Student Learning Support

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EL001 FAQs

1. What’s the purpose of EL001?
   For some years, many USP staff have been searching for the best way to help first year students improve their use of academic English, especially writing. In 2001, the USP Senate asked Student Learning Support to provide a one-semester course in English language skills to all first year students who would benefit, beginning in second semester, 2002. This course was successful, and is now a regular part of the USP degree programmes.
   
   
2. Why am I here?
   To select the students who would benefit from the course, Student Learning Support has developed a comprehensive diagnostic test, English Language Skills Assessment (ELSA). The test results are reported as five band levels: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Scores 3, 4 or 5 show that students have the minimum proficiency required for university study in the medium of English. So, you are here because you scored either Band 1 or 2 on ELSA.
   
   
3. What are the fees for EL001?
   The current fee for EL001 is FJ$330. USP considers the course so essential that it is subsidising all the course costs. The fee includes course materials, which are supplied to you for no extra charge.
   
   
4. Why do I have to drop one course?
   Everyone at USP is concerned that students succeed in their courses. If you are overloaded, and can’t devote enough time to each course, you will certainly have problems. Four courses are the most any student can take in any semester.
   
   
5. Why can’t I do this course later in my degree?
   Students whose skills in academic English are not strong may pass their 100-level courses. However, 200-level courses require a deeper level of analysis, more critical skills in reading, and a higher standard of writing. Your ELSA results showed that your academic English skills need to be developed to the standard required for 200-level courses.
   
   
6. I’ve already done courses in English and communication skills. How is EL001 different?
   There are some important differences.
   

• You will be in a small group (up to 18).
• There will be separate groups for Science, Arts and Education students.
• You will be using materials and examples from your own subjects for much of the time.
• Active learning and practice in pairs and small groups will be the dominant teaching method.