Jeremy Paxman: 'The English. A Portrait of a People.'

We will read together this extremely interesting book in order to find out what kind of people the British are, and why. History shapes all people, and we begin by taking a brief look at the British history, which practically has an effect on all nations and peoples. The view of the English about themselves and foreigners, as well as the British customs and beliefs will also be revealed to us by this fascinating book.

You will read a chapter every two weeks, 11 chapters altogether, and answer about three or four questions concerning each chapter. An online vocabulary will be given to the participants, and it will help you understand English expressions, historical, and new or infrequent words; some explanations are only in English. In some course modules, you will keep a learning journal where you comment your progression and thoughts as well. The learning journal can be written either in English or Finnish, about 1,5 - 2 pages in the end of the fall term, and another one in the end of the spring term.

'The English. A Portrait of a People.' is an online course with one meeting in the beginning, so that everyone can join us. The material will be shared on Google+, and the questions created by Google Forms, so all that you need is a gmail-address and great enthusiasm for reading and exploring the 'Englishness'! Book: Jeremy Paxman: 'The English. A Portrait of a People.' (266 pages), and the online vocabulary for the participants (almost 200 pages; explanations partly only in English). Level: intermediate & advanced (B1 & B2).