English for Successful Academic Communication 1 (ESAC 1)

• 20 Credits
• SCQF Level 7 (Year 1 Undergraduate) 

While ESAC 1 is open to all first- and second-year undergraduate students, it is likely to be of most relevance to students who use English as an additional language and have an English language proficiency level of CEFR B2, or IELTS 6.5. If your level is higher, the ESAC 2 course may be more suitable for you. 

Note that it is not possible to take both ESAC1 and ESAC2 in the same semester. If you would like to take both courses, we would normally expect you to take ESAC1 in semester 1 and progress to ESAC2 in semester 2.  

ESAC 1 is an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course designed for undergraduate students. Whether you're new to studying in English or looking to strengthen your academic skills, this course will help you build confidence and develop the language and study skills you need to succeed at university.

One of the things students value most about ESAC 1 is the supportive learning environment. You'll have plenty of opportunities to share your ideas, ask questions, and take part in discussions in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere. Many previous students have appreciated the chance to practise their skills without fear of being judged, helping them grow in confidence throughout the course.

This course will help you to engage more effectively with your studies at Edinburgh.

What You’ll Learn:

Listening and Note-taking

Develop practical strategies to improve your academic listening skills. You’ll learn techniques such as predicting, monitoring understanding, clarifying meaning, responding to ideas, and making inferences. You’ll also explore different note-taking methods to help you capture and organise information effectively during lectures.

Academic Writing

Learn how to communicate your ideas clearly and persuasively in academic English. You’ll practise organising information logically, building coherent arguments, and creating well-structured assignments. You’ll also learn how to use sources effectively to support your ideas and develop your ability to critically evaluate the work of others.

Reading and Text Analysis

Strengthen your critical reading skills by learning how to identify facts, opinions, and assumptions in academic texts. You’ll explore how an author’s background, purpose, and perspective can influence their writing, and you’ll become more aware of the language and techniques writers use to shape meaning and persuade readers.

Discussion and Presentation Skills

Build your confidence in speaking and participating in academic settings. You’ll practise contributing to classroom discussions, engaging in seminars, and delivering presentations, developing the skills needed to communicate effectively with both classmates and lecturers.

Assessment

Throughout the course, you’ll receive opportunities to develop and improve your skills through both formative and summative assessments. These include preparing and delivering a short oral presentation and completing a written assignment.

100% coursework 

• An essay to assess your writing skills (60%)
• A speaking task representing (40%)

1. Use English grammar and vocabulary effectively in various academic contexts. 
2. Produce clear, coherent, well-structured text, both written and spoken, in appropriately academic language and style. 
3. Understand, take notes on, and respond critically to a range of texts, including multimodal texts, both in speaking and writing. 

To apply for this course, speak to your school and let them know you would like to enrol. In most schools, your Student Adviser can help you with course enrolment. Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis, so it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible. Your school will help complete the enrolment for you.