About English 1

The resources related to International English have now been revised. Some resources have been updated, but most of the material for English 1 is new. Several outdated articles have been replaced by more up-to-date material. We have also added more literature and films, and we have tried to create more tasks that provide the opportunity to dig deeper.

Below, you will find an outline of some of the changes that have been implemented.

Language learning

When you complete high school, you are likely to continue your education at a university in Norway or abroad. As you enter tertiary education, you will meet a more academic, formal, and subject-specific English. English 1 aims to prepare you for this. We have therefore developed several resources that will help you improve your command of the English language by polishing your grammar skills, improving your vocabulary, and helping you appreciate the difference between formal and informal English.

In-depth learning and critical use of sources

The new lesson plan emphasises the importance of in-depth learning, and this is reflected in many of the tasks made for English 1. In these tasks, you are encouraged to dig deeper, find more information, and put this information into context. Critical thinking and a critical approach to sources is a very central part of the subject.

Text production

When you write, you want to capture your reader’s attention and get your point across clearly. This is not always easy, and it requires practice. How do you manage to create coherence and cohesion in your text? How do you write good introductions and conclusions? Why is it so important to vary your language in a text? English 1 at NDLA has a variety of resources that will make it easier for you to construct clear and well-structured texts.

Communication

We know that languages are best learnt in collaboration with others, and it is important that you feel you can try and fail together with your peers. Therefore, many of the provided tasks encourage cooperation with other students, and you are often asked to provide peer feedback in pairs or in small groups.

Literature and film

You will find a wide selection of short stories, poems, blogs, self-help texts, and excerpts from novels, all with related tasks and activities. We have also included a number of feature films and documentaries that will shed light on various topics and current issues that are often taught in the classroom.

Podcasts

In addition to films, literature, and various articles, you will also find two podcast series that can be used as listening exercises or as introductions to their respective topics. The first one addresses the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while the second will give you samples of different variants of English around the world.

Interdisciplinary topic

The interdisciplinary topic Democracy and Citizenship is well taken care of through topics like human rights, poverty, racism, democracy around the world, and the role of the media in democratic societies.

We have tried to create a structure that is clear and easy to navigate. The material for English 1 has been divided into six main folders:

• Issues and debates

• Varieties of English

• Literature and film

• Media and international communication

• Improving your language

• Text development

You will find that a resource is usually divided into two parts: an article (subject material) and tasks / activities. Use 'Related Content' at the end of the article or the menu to navigate between the two.

We hope that you will find the material interesting, educational, fun, and challenging.