English for learning
Are you studying an OU module but are worried that your academic English is not good enough? English for learning provides support and guidance on improving your language skills and helps you discover how academic English is used in OU study.
If you haven't studied with the OU before, our companion site English for OU study, introduces academic English to those considering study with us. It includes activities to help you assess your language skills and uses some sample texts from Level 1 modules.
- English language and OU study - if you are concerned about your skill level and how it may affect your studies.
- Difficulties with English language - overcoming the reasons why people may have problems.
- Using English language - improve your reading, writing, listening or speaking.
- How is academic English used in your course? - examples of OU course materials will give an indication of what's expected.
- Test your English language ability - online diagnostics and tests to check your proficiency.
- Further links and resources for English - useful websites and printed material to help you develop your English skills.
English for academic purposes online (L185)
You could take English for academic purposes online (L185), a 30 point, level 1 course that will help you to develop your skills of reading, writing and communicating in academic English. L185 can be taken as a degree programme in a range of disciplines. It is different from subject-based Openings courses in that it offers support and development of academic English. It draws material from many different OU courses and prepares students to work with a wide range of academic texts, including spoken presentations.
Booklet
This booklet complements what you will find on this website. If you are an OU student and would like a printed copy of this booklet, contact your regional centre.
You will need your OU computer username and password to access the booklet.
Assessment query
Check out the Assessment site for help with queries about the assessment of your studies with the Open University.
Activities
We have English language activities you can work through. You will need your OU computer username and password to access these. They are on license to us from Southampton University.
Listen to OU web pages
If you find it easier to listen than to read or need help pronouncing words, try Browsealoud on any OU web page.