Introduction to Global Issues

Hunger, Poverty, Water Shortage, Food, Security, Global Warming, Conflict, Disease: These are all examples of Global Issues. These problems are difficult to solve but one step is to learn more about them. In this class students will explore some selected issues. There will be some readings appropriate for the class level (mostly internet based) and students will prepare short written responses to portions of the readings. In class, students will share their written responses and then move into group problem-solving tasks and discussions. Through the readings students will build vocabulary as well as improve critical reading skills in English. A comfortable class atmosphere and small group work will help discussion skills grow. Students will have opportunities to do small independent research projects on topics that they would like to explore. Intended for non-native English speakers, this class provides a good opportunity to build up all areas of language skills, practice critical thinking, and learn some valuable new information about important topics affecting our world today.

1. Improve speaking and discussion skills through many varied speaking activities.
2. Develop speaking skills through integration with critical reading, brief written responses, vocabulary growth, and improved listening comprehension.

Non-native English speakers with a minimum of intermediate level English proficiency.
English Level: Intermediate to High-Intermediate

No required textbook

Kathleen Schmitz

Kathleen Schmitz taught English at universities in Mexico, Malaysia, and the United States before coming to Japan. At TUJ she worked in many areas of the university English language instruction programs, including course development and administrative work. She is especially interested in intercultural topics and teaching English through content related courses. Currently she has ended full time work at TUJ but has continued with part-time teaching, primarily in the Continuing Education Program where she has taught courses related to global issues since the earlier days of the program. Her MA is in Intercultural Education/TESOL.