Level 1

Overview

Read, demonstrate comprehension of, and respond to readings of 400-600 words containing compound, simple and complex sentence structures
Summarize the main ideas of a reading orally and in writing
Write a 5-paragraph essay focusing on basic structure of an academic essay including thesis statement, topic sentences, supporting details, organization, unity, and cohesion
Practice on basic sentence structure and sentence components (S, V, DO, IO, Possessives) with an emphasis on forming correct simple and compound sentences and using all simple verb tenses in context
Take notes on and respond to short lectures, give short presentations, and participate in small group discussions, all while using level appropriate grammar
Build vocabulary and spelling of sight words, common verbs, and the Academic Word List

Course Objectives

Grammar

Level 1 grammar focuses on basic sentence structure and sentence components (S, V, DO, IO, Possessives). An emphasis is placed on forming correct simple and compound sentences and using all simple verb tenses mixed in context. A general overview of noun functions and forms is also covered to build the foundation for noun phrases and conditionals that will be taught in the Level 2 level. Upon completion of this level, students will be able to write correct simple and compound sentences using correct nouns, simple and progressive verbs, direct objects, and indirect objects.

Writing

Level 1 writing focuses on learning the basic structure of an academic essay (thesis statement, topic sentences, supporting details, organization, unity, and cohesion). Students learn how to view writing as a process by writing multiple drafts and learning editing marks. Sentence structured instruction focuses on simple and compound sentences with S-V agreement. Upon completion of this level, students will be able to write well-organized, grammatically correct 5-paragraph essays on simple academic topics.

Reading

Level 1 reading serves as an introduction to academic texts. Using the Academy Way, students are taught to consistently use strategies to navigate difficult, lengthy texts. At this level, identifying the structure of texts and ascertaining main ideas and details from the text are strongly emphasized. Students also begin to learn vocabulary from various texts both directly and through context. Choral reading is practiced to highlight the importance of fluency, expression, and tone. Upon completion of this level, students will be able to read and comprehend short academic passages and write grammatically-correct responses to the passage focusing on main ideas and details.

Listening & Speaking

Level 1 listening & speaking is an introduction to various academic practices: listening to lectures, expressing ideas and opinions, taking notes, giving speeches, conducting interviews, and effectively participating in small groups. Students also have their first exposure to APA by researching a simple academic source and verbally citing the source in a speech. Students will learn how to navigate pronunciation, intonation, and stress, particularly focusing on correctly pronouncing the ends of words. Upon completion of this level, students will be able to successfully take notes on and respond to short lectures, give short presentations, and participate in small group discussions, all while using level appropriate grammar.

Spelling & Vocabulary

Vocabulary & Spelling sets the foundation for understanding parts of speech, word families, and spelling. Students are taught a variety of vocabulary, focusing on not only building their current vocabulary, but developing strategies for learning new vocabulary and understanding word parts for spelling. Vocabulary instruction focuses on sight words, common verbs, and the AWL. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify parts of speech, confidently use the vocabulary learned in a variety of contexts, and employ strategies for new vocabulary and spelling.

University of Colorado Denver

Denver

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Level 1

Overview

Course Objectives

Grammar

Writing

Reading

Listening & Speaking

Spelling & Vocabulary

University of Colorado Denver

Denver

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Level 1

Overview

Course Objectives

Grammar

Writing

Reading

Listening & Speaking

Spelling & Vocabulary