered
      I don't have a friend who feels at ease
      I don't know a dream that's not been shattered
      or driven to its knees
      But it's all right, it's all right
      For we've lived so well so long
      Still, when I think of the road we're traveling on
      I wonder what's gone wrong
      I can't help it, I wonder what's gone wrong

      And I dreamed I was dying
      I dreamed that my soul rose unexpectedly
      And looking back down at me
      Smiled reassuringly
      And I dreamed I was flying
      And high up above my eyes could clearly see
      The Statue of Liberty
      Sailing away to sea
      And I dreamed I was flying

      We come on the ship they call the Mayflower
      We come on the ship that sailed the moon
      We come in the age's most uncertain hour
      and sing an American tune
      But it's all right, it's all right
      You can't be forever blessed
      Still, tomorrow's going to be another working day
      And I'm trying to get some rest
      That's all, I'm trying to get some rest

      http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/paulsimon/americantune.html 

      American Tune, sung by both Simon and Garfunkel:
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7K5jpWQpiFI&nohtml5=False

      Piece from J. S. Bach's St. Matthew's Passion ("O Sacred Head, How Wounded")
      that inspired the melody of American Tune (this piece was in turn based
      on an earlier secular piece entitled "Mein G'müt ist mir verwirret" 1562-1612):

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8U9bzT968k&nohtml5=False

       Peter, Paul and Mary also sang a song with the same tune, "Because All Men Are Brothers" (1965):
       https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2VJqT8Lhr4&nohtml5=False

April 13
(1) Dictation and error identification exercise #6.

(2) Storytelling exercise
      Tell an extemporaneous story about something that you experienced
      over winter break. It must have a story arc (also called a narrative arc)
.
      Pay special attention to structure and grammar!


(3) Breaktime music:
      American Tune, by Paul Simon
(1973)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3_qyWU3-qQ&nohtml5=False


WEEK NINE

April 18
(1) Hand in your class notes. Discuss your list of tricks for getting a transcription right,
      even when you can't hear every word clearly.
      Which tricks have you used yourself, and which are the most useful?.
      What additional tricks and resources have you discovered yourself?
      What problems do you still have in transcribing spoken English
      that you haven't been able to solve with the tricks discussed so far?

(2) Storytelling exercise. Pay special attention to structure and grammar!


(3)
Breaktime music:
      Choose and become familiar with two "Breaktime music" songs –
      you will be asked about them in a future test.

      Imagine, by John Lennon
(1971)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwUGSYDKUxU


      Imagine there's no heaven
      It's easy if you try
      No hell below us
      Above us only sky
      Imagine all the people
      Living for today...

      Imagine there's no countries
      It isn't hard to do
      Nothing to kill or die for
      And no religion too
      Imagine all the people
      Living life in peace...

      You may say I'm a dreamer
      But I'm not the only one
      I hope someday you'll join us
      And the world will be as one

 
    Imagine no possessions
      I wonder if you can
      No need for greed or hunger
      A brotherhood of man
      Imagine all the people
      Sharing all the world...

 
    You may say I'm a dreamer
      But I'm not the only one
      I hope someday you'll join us
      And the world will live as one


April 20
(1) Dictation.

(2) Storytelling exercise. Pay special attention to structure and grammar!


(3) New assignment: Cloze exercise for Scene I of the pilot episode of Gilmore Girls. Due Monday April 25.

(4) Breaktime music:
      Imagine, by John Lennon (1971)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwUGSYDKUxU


WEEK TEN
April 25
(1)  Hand in notes and upload to Google Drive.

(2)
 We'll finish the storytelling exercise today.
 
      Pay special attention to structure and grammar!

       Discussion 檢討 of the assignment.

(3) Go over Gilmore Girls pilot, scene 1 cloze exercise.

      
Use the Echo Method to practice all the parts in this scene every day!

(4)
Transcribe the YouTube version of Glynn Washington's "Back of the Bus" story.

(5) Breaktime music:
      Winter, by Tori Amos
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PDlGUdDF8Y

      With lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmykLjq3cQk

      Snow can wait, I forgot my mittens
      Wipe my nose, get my new boots on
      I get a little warm in my heart
      When I think of winter
      I put my hand in my father's glove

      I run off where the drifts get deeper
      Sleeping beauty trips me with a frown
      I hear a voice:
      "Your must learn to stand up for yourself
      'Cause I can't always be around"

      He says
      When you gonna make up your mind
      When you gonna love you as much as I do
      When you gonna make up your mind
      'Cause things are gonna change so fast
      All the white horses are still in bed
      I tell you that I'll always want you near
      You say that things change my dear

      Boys get discovered as winter melts
      Flowers competing for the sun
      Years go by and I'm here still waiting
      Withering where some snowman was
      Mirror, mirror where's the crystal palace
      But I only can see myself
      Skating around the truth who I am
      But I know, Dad, the ice is getting thin

      When you gonna make up your mind
      When you gonna love you as much as I do
      When you gonna make up your mind
      'Cause things are gonna change so fast
      All the white horses are still in bed
      I tell you that I'll always want you near
      You say that things change my dear

      Hair is grey and the fires are burning
      So many dreams on the shelf
      You say, "I wanted you to be proud"
      I always wanted that myself

      When you gonna make up your mind
      When you gonna love you as much as I do
      When you gonna make up your mind
      'Cause things are gonna change so fast
      All the white horses have gone ahead
      I tell you that I'll always want you near
      You say that things change
      My dear
      (Never change  All the white horses are...mmmmm...)

April 27
(1)
Dictation.

(2)
Transcribe the YouTube version of Glynn Washington's "Back of the Bus" story.

(3) Use the Echo Method to practice all the parts of Gilmore Girls pilot, scene 1 every day!
      Chander is preparing an audio Echo file, but begin practicing NOW!
      The performance will be on Monday May 9.


(4)
Breaktime music:
      Winter,
by Tori Amos
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PDlGUdDF8Y

      With lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmykLjq3cQk



WEEK ELEVEN

May 2
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive.
      For next week: summarize your class notes and notes on this new English Island article:
      Wrongology: 不要懷疑,真的有犯錯學!.

(2) Links to 3 Echo files for Scene One of the Gilmore Girls pilot
      have been emailed to you. Please make an extra effort
      to spend at least ten minutes every day doing Echo practice with them.
      This will help us find out whether this type of Echo file can help you
      learn the lines better and more easily!
      BIG thanks to TA Chander for painstakingly creating these files for us!!

(3) Go over the meaning of Scene One of the Gilmore Girls pilot episode,
      and hand in your cloze exercise from last week. Use the Echo files
      to memorize ALL of the lines for performance on Monday May 9.

(4) Continue transcribing the YouTube version of "Back of the Bus" (order assigned last class):
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ

(5) Breaktime music (requested by Michael Gao):
      Stairway to Heaven, by Led Zeppelin, with lyrics (1971)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHFxncb1gRY
    
      Lyrics


     Compare to Taurus, by Spirit (now suing Led Zeppelin for copyright infringement)

May 4
(1) Dictation.

(2) Go over Gilmore Girls dialogs once more.

(3)
Continue
transcribing the YouTube version of "Back of the Bus":
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ

(4) Breaktime music (requested by Michael Gao):
      Stairway to Heaven, by Led Zeppelin, with lyrics (1971)
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHFxncb1gRY
    
      Lyrics


WEEK TWELVE

May 9
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive, including your notes
      on the new English Island article: Wrongology: 不要懷疑,真的有犯錯學!.
      Please share your feedback in class and ask any questions you may have.
      Next week: Include a description of how you actually used and use the
      audio Echo files for the Gilmore Girls, Scene 1, along with your suggestions
      on how to make the files and learning them more effective.
      Also include you suggestions on how to make the Wednesday dictations
      more effective.

(2) Finish transcribing the YouTube version of "Back of the Bus" in class:
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ

      Discuss; hand in.

(3) First performances of Gilmore Girls pilot, scene one; feedback.
        
(4) New short story: The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
      Read carefully, check all of the vocabulary items you don't know,
      be ready to translate into Chinese in class.
      
Use Google Translate with its TTS and other resources
      to check Dutch and French pronunciations.

(5)
Breaktime music: Desperado, by The Eagles.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCdjvTTnzDU   HD

      Lyrics

May 11
(1) Dictation.

(2) Rest of Gilmore Girls performances; discussion.

(3) New short story: The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
      Read carefully, check all of the vocabulary items you don't know,
      be ready to translate into Chinese in class.
      
Use Google Translate with its TTS and other resources
      to check Dutch and French pronunciations.


(4) New transcription exercise: WNYC: The Leonard Lopate Show
      Subway Rides: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - The Grape (2:11 minutes long)

      Original WNYC page

(5) Breaktime music: Desperado, by The Eagles.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCdjvTTnzDU

      Lyrics


WEEK THIRTEEN
May 16
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive.
      
Include a description of how you actually used and use the
      audio Echo files for the Gilmore Girls, Scene 1, along with your suggestions
      on how to make the files and learning them more effective.
      Also include you suggestions on how to make the Wednesday dictations
      more effective.

(2) Gilmore Girls performances; feedback and discussion on Monday 5/23.

(3) We'll finish the YouTube Back of the Bus transcriptions on Monday 5/23 as well.

(4)  Prepare New
short story: The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
      Read carefully, check all of the vocabulary items you don't know,
      be ready to translate into Chinese in class.
      
Use Google Translate with its TTS and other resources
      to check Dutch and French pronunciations.


(5)
New transcription exercise: WNYC: The Leonard Lopate Show
      Subway Rides: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - The Grape (2:11 minutes long)

      Original WNYC page


(6) Breaktime music: Ode to Billy Joe, sung by Bobbie Gentry (1968)
      Events in the song take place in the US southern state of Mississippi.
      Note the Southern dialect used, the conversations, and mentions of Southern-style food.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HaRacIzZSPo
      Second recording

      Lyrics

May 18
(1) Practice hearing and transcribing 30 one-syllable items,
      emphasizing voiced vs. voiceless final stops.

(2) 3 dictations on the items practiced in (1).

(3) Finish last two performances of Gilmore Girls; prepare for
      discussion on the assignment on Monday 5/23.

(4) Prepare The Train.

(5) Transcribe WNYC's "The Grape".


WEEK FOURTEEN
May 23
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive.

(2) Feedback and discussion on the Gilmore Girls performances.

(3) Finish the YouTube Back of the Bus transcriptions.
      
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ
      Remember and use the skills learned in future work!

(4) Read and translate
The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
   MP3 reading of The Train
      Do the following for page one for Wednesday 5/25:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: |
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z]
   
(5) Breaktime music: Affair on 8th Avenue, by Gordon Lightfoot.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTu_Uu0TgTQ

      Lyrics

May 25
(1) Three dictations: review of voiced vs. voiceless final stops; vowels: /ɛ/ and /æ/.

(2) Read and translate The Train.
      Do the following for pages two and three for Monday 5/30:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: |
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z]


(3) Transcribe WNYC's "The Grape".

(4)
Breaktime music: Affair on 8th Avenue, by Gordon Lightfoot.
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTu_Uu0TgTQ

      Lyrics



WEEK FIFTEEN

May 30
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive;
      include notes on the June English Island article: 中文好,英文也跟著好了.

(2)
Finish the YouTube Back of the Bus transcriptions.
      
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHtn7MbvonQ
      Remember and use the skills learned in future work!

(3) Read and translate
The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
   MP3 reading of The Train
      Do the following for page one for Wednesday 5/25:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: |
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z]

(4) Breaktime music: Laurie by Dickey Lee
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0N4nyYS5aA

     
 Lyrics

June 1

(1) Read and translate The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
   MP3 reading of The Train
      Do the following for page one for Wednesday 5/25:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: | . Learn how to read the continuation rise correctly.
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress.
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation.
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z].

      Pay close attention to INFORMATION VALUE and WORD ORDER in both languages when translating!

(2) Breaktime music: Laurie by Dickey Lee
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0N4nyYS5aA

     
 Lyrics



WEEK SIXTEEN

June 6
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive;
      including notes on the June English Island article: 中文變好,英文也跟著好了
      and give feedback in class.
      Read and include notes on this article in your notes for Monday 6/13:
      A Global Approach to Teaching Phrasal Verbs, by Rita Baker.


(2) Be prepared to retell in class the ghost story told in the song "Laurie" by Dickey Lee.

(3) Read and translate
The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
   MP3 reading of The Train
      Watch out for all of the following when reading:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: | . Learn how to read the continuation rise correctly.
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress.
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation.
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z].

      Pay close attention to INFORMATION VALUE and WORD ORDER in both languages when translating!


(4) Transcribe WNYC's "The Grape" for Wednesday 6/8.

(5) Final evaluation and Summary of Class Notes (submit as two separate pdf files)
      for Freshman English are due
June 15.

      I. End-of-semester evaluation:
      Part 1: evaluate the class, teacher, homework assignments,
what was most and least useful, things that could be improved, and how
— everything about the class this semester.
      Part 2: Evaluate yourself: Attendance and punctuality, homework submission,

how prepared for class you were, how much you learned from the class,
how much effort you put into this class.
      Part 3: How do you plan to continue improving your English?

      II. Organized summary of your class notes:
      Go through all your old notes, and organize them into a summary of main points,
including notes on the CET articles. You do not have to include every single detail
from your notes; try rather to combine notes that are about the same thing and to generalize.


      Format and submission instructions: Convert your files to pdf format
before emailing both files to Ms. Chung at: feathermountain@gmail.com
and TA Chander Tseng 曾國奕 at  k80128n@gmail.com no later than Wednesday June 15, 2016.


(6) Breaktime music: Ballad of Accounting by Ewan MacColl & Peggy Seeger
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eY0bJzKxA8

     
 Lyrics


      Listen to and read the lyrics to this song carefully. Make sure you know all the vocabulary
      and can also give a thoughtful explanation of the meaning of the song's lyrics.
      Why is it called "Ballad of Accounting"?
      It's extremely likely that this song will form an important part of the final exam!

June 8

(1) Transcribe WNYC's "The Grape".

(2)
Try to finish reading and translating The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
   MP3 reading of The Train
      Things to mark and watch out for in your reading:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: |
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z]


(3) New transcription exercise – due Monday June 13:
      Betty in the Sky with a Suitcase! (echoing Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds by the Beatles [1967],
      and the subsequent inane parody of this song, Judy in Disguise with Glasses [1968])
      
Travel the World with Flight Attendant Betty
      Episode 128: Yellow Horses (extract; 1:50 minutes)
      Source page: http://betty.libsyn.com/

(4) Breaktime music: Ballad of Accounting by Ewan MacColl & Peggy Seeger
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eY0bJzKxA8

     
 Lyrics


      Listen to and read the lyrics to this song carefully.
      Make sure you know all the vocabulary and can also give
      a thoughtful explanation of the meaning of the song's lyrics.
      Why is it called "Ballad of Accounting"?
      It's extremely likely that this song will form an important part of the final exam!



WEEK SEVENTEEN
June 13
(1) Submit class notes and upload to Google Drive, including notes on
      A Global Approach to Teaching Phrasal Verbs, by Rita Baker.

(2) Finish transcribing WNYC's "The Grape".

(3) Try to finish reading and translating The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Original post, with photos
   MP3 reading of The Train
      Things to mark and watch out for in your reading:
      1. Mark all pauses with a vertical line: |
      2. Underline all stressed *syllables, and mark *tonic stress
      3. Mark rises and falls  in intonation
      4. Write a "z" under any "s" that is pronounced [z]


(4) If there's time, start on transcription of "Yellow Horses"; otherwise we'll do it on Wednesday 6/15.

(5) Breaktime music: Taxi by Harry Chapin
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5dwksSbD34

      With lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hs4j8YQwst8

      Lyrics

June 15

(1)
Final summary and evaluation are due today.

(2)
Transcription of "Yellow Horses".

(3) Finish reading and translating The Train, by Ann Cavitt Fisher  pdf
      Reread and discuss the story. Make sure to learn all of the vocabulary
      and idioms in the story, paying special attention to pronunciation and stress.

(4) Breaktime music: Taxi by Harry Chapin
     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5dwksSbD34

     With lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hs4j8YQwst8

     Lyrics

     Both this song and Ballad of Accounting will be included in the final exam.


FINALS WEEK (EIGHTEEN)
June 20

Extra class to finish reading and translating "The Train".

June 22

Final exam: Wednesday, June 22, 8:10-10:00am, in 新 403




Important dates: Spring 2016:
Cancel-add: February 22-March 5 (cancel: till March 6)
February 28 holiday
(no class): Monday, February 29
Finalization of class schedules:
March 16-20
Application period for withdrawing from a course:
March 7-May 20
NTU Azelea Festival begins:
March 12
Tomb-Sweeping Holiday
(no class on Monday April 4): April 1-5
Online application for second chance at exemption
    from advanced English class
(subject to change): March 21-25
Taiwan University marathon:
March 26
Mid-semester online student course evaluations:
April 11-22
Mid-terms
(no midterm will be given for this class): April 18-22
End-of-semester online student course evaluations:
June 3-16
Last day of class:
Friday, June 17
Final exams:
June 20-24
Final exam:
Wednesday, June 22, 10:20-12:10pm, in 新生大樓 403
Summer Vacation begins on:
June 27



Fall 2015: 33 class meetings


September 2015: 14, 16, 21, 23, (28 is a holiday), 30
October: 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28
November: 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
December: 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
January 2016: 4, 6


Important dates (Fall 2015):
Cancel-add: September 14-26
Application period for withdrawing from a course:
September 29-December 11
Finalization of class schedules:
October 5-9
Double Tenth National Day holiday (no class):
Friday, October 9
Online application for exemption from advanced English class:
October 19-23 (tentative)
Mid-semester online student course evaluations:
November 2-13
Mid-terms
(no midterm will be given for this class): November 9-13
Anniversary of the Founding of Taiwan University/NTU Campus Fair:
Sunday, November 15
New Year's Day/Founding Day of the ROC
(no class)
: Friday, January 1, 2016
End-of-semester online student course evaluations:
December 25, 2015-January 7, 2016
Last day of class:
Friday, January 8, 2016
Final exams:
January 11-15, 2016
Freshman English final exam:
Wednesday, January 13, 2016 in 新403
Winter break:
January 18-February 21, 2016
Chinese New Year's Eve:
Sunday, February 7, 2016


REQUIREMENTS

I. Books
Optional textbook:

1. 親愛的英文,我到底哪裡錯了? (fb)
搞定50個你一定會犯的英文錯誤,聽說讀寫有如神助
作者: 史考特•科斯博 (Scott Cuthbert)
出版社:本事文化  2014

Available at 政大書城 台大店
台北市大安區羅斯福路3 段301 號B1
電話:02-33653117 營業時間:每日上午10:30至下午10:30
(They sell it for less than the online price.)


Optional picture dictionary for vocabulary-building:
2. English-Chinese Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd edition.
Adelson-Goldstein, Jayme & Norma Shapiro. New York:
Oxford University Press, 2009.
Available at 台大出版中心 (總圖旁)

This is a collection of the most high-frequency and useful words in English.
You may know many of them already, but almost certainly not all of them.
Setting up a program for yourself to learn a few pages of the vocabulary a day -
the pictures make it easier - means you are likely to have important words
ready when you need them in a pinch.


II. Other materials
1.  Dictionaries
     Check ALL words you're not COMPLETELY sure of here –
     LISTEN and REPEAT the CORRECT PRONUNCIATION with CORRECT STRESS
     SEVERAL TIMES.

     a.
 Merriam-Webster Online (GA [= General American])
     http://www.merriam-webster.com/

     b.  Cambridge Advanced Dictionary (GA and BE [= Standard Southern British English])
     http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/

2.
Checking your grammar with Google
    Read this and follow the instructions to check your work
    BEFORE submitting any assignment:
    Using Google as a Usage Barometer, by Jerome C. Su.


3.
Hello!ET (CET) 師德 articles on pronunciation, by Karen Chung

4. Excel spreadsheet with individual pronunciation points

    and issue number of related CET article:
    Use for pronunciation improvement plan.
    Available over Google Drive; use your gmail address to access the folder.
   
5. Simplified English novels
    Extra credit given for one-paragraph summary of each book you read
    Record of books read on Sheet Two of Pronunciation Plan file.
    Simplified novels are fine - the originals are usually too long and difficult.
    Try the library, or Bookman's, Crane's, Lailai, or Cave's, and exchange with classmates.
    FYI: Literary genres include: novel, short story, drama, poetry, essay.

6.
For reference: About Poetry: English Prosody Plus Selected Literary Terms

7. Book sharing: Ms. Chung will occasionally share a book with the class that she is currently reading:
    you are encouraged to do so too!
    

III. Readings:
1. How to Live Wisely by Richard J. Light The New York Times JULY 31, 2015
    pdf   MP3 file


IV. Technology
1. Always use your NTU email account for class business unless otherwise instructed.

2. Join: the Class Facebook Group
3. Join: Karen on Ivy League Analytical English
on Facebook
4. Everybody must have a gmail account and be added to Google Drive, to post, read and edit class assignments.
5. Submit your Echo practice listening log, update your pronunciation plan and your reading list, add new vocabulary, and enter errors and corrections WEEKLY in your Excel file on Google Drive.
6. Submit your weekly class notes into a Word file on Google Drive.
7. Free recording software: Audacity
8. Optional: Online Flash Cards
9. Optional: Free audio books are available on Librivox



SYLLABUS
(will be added to week by week, and is subject to change at any time)

WEEK ONE
September 14
(1)
Introductions; class list - please fill in your English or Romanized name, gmail address, and what musical instrument you play, if any (for Christmas carol sing on December 23).

(2) Format for name on homework – in upper right hand corner, left justified:

    Iris Lin 林玉梅
    B01102000
    Freshman English  Week One
    September 18, 2013  

Use:
Times New Roman 12 pt for text,

       
Lucida Sans Unicode 10.5pt for IPA symbols,
       新細明體 12pt
for 中文

(3)
 Each student is required to send an e-mail message to the professor and TA Chander with an English quote you like, together with its source. (Example: "We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is, knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out." Ray Bradbury (1932- ), American author) It must be a verifiable quote, CORRECTLY FORMATTED, containing no errors. Here is a sample so you know what format to use.

     The purpose of this is (1) to collect the e-mail addresses of everyone in the class, so we can all use them for class communications; and (2) to remind you right at the beginning of the semester of the importance of producing careful work that is not filled with sloppy mistakes. Make sure you sign your name to every e-mail you write! Put "fe quote" in the subject line. Pay attention to correct format; for example, leave a space before and after (parentheses) like this. Without a space it looks like(this)and this is not acceptable in English written format.


     Every student must also register with the New York TImes and subscribe to their daily news digest (these are free, as is access to up to ten news stories a month). You will be asked to choose the kinds of news you'd like to receive. The aim of this requirement is give you at least a passing familiarity with current international events, and for you to get used to using English-language news media sources. Include this sentence in your email: "I have subscribed to the New York Times news digest."

The New York Times (US): https://myaccount.nytimes.com/register
The New York Times homepage: http://www.nytimes.com/

       In addition, include your gmail address, so we can add you to Google Drive
.

      
This assignment is due September 23.

(4)  Print this out and bring it to class: How to Live Wisely
       by Richard J. Light The New York Times JULY 31, 2015
  
    pdf    MP3
       It is numbered from 1 to 15; some of you will be assigned a part
       to prepare to read and translate precisely next class.
       Make sure to upload your translation to Google Drive by 9/30!
       Listen carefully
to this
MP3 file and use it to learn correct pronunciations; mark stresses on your text.
       Enter the new vocabulary in your Excel file on Google Drive and learn it; there will be a quiz on it.
    

(5)
Read and summarize
CET article #1 (issue 69) and CET article #2 (issue 70)
      and include in next Monday's class notes.


(6
) Chander will introduce the Pomodoro Technique of time management, and improving focus and productivity.

(7) Learn and sing: My dame has a lame tame crane

(8)
Book sharing:
Through the Language Glass: Why the World Looks Different in Other Languages,
                             by Guy Deutscher.

      You can keep track of the books you read on Goodreads; see also the 2015 Goodreads Reading Challenge

September 16
(1) Attendance, assigned seats; format of email quote assignment (No html!)

(2) Dictation.

(3) Review: My dame has a lame tame crane

(4) Mini-conversations:
     a. 1 and 2: Introductions (in-class)
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 1 and 2; practice on 9/21; perform on 9/23

(5) Prepare to read aloud and translate on 9/21: How to Live Wisely

(6)
Preview of second text, for transcription, reading aloud, and translation:
      Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus, by Glynn Washington.
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school -- before he even arrives."


WEEK TWO

September 21
(1) Class list; email quote assignment corrections
;
      hand in class notes, including summary of
      CET article #1 (issue 69) and CET article #2 (issue 70);
      read
and summarize CET article #19 (issue 71) and
      Melissa Hsiung's article, 英文 E-mail 潛規則:
老師怎麼不早點教我?!
     
available by free subscription here, for correct email format,
      and include in next Monday's class notes.


(2) Do daily 10-minutes-a-day Echo Practice;
      keep a record of your practice times in Excel file on Google Drive;
      look for and copy the Excel file named "pronplan.xls".

(3) Student presentations of CET #1 and #2; next week: CET #19 (issue 71)
      and
英文 E-mail 潛規則:老師怎麼不早點教我?!

(4) Review
Mini-conversations 1 and 2;
      these will be performed in pairs on Wednesday 9/23.

(5) R
ead aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

September 23
(1) Attendance, assigned seats.

(2) Dictation.

(3) a. Perform in pairs:
Mini-conversations 1 and 2.
      b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 3 and 4; practice on 9/21; perform on 9/30

(4) Chander's presentation on better note taking.

(5) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely

(6)
Preview of second text, for transcription, reading aloud, and translation:
      Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus, by Glynn Washington.
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school -- before he even arrives."


WEEK THREE

September 28
MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL HOLIDAY - NO CLASS.

September 30
(1) Attendance, submit and return work.

(2) Is anybody interested in joining the Christmas carol singing contest?
     Both solos or groups are OK; instruments welcome, recorded accompants are OK.
     Ms. Chung has lots of Christmas music, also some instruments you can borrow.

(3) Dictation.

(4) Presentations on CET #19 and Better Email article by Tony and Camel.
      For next Monday 10/5: read CET #3; Paul and Leo will present.

(5) a. Perform in pairs:
Mini-conversations 1, 2, 3, and 4 with bonus sentence.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 5 and 6; practice on 10/5; perform on 10/7.

(6) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

(7)
Preview of second text, for transcription, reading aloud, and translation:
      Snap Judgment: Back of the Bus, by Glynn Washington.
      "As a youngster, Glynn has a harsh introduction to a new school -- before he even arrives."


WEEK FOUR
October 5

(1) Submit class notes, notes on CET #3; make sure Google Drive is up to date, including listening log.

(2) LAST CALL! Is anybody interested in joining the Christmas carol singing contest?
     Both solos or groups are OK; instruments welcome, recorded accompants are OK.
     Ms. Chung has lots of Christmas music, also some instruments you can borrow.

(3) Presentations on CET #3 Paul and Leo. Ask about anything you're not sure of!
      For next Monday 10/12: read CET #20 and #21; Quincy and Jason will present.

(4) a. Perform in pairs:
Mini-conversations 1 + 2 (together), 3, and 4 with bonus sentence.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 5 and 6; practice on 10/5; perform on 10/7.

(5) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

October 7
(1) Dictation.

(2) Chander's introduction to IPA and text mark-up.

(3) a. Perform in pairs: Mini-conversations 5 and 6
.
      b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 7 and 8; perform on 10/14.

(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


WEEK FIVE
October 12
(1) Submit class notes, notes on CET #20 and #21; Quincy and Jason will present.
     For next Monday 10/19: read CET #4; Michael and Eileen will present.
     Give your feedback on the new Echo files: Did they help in your Echo practice, or not so much?
     Did they make it easier for you to form a habit of doing daily Echo practice?
     Did they help motivate you? What problems did you find in using the files?
     What improvements do you suggest?

     Make sure Google Drive is up to date, including listening log.


(2) Review Mini-conversations 7 and 8; perform on 10/14.
      Use the ECHO FILES prepared by Chander to prepare for your mini-conversation performances!
      Download the files to your phone or MP3 player,
      and listen to them when you're on the MRT, waiting for a bus,
      walking on campus, or otherwise have a free minute or two.
      These ready-made files make it possible to listen passively,
      and make it easy to keep up your 10-minutes-a-day practice.
      Make a real effort to listen to the files DAILY whenever you can,
      then include your FEEDBACK on how it went in NEXT MONDAY'S (10/19) notes!

(3) Choose a SIMPLIFIED or original English NOVEL give a 5-minute oral book report on
      with a PARTNER in November-December. Check with Ms. Chung before buying!
      And make sure you choose a book you like! You can try Bookman's, Crane's, or Cave's bookstores.
      The book must have high literary value!
      Here are three lists of suggested books to choose from,
      though your choices are not limited to these: 1   2   3   Sample titles
      Do NOT choose any of the following: Harry Potter, The Little Prince, Lord of the Rings,
      The Chronicles Of Narnia, Charlotte's Web, or any other children's literature!
      Title and author of the book and the names and student numbers of both partners
      are due MONDAY OCTOBER 19 with your notes.
      Correct format: Austin, Jane. 2000. Sense and Sensibility  (Penguin Readers Level 3).
                                  Retold by Cherry Gilchrist. New York: Penguin. 46pp. Paper.

      To prepare for the oral book report:
      1. Write down all new vocabulary items with meanings and enter into your Excel file, and make an outline;
      2. Meet and discuss book with your partner(s); 3. Presentation will be five minutes long per group;
      4. Book title, author, key words on board; 5. 2-3 sentences on author; 6. Summary of plot;
      7. 2-3 parts that impressed you most; 8. Your evaluation of the book on a scale of 1-10,
          or "Thumbs up" vs. "Thumbs down."

      9. Each pair will have ONE 20-minute individual coaching session with TA Chander before you present,
          to help correct your errors and give you suggestions on how to improve your performance.

(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

October 14
(1) Dictation.

(2) Chander's presentation on IPA II: Consonants.

(3) a. Perform in pairs: Mini-conversations 7 and 8
.
      b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 9 and 10; perform on 10/21.


(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


WEEK SIX
October 19
(1)  Submission via email of the simplified novel you will be reporting on next semester is due
       TODAY! Make sure you use correct bibliographic format (see 10/12) and include the
       English and Chinese names and student numbers of the members of your pair or group.
       Submit together with class notes and summary of CET 4.
       Make sure you have included your feedback on the new Echo files:
       •  Did they help in your Echo practice, or not so much?
       •  Did they make it easier for you to form a habit of doing daily Echo practice?
       •  Did they help motivate you? What problems did you find in using the files?
       •  What improvements do you suggest?

       Make sure Google Drive is up to date, including listening log.

(2) Presentation on main points of CET #4 by Michael and Eileen.
      For next Monday 10/28: read CET #5; James and Vivi will present.


(3)  a. Rest of performances of Mini-conversations 7 and 8.
       b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 9 and 10; perform on 10/28.


(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

(5) Unmissable new pronunciation resource! youpronounce.it

October 21
(1)  a. Performances of Mini-conversations 9 and 10.
       b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 11, 12 and 13; perform on 10/26.


(2) Chander's presentation on IPA III: Vowels.

(3) Dictation. This time, IPA transcriptions will count!

(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


WEEK SEVEN
October 26
(1) Submit class notes, notes on CET #5; James and Vivi will present.
      For next Monday 11/02: read CET #6; Kate and Akka will present.

      Some of you didn't give your feedback on the new Echo files -
      make sure to include it in this week's notes!
      Answer these questions:
      •  Did they help in your Echo practice, or not so much?
      •  Did they make it easier for you to form a habit of doing daily Echo practice?
      •  Did they help motivate you? What problems did you find in using the files?
      •  What improvements do you suggest?

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.


(2) FINALIZE your book choice for the oral book report. USE CORRECT FORMAT!

(3) Review Mini-conversations 9 through 13; perform on 10/28.

(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


October 28

(1) a. Dictation, mainly with monosyllables ending in a nasal, stop, or nasal + stop.
          IPA transcriptions will count!
      
b. Compound noun and phrase stress quiz.

(2)  a. Performances of Mini-conversations 9 and 10.
       b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 14 and 15; perform on 11/04.


(3) Chander's presentation on How We Learn, Part 1.

(4) Review of bibliographic citation format and email format. Please watch every single little DETAIL!
      This MUST be finalized TODAY!
      Please check each of the following:
      1. Have you sent the email to both CHANDER and myself?
      2. Did you follow correct email style, with INDENTED PARAGRAPHS,
          and make sure the font is a consistent style and size? Have you included an
          appropriate SUBJECT LINE in your email, e.g. "Book choice for oral report"?
      3. Have you listed your and your partner's FULL NAME in ENGLISH and CHINESE,
          along with your student numbers?
      4. Have you followed the correct format for your bibliographic citation?
      5. Did you SIGN your email with YOUR FULL NAME?
      6. Note that in English, unlike Chinese, the OTHER person should be listed first –
          it's "My partner and I", and NOT "I and my partner."
          If there is anything in the email you sent not in accord with the above,
          please correct it and resend your email.

(5) Read aloud and translate:
How to Live Wisely.



WEEK EIGHT
November 2
(1)
Submit class notes, notes on CET #6; Kate and Akka will present.
      For next Monday 11/02: read CET #7; Jenny and Marvin will present.

      Make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.

(2) Discussion of format issues with book choice email.

(3) Finish performing mini-conversations 9-13; learn 14 and 15,
      to be performed Wednesday, November 4.

(4) Watch, listen to and think about 1-4 below; then write an essay on what you
      come up with and include it in next Monday's notes. Focus particularly on:


      1. Mark Zuckerberg speaks Chinese at Tsinghua University, Beijing  October 24, 2015
          How do you feel listening to Chinese with poor pronunciation and intonation.
          Also, how it is equivalent to listening to Taiwan English, when spoken by
          someone who has not worked much on their pronunciation, and doesn't know
          the basic rules of English intonation as described in CET #6.

      2. 搭機前先考英文 留美碩士怒批刁難 | 即時新聞 | 20151031 | 蘋果日報
          What is your reaction to the Taiwanese man who was upset at the English test
         he was given before being allowed to board a plane? At about what level would
         you consider his English pronunciation to be? Do you think the airline representative
         at the counter gave him reasonable and fair treatment?

      3. Ms. Chung's story about students learning the Echo Method quickly and
         easily the first day of class, while colleagues with years of experience teaching
         pronunciation often have no reaction to it, or interest in it, at all.

         Why did Ms. Chung get such different reactions from the two groups with whom
         she shared the Echo Method? Why did one pronunciation teacher eventually
         come to be very enthusiastic about it? What does this imply for the prospects
         for popularizing the method in Taiwan and beyond?

      4. British sitcom series: Mind Your Language  (1977) Season One, Episode One
         What is your reaction to this sitcom? How accurately does it reflect reality?
         Name some of the obvious inaccuracies and implausible aspects of the show
         that you notice. Are these justified in order to achieve its goal of getting laughs
         and providing entertainment for viewers?

      5. How can we train Taiwanese in more of the basic things they need to know
         to function well in the world
– e.g. understandable English and tidy email format -
         with all the gaps left behind by test-driven formal education? Think BIG on this one -
         we are looking for a solution or solutions for the whole country - and maybe beyond!

November 4
(1) Dictation, mainly with monosyllables ending in a nasal,
      stop, or nasal + stop. IPA transcriptions will count!
      

(2)
a. Performances of Mini-conversations 14 and 15.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 16 and 17; perform on 11/11.


(3) Book report sign-up with Chander during breaktime. First come, first served!
     Have a number of dates in mind before signing up.



WEEK NINE
November 9
(1)
Submit class notes, including your essay on the assigned video clips and topics,
      and your notes on CET #7;
Jenny and Marvin will present.
      For next Monday 11/16: read CET #8; William and Jinny will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.

(2) Are your book reports coming along OK? Make a date for a coaching session
      with Chander
(Ms. Chung will also attend the first two).
      Make sure you come well prepared!


(3)
a. Finish performing Mini-conversations 14 and 15.
     b. Review Mini-conversations 16 and 17; perform on 11/11.


(4) Book sharing: Roam, Dan. 2008. The Back of the Napkin: Solving Problems
     and Selling Ideas with Pictures
. London: Portfolio/Penguin. 279pp.


November 11
(1) Compound noun and phrase stress quiz.

(2)
a. Performances of Mini-conversations 16 and 17.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 18 and 19; perform on 11/18.


(3) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


WEEK TEN
November 16
(1)
Submit class notes, including your essay on the assigned video clips and topics,
      and your notes on
CET #8; William and Jinny will present.
      For next Monday 11/23: read CET #9 & 10; Mark and Arthur will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.

(2) Review Mini-conversations 18 and 19; perform on 11/25.

(3) Review how to circle stress and mark *tonic stress in compound noun stress quizzes.

(4)
Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


November 18
(1) a. Dictation and b. compound noun and phrase stress quiz.

(2)
a. Performances of Mini-conversations 18 and 19.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 20 and 21; perform on 11/25.


(3) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

(4) First two oral book report coaching sessions today.


WEEK ELEVEN
November 23

(1) Submit class notes, including any feedback on how to motivate
      learners to learn something well rather than just to pass tests,

      and your notes on
CET #9 & #10; Mark and Arthur will present.
      For next Monday 11/30: read CET #11; Andrew and David will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.

(2)
Review Mini-conversations 20 and 21; perform on 11/25.

(3)
First oral book report, by Yunya and Andy Hsu: Around the World in Eighty Days, by Jules Verne.

(4) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

November 25
(1) a. Dictation and b. compound noun and phrase stress quiz.

(2)
a. Performances of Mini-conversations 20 and 21.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 22 and 23; perform on 12/2.


(3)
Oral book report by Valerie and Tina: The Accidental Tourist, by Anne Tyler.

(4) Chander's presentation on How We Learn, Part 1.

      Next Productivity Hack: Hanyu Pinyin
漢語拼音.
      Print out and carefully do this tutorial:
      
漢語拼音八講 Eight Lessons in Hanyu Pinyin
      (watch out for two or so errors in the exercises)
      http://www.ncacls.org/materials/HanYuPinYin-8.pdf
.


(5) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.


WEEK TWELVE
November 30
(1) Submit class notes, including any feedback on how to motivate
      learners to learn something well rather than just to pass tests,
      and your notes on
CET #11; Andrew and David will present.
      For next Monday 12/07: read CET #12; Tina and Valerie will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.

(2)
Finish performing Mini-conversations 20 and 21;
      review Mini-conversations 22 and 23
; perform on 12/01.

(3)
Oral book reports:
      1. Eileen and Michael: The Secret Agent, by Joseph Conrad.
      2. Tony and Jeffrey: Cold Mountain, by Charles Frazier.

(4) Chander's presentation on How We Learn, Part 2.

(5) Here is the Christmas carol page.


December 2
(1) a. Performances of Mini-conversations 22 and 23.
     b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 24 and 25; perform on 12/9.


(2)
Oral book reports: Please write the required information on the board before class starts!
      1. Arthur and Mark: Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë.
      2. Liam and Andy Fu: The Call of the Wild, by Jack London.
      3. Jason and Andrew: Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury (not finished).

(3)
Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

(4)
Here is the Christmas carol page.

 

WEEK THIRTEEN
December 7
(1) Submit class notes and your notes on CET #12; Tina and Valerie will present.
      For next Monday 11/30: read CET #13; Yun Ya and Andy Hsu will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.
 
     Please include any new feedback you have on the Echo files in your notes.
      We hope to fully optimize them by the end of this semester!

(2)
Review Mini-conversations 24 and 25; perform on Wednesday 12/09.

(3)
Oral book reports: Please write the required information on the board before class starts!
      1. Jason and Andrew: Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury (finish).
      2. William and Allen Yeh: Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë.
      3. Quincy and Akka: The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
      4. Jenny and Jinny: Cold Mountain, by Charles Frazier.
      5. Yang Yang and Judy: Animal Farm, by George Orwell.

(4)
Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

(5) Do the Pinyin tutorial on paper! Due Monday 12/14.

(6) Here is the Christmas carol page.


December 9

(1) a. Dictation and b. Compound noun stress quiz.
      Those who score below 70% on the compound noun stress quiz will get
       two chances to improve your score in a make-up quiz. If you still score below
       70%, you will be considered to have not passed this item,
       and your final grade for the course will be lowered by one half-grade, e.g. B to B-.
       You can also opt to take 1 or 2 make-up quizzes to improve your dictation grade.

(2)  a. Performances of
Mini-conversations 24 and 25.
       b. Learn and practice Mini-conversations 26 and 27; perform on 12/16.


(3)
Oral book reports by:
      1. Vivi and Kate: Misery, by Stephen King.
      2. James and Brian: A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles Dickens.

(4)
Do the Pinyin tutorial on paper! Due Monday 12/14.

(5) Here is the Christmas carol page.

      Make sure you sign up your instrument, all your carols,
      and key used in each carol with Chander.
 

WEEK FOURTEEN
December 14
(1) Submit class notes and your notes on CET #13; Yun Ya and Andy Hsu will present.
      For next Monday 12/21: read CET #14 and CET #15; Liam and Brian will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.


(2)  Review Mini-conversations 26 and 27; perform on 12/16.

(3) Oral book reports by:
      1. David and Marvin: The TIme Machine, by H. G. Wells.
      2. Leo and Paul: Les Misérables, by Victor Hugo.
      3. AJ and Allen Chen: Forrest Gump, by Winston Groom.


(4) Discussion and 檢討 of book report assignment.
      What did you learn from this assignment?
      What impressed you most about it?
      How could it be improved?
      Will it affect your future English learning and reading habits at all, and how?

(5) Pinyin tutorial is due today.

(6) Here is the Christmas carol page.
      Make sure you sign up your instrument, all your carols,
      and key used in each carol with Chander.


(7) First make-up dictation and compound noun stress quiz: after class.

December 16
(1) Chander's presentation on Hanyu Pinyin.

(2)  Perform Mini-conversations 26 and 27.

       Learn Mini-conversations 28 and 29; to be performed 12/30.
       Make-up performances.

(3) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.



WEEK FIFTEEN
December 21
(1) Final evalution and Summary of Class Notes (submit as two separate pdf files)
      for Freshman English are due January 5:

      I. End-of-semester evaluation:
      Part 1: Evaluate the class, teacher, homework assignments,
what was most and least useful, things that could be improved, and how
— everything about the class this semester.
      Part 2: Evaluate yourself: Attendance and punctuality, homework submission,

how prepared for class you were, how much you learned from the class,
how much effort you put into this class.
      Part 3: How do you plan to continue improving your English?

      II. Organized summary of your class notes:
      Go through all your old notes, and organize them into a summary of main points.
You do not have to include every single detail from your notes; try rather to combine
notes that are about the same thing and to generalize.


      Format and submission instructions: Convert your files to pdf format
before emailing both files to Ms. Chung at: feathermountain@gmail.com
and
TA Chander Tseng 曾國奕 at  k80128n@gmail.com
no later than January 5, 2016.


(2)
Submit class notes and your notes on CET #14 and CET #15; Liam and Brian will present.
      For next Monday 12/28: read CET #16 and CET #17; Allen Chen and AJ will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.

(3) First Pinyin quiz.


(4) Finish discussion and 檢討 of book report assignment.
      What did you learn from this assignment?
      What impressed you most about it?
      How could it be improved?
      Will it affect your future English learning and reading habits at all, and how?

(5) Learn mini-conversations 28 and 29, the last two for this semester


(6)
Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely
.

(7) Download and print out Christmas Carols 2015   pdf   for Christmas carol singing
      on Wednesday December 23.

(8) Second and final make-up dictation and compound noun stress quiz: after class.

December 23
(1) Christmas carol sing
      Print out and bring your copy of: Christmas Carols 2015   pdf 
      And don't forget to bring your instruments and your voice!


WEEK SIXTEEN

December 28
(1) Final evalution and Summary of Class Notes (submit as two separate pdf files)
      for Freshman English are due January 5:

      I. End-of-semester evaluation:
      Part 1: Evaluate the class, teacher, homework assignments,
what was most and least useful, things that could be improved, and how
— everything about the class this semester.
      Part 2: Evaluate yourself: Attendance and punctuality, homework submission,

how prepared for class you were, how much you learned from the class,
how much effort you put into this class.
      Part 3: How do you plan to continue improving your English?

      II. Organized summary of your class notes:
      Go through all your old notes, and organize them into a summary of main points.
You do not have to include every single detail from your notes; try rather to combine
notes that are about the same thing and to generalize.


      Format and submission instructions: Convert your files to pdf format
before emailing both files to Ms. Chung at: feathermountain@gmail.com
and TA Chander Tseng 曾國奕 at  k80128n@gmail.com
no later than January 5, 2016
.


(2) Submit class notes and your notes on CET #16 and CET #17; Allen and AJ will present.
      For next Monday read CET #18; Yang Yang and Judy will present.

      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.
      If anybody still has Christmas sheet music, please return it today.

(3) Second Pinyin quiz on Wednesday December 30.

(4) Review
mini-conversations 28 and 29, the last two for this semester.
      You may ask to have your score for these conversations averaged in
       to the oral score for your final exam, if you think it will improve your grade.

(5)
Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.

(6)
For practice: collections of compound nouns and noun phrases (from a previous class)  pdf

December 30
(1) Second Pinyin quiz.

(2)
Perform Mini-conversations 28 and 29.

(3) Read aloud and translate: How to Live Wisely.
      Reread aloud in class, one sentence per student;
      then discuss content of the article, and some of the things
      you learned from this assignment.


      Make sure you know how to pronounce all the words
      in the article correctly, paying special attention to
      word stress and compound noun stress
      in addition to the meaning of each word and expression.

(4) For practice: collections of compound nouns and noun phrases    pdf
     (from a previous class – look for Chander's very topical list!) 


WEEK SEVENTEEN
January 4, 2016
(1) Submit class notes and your notes on CET #18; Yang Yang and Judy will present.
      Also make sure your Google Drive is up to date, including your listening log.


(2)
Discuss the final exam. And don't forget to send your class evaluation and
      organized summary of your notes, both in pdf format, to both Ms. Chung
      at: feathermountain@gmail.com and TA Chander Tseng 曾國奕
      at  k80128n@gmail.com
no later than tomorrow January 5, 2015.


(3) Finish reading aloud and translating: How to Live Wisely.
      Reread aloud: each person will read two sentences.

(4) John Lennon: Imagine.

January 6, 2016
(1) Turn in any back homework.
      Back homework will be accepted no later than 12 noon Friday January 8, 2016.

(2) The Many "D'oh"s of Homer Simpson.

(3) Discuss How to Live Wisely
.


(4) a. Rap song: Don't Stay in School by Boyinaband David Brown.
      b. Reacting to “Don’t Stay in School” hate comments

(5) Questions, review.


FINAL EXAMS WEEK
January 13, 2016
Final exam in 新 403.


Goals of Course

     
This course will concentrate on four main areas:

     (1) Pronunciation training. Everybody must keep a pronunciation, grammar and class notes journal. A summary of your class notes is due every Monday.

     (2) Reading and translation practice. This semester we will mainly be reading essays and possibly short stories, though additional texts may be assigned. Normally, individual students will be assigned to translate a given passage of the reading beforehand. Each of the passages will be read, translated orally into good Chinese, discussed, and sometimes acted out in class. The reading will be followed by a class discussion, and almost always by a short quiz, usually on vocabulary and compound and phrase stress. Students are actively encouraged to relate what they read and learn to their own life, experiences, and feelings, and to listen attentively to what their classmates have to say. Also, for each simplified English novel or other English book you read on your own and submit a short summary of, you will receive extra credit. Everybody must keep a record of the books you read.

     (3) Listening and oral practice with online resources. There will normally be one online listening assignment a week requiring written answers to listening comprehension questions. We will correct the assignment of the previous week and a new assignment will be given every Wednesday. You may work with your classmates or friends on the listening part of the assignment, but you must do your own work answering the questions. 50% or more will be deducted on assignments that are not handed in on time. Click here for suggestions on how to approach the listening assignments.

     (4) Various oral presentations, including a book report first semester and possibly a dramatization second semester.
    
     This is not a composition course, and we unfortunately have too large a class and not enough time for lots of conversation practice. You must create opportunities for yourself to get practice in these areas. If you would like composition practice, however, you could consider keeping a blog. You may even be lucky enough to get feedback on what you write! Or find a language exchange partner on Livemocha.com. Remember in any case that you are responsible for your own education – the NTU faculty and staff can help you with only part of it!

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E-mail and miscellaneous requirements

     
E-mail: Every student must use your NTU e-mail account. Each student is responsible for ensuring that their e-mail inbox is able to receive and send mail at all times.

     In the first week of class, each student is required to send an e-mail message to the professor with an English quote you like, together with its source. (Example: "Never express yourself more clearly than you are able to think." Niels Bohr (1885-1962), Danish physicist) It must be a verifiable quote, CORRECTLY FORMATTED, containing no errors. Here is a sample so you know what format to use.

     The purpose of this is (1) to collect the e-mail addresses of everyone in the class, so we can all use them for class communications; and (2) to remind you right at the beginning of the semester of the importance of producing careful work that is not filled with sloppy mistakes. Make sure you sign your name to every e-mail you write! Put "fe quote" in the subject line. Pay attention to correct format; for example, leave a space before and after (parentheses) like this. Without a space it looks like(this)and this is not acceptable in English written format.

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     Pronunciation and grammar journal: You are required to keep a running record of specific sounds and other areas you need to work on in your pronunciation in a small notebook, based on feedback you receive in class. You are also required to keep a record of all grammar points and corrections made in class and in your written work. You are expected to have your journal open and ready throughout each class, without being reminded. You will be asked to write and hand in a summary of your pronunciation and grammar journal at the end of each semester. You can use this page to insert IPA/KK symbols into Word and other documents.

     Oral book report: Each student will be asked to choose a simplified or original novel to read with a partner and give a 5-minute oral book report on. Here are three lists of suggested books to choose from, though your choices are not limited to these; do NOT however choose any of the following: Harry Potter, The Little Prince, Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles Of Narnia, or any other children's literature:

http://observer.guardian.co.uk/review/story/0,6903,1061037,00.html
http://www.randomhouse.com/modernlibrary/100bestnovels.html
http://www.time.com/time/2005/100books/the_complete_list.html

You may read your book in the original if you choose, but most works are quite long and difficult, with an overwhelming number of unfamiliar vocabulary words. The intention of this assignment is simply for you to become better acquainted with English literature, and for you to have an enjoyable reading experience. Hopefully, once you have gotten through, understood, and enjoyed an entire abridged and simplified work in English, you will want to explore more books, maybe also in simplified form, but eventually you may want to tackle a novel in the original. DO NOT COPY FROM ANY SOURCE WITHOUT CITING THE SOURCE. This is plagiarism and an extremely serious offense; in the US it is grounds for dismissal from the university.

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     News reading: Every student must register with the New York TImes and subscribe to their daily news digest (these are free, as is access to up to ten news stories a month). You will be asked to choose the kinds of news you'd like to receive. The aim of this requirement is give you at least a passing familiarity with current international events, and for you to get used to using English-language news media sources.

The New York Times (US): https://myaccount.nytimes.com/register
The New York Times homepage: http://www.nytimes.com/

UK Media:
The BBC World Service homepage:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/

The Guardian Unlimited (UK):
http://users.guardian.co.uk/register/1,12904,-1,00.html
The Guardian Unlimited homepage: http://www.guardian.co.uk/

Poetry from the MPR's Writer's Almanac (optional): If you'd like a poem and a "today in literature" summary delivered to your e-mail inbox every day, sign up here:
http://mail.publicradio.org/content/506927/forms/twa_signup.htm
Writer's Almanac homepage: http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/
About.com also has a Classic Poem Daily (optional): http://quotations.about.com/c/ec/1.htm

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Podcasts: If you have an MP3 player, iPod, or smart phone, podcasts are a great way to listen to class listening files anytime, anywhere. You can also download an enormous variety of files you choose yourself. You can even produce your own podcast for others to listen to!

iTunes is one popular way to download podcasts. Select "United States" as your country for the largest selection. Check out the free university courses available on iTunes U!

http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/

     Here are some pages with podcasts to choose from, subscribe to or download, then copy to your MP3 player:

BBC podcast feeds:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts
NPR podcast directory:
http://www.npr.org/rss/podcast/podcast_directory.php
Nature magazine podcast:
http://www.nature.com/nature/podcast/index.html
Podcast directories:
http://www.podfeed.net/
http://podcast.com/

     Handouts will be posted on this Web site. You are responsible for printing them out yourself.
    

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     Grade calculation

     Grades will be calculated on the basis of:

     1. Attendance. Note that missing more than three classes or being late to class more than five times without good reason is sufficient grounds for receiving a failing grade for this course; being late disturbs everybody else in the class, so make a concerted effort to be in class on time.

     DON'T BE LATE!

     If you must miss class or be late let Ms. Chung and Melissa know by e-mail or otherwise beforehand; or as soon as possible afterwards if you really can't get in touch beforehand. Don't just fail to show up for class and not offer an explanation – even if it's "I overslept", please explain.

     2. Homework, including listening assignments and pronunciation/grammar summaries
     3. Quizzes (usually given after we finish reading and discussing each text)
     4. Oral presentations
     5. Class participation
     6. Attitude
     7. Progress made
     8. Final exam
     Extra credit will be given to students who do independent research on a class-related topic and share their findings with the class.

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Notes regarding grading policy:
     Taiwan University now uses a letter grade system like the one used in US universities. Please do NOT ask for a precise percentage breakdown of how your grade is calculated. You should be able to see from the above that each person's situation is different, and things like "attitude" and "progress made" are difficult to quantify. If, for example, you make great progress after the middle of the semester, your earlier grades will count less. If your grades fluctuate a lot and you do not have a very positive attitude toward learning, all of your grades will be counted just as you earn them; points will be taken off from your final grade if you have often been late or absent from class, or are missing assignments or handed them in late. It's really quite simple - do good work and you get good grades. Your final exam will test your ability in the key areas covered in class; it is not "arbitrary." Very often it is consistent with the work you have done throughout the semester, and therefore your final grade may be close to your final exam grade. Do not conclude that because of this, your final grade is simply decided by your final exam grade. If you have questions not covered in these notes, please e-mail Ms. Chung. But please do NOT come to complain about a grade or demand an explanation for it unless it is clear there has been in error in calculation, e.g. of an exam score. Rest assured that we teachers spend a LOT of time taking many different factors into consideration before finally deciding on each and every grade we give.

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     Dictionaries

     
Here is a list of recommended dictionaries and reference works. Please use an online English dictionary with audio files (e.g. the Merriam-Webster is one of the best) to check the pronunciation of any word you encounter that you aren't sure how to pronounce. You have no excuse for getting a pronunciation in a poem or written exercise wrong in class! Get used to relying on your ears rather than on your eyes when it comes to pronunciation!

      The following paper dictionary is highly recommended: Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English: The Living Dictionary. 5th Edition. 2009. Essex: Pearson Education. Available at Crane's in hardcover or paperback. It comes with a CD-ROM (requiring about 500MB of disk space) which offers definitions, audio files of pronunciation of the entry in British English (online version also available; or you can check the standard British English pronunciation on http://www.howjsay.com/) and U.S. English, plus exercises and many other excellent features. It gives word pronunciations in IPA symbols, which are very close to the KK system you are familiar with.

      The above dictionary doesn't include very difficult or technical words; you can get these from the online dictionaries, or get another English-English desktop dictionary, available for purchase at local English book stores such as Bookman, Crane's, Lai Lai and Cave's.

     Here's a page on How to Choose a Dictionary.

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      US English-English dictionaries usually use a strange (for you) set of pronunciation symbols based on English spelling habits, which may be difficult to get used to at first. You will find a pronunciation key on each page of the dictionary to help you. Here's the pronunciation key to the American Heritage Dictionary, which is representative of this kind of pronunciation symbols. If in doubt, use an online dictionary with audio files and listen to the correct pronunciation!

      A pocket edition of one of these English-English dictionaries is handy for class use; most English-Chinese dictionaries published in Taiwan are full of errors, especially in the KK pronunciations of words. Electronic dictionaries are handy and very popular among students these days, but they are also not always as reliable, since they are mostly produced domestically; they will probably be missing some words and definitions, and the pronunciation in KK symbols may not be accurate. But some include a huge database of several good English-English dictionaries, and are very useful. Shop carefully.

     The best English thesaurus, in my opinion, is: The Synonym Finder. 1987. Emmaus: Rodale. 1361pp. Paper. Available at Bookman Books 書林.

      In my view, the very best Chinese-English dictionary is one compiled on the Chinese mainland: 漢英辭典. 修訂版. 1995. 北京:外語教學與研究出版社. 主編:危東亞. This now seems to be out of print, so the following is a good substitute: 新世紀漢英大辭典 A New Century Chinese-English Dictionary. 外語教學與研究出版社, 2003. Purchase at 秋水堂 台北市羅斯福路三段333巷14號
(02)2369-5999. You may have to put in a special order. It takes about six weeks for the book(s) to arrive.

      See homepage and the Language and Linguistics page for links to more online dictionaries, including Chinese ones.

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Outside Work

     All students are encouraged to advance their English skills on their own, outside class. Here are some ideas on how to do this; also please visit Extras on this site for some resources to get you started:

      Read English newspapers and magazines (many available free online – see Extras or do a search), novels (simplified ones are OK!), materials on the Internet, anything else of interest;

     Listen to the radio – programs like Studio Classroom or Ivy League (if you are on Facebook, you might want to consider joining the Karen on Ivy League Analytical English fan page), FM93.1 and ICRT (100.7), which broadcast BBC programming every weekday morning, 6am-7am for FM93.1, and 7:00-7:30am for ICRT: listen to the BBC's daily Learning English feature with text and audio; and other Internet broadcasts from around the world (see Extras); you can now download lots of audio programs on the Internet to your MP3 player – see section on podcasts above;

     Watch English language TV programs, e.g. sitcoms and the news, and movies: movies and other videos/DVDs can be borrowed and viewed in the AV library;

     Speak and write English with friends: you may want to set up a language exchange, meet English speakers through activities in Taipei's foreign communities, or just practice with classmates – don't be shy! Finding and writing to an e-mail pen pal is another good way to practice English – try joining a special interest discussion group (see Extras) and send a note to someone who says things you think are interesting. Keep a blog.

     Here's a Topical list of resources in the Language Learning workshop from SIL International – it contains lots of good ideas on language learning.

     Please write Prof. Chung if you have other good English-learning ideas to share!

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Study aids and resources

Reading and thinking:
1.
Interrogating Texts: 6 Reading Habits to Develop in Your First Year at Harvard
http://hcl.harvard.edu/research/guides/lamont_handouts/interrogatingtexts.html

2. How to Write More Clearly, Think More Clearly, and Learn Complex Material More Easily by Michael A. Covington
http://www.ai.uga.edu/mc/WriteThinkLearn.pdf

Format and Hanyu Pinyin:
3. English formatting workbook – good for practice:
http://mcu.edu.tw/~ssmith/pe1writing/workbook.pdf

4. Punctuation explained
http://www.nationalpunctuationday.com/

5. Clean up cluttered Web pages with Readability
http://lab.arc90.com/experiments/readability/

6. Hanyu Pinyin 漢語拼音Tutorial: Teach yourself Pinyin
http://www.ncacls.org/materials/HanYuPinYin-8.pdf

7. Pinyin tone mark converter
http://toshuo.com/chinese-tools/pinyin-tone-tool/

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Computer skills:
8. David Pogue's Tech Tips for the Basic Computer User
http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/02/tech-tips-for-the-basic-computer-user/#more-553

Compound stress, word endings, grammar:
9. English compound noun stress rules
http://www.soundsofenglish.org/pronunciation/suprasegmentals/index.html#noun
http://www.phon.ucl.ac.uk/home/wells/p201-10-lecture.pdf

10.
English plural and past tense pronunciation rules


11. Verb Tense Tutorial
http://www.englishpage.com/verbpage/verbtenseintro.html
Explanation of the simple past in English
http://www.englishpage.com/verbpage/simplepast.html
More verb practice
http://www.angelfire.com/wi3/englishcorner/grammar/grammar.html#simpasint

Pronunciation, listening, the Echo Method, phonics, adverbs:
12. English Central
http://www.englishcentral.com


13. Facebook: Karen on Ivy League Analytical English
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-on-Ivy-League-Analytical-English/234235001756

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14. Sesame Street: Demonstration of how the "Echo Method" works
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jdP7HUPbVs&NR=1&feature=fvwp
Learn phonics with "Silent E"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVC9TayQIh8
Learn English adverb formation with the "LY" song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxVoHqgemWE&NR=1

Language exchange and audio books:
15. Language exchange site: Livemocha
http://www.livemocha.com/

16. Free audio books: Librivox
http://librivox.org/newcatalog/

17. More free audio books

http://homepage.ntu.edu.tw/~karchung/Extras.htm#books

Inputting KK symbols:
18. Online KK symbol editor page
http://ipa.typeit.org/

19. Copy-and-paste IPA symbols

http://www.i2speak.com/


Dictionaries:
1. Merriam-Webster (American English)
http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/

2. Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (American and British English)
http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/

3. Macmillan Dictionary (American and British English)
http://www.macmillandictionary.com/

4. Howjasay (British English pronunciation)
http://www.howjsay.com/

5. The Free Dictionary (American English pronunciation)
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/

6.
OneLook Free Dictionary (Good for patttern searches)

http://www.onelook.com/

7. Lopate: Near Suicide

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