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Reading about economics in English: how it levels up your language skills

Issue 41 p. 40
Jennifer Harpur
Reading about economics in English: how it levels up your language skills

The TSE L3 English course aims to improve students' reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills necessary for further academic study, internships, and the professional world. Students develop grammar and vocabulary tailored to their level while practising confidence-building, critical thinking, working together in pairs and teams. Students expand their vocabulary on current economic topics and world affairs as well as topics of personal interest. We aim to enhance oral fluency, confidence, and communication skills through public speaking, presentations, and group discussions.

Why I included a book in the L3 English programme?

Research on language learning shows one simple truth: we learn to read by reading. The more you read, the better reader and language user you become. But as importantly, extensive reading doesn't just boost comprehension. It's one of the fastest ways to:

1. Build vocabulary — You need to encounter a word 15-20 times in different contexts before it really sticks. Reading gives you those encounters naturally.
2. Absorb grammar — Syntax patterns sink in without memorising rules.
3. Improve listening and speaking — Strong readers understand spoken English more easily and speak with greater confidence.
4. Enhance writing skills — Exposure to authentic English naturally shapes and strengthens your style.
5. Enjoy learning — When you get into the flow of a book, you stop "studying" and simply experience the language.

That's why, as part of this programme, we've included a book in English on economics: it develops your language skills, sharpens academic abilities, and broadens your horizons at the same time. Research strongly supports that reading improves English proficiency, essential for advancing from B2 to C1 or C1 to C2 levels, and is sure to help you further your career and master's program opportunities. Reading improves language skills needed for exams that determine master's program entry. Reading economics-specific English texts trains handling specialized vocabulary and complex ideas.

Books and Cakes Day

To encourage students to read books outside class we organize a Books and Cakes Day in November and a Book-Self Photo Contest in March every year. We appreciate your active participation in these events.

Keep up the good work, everyone!