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 began working at Temple University Japan in the early 1990s and continued working full time until July 2015. During that time she was at different periods, an Assistant Director in the Intensive English Language Program, part of the team which launched the Corporate Education Business English program, an instructor in the Academic Preparation Program, an instructor in the START and BRIDGE programs, and the Academic Coordinator for the Bridge Program. Currently she is teaching part time in the Bridge Program. She has a master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, and has especially enjoyed working with content related courses. She began working with Continuing Education soon after the NGO program was expanded in the later 1990s. From Fall 2006 – Fall 2018, she did additional support work as a faculty coordinator in the program. She is from the United States, and before coming to Tokyo worked at the Texas Intensive English Program in Austin, Texas. She has also taught English in Mexico and Malaysia. She has an MA in Intercultural Education/TESOL.