TASK 1: My experience at NED University in terms of Functional English course My experience at NED University in terms of Functional English course was quite good and it had surpassed my expectations. My course teacher was Miss Ruqia Shah and over the course of the semester, I learned a variety of skills that have helped me become a better communicator and more confident speaker. One of the most valuable aspects of the course was learning how to express myself more clearly and effectively in both writing and speaking. I learned how to structure sentences and paragraphs, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and make my writing more concise and readable. Additionally, I learned how to present my ideas and opinions more confidently and persuasively, which has helped me in both academic and professional settings. Another important aspect of the course was learning how to listen and comprehend English spoken at a natural pace. Through listening exercises and activities, I improved my listening comprehension skills, which has made it easier for me to understand conversations and lectures in English. I also learned how to ask for clarification and express myself when I didn't understand something, which has made me a more confident communicator. Overall, my experience in the functional English course has been incredibly valuable. I have learned new skills and improved my confidence in communicating in English. I feel more equipped to participate in academic and professional settings and look forward to continuing to develop my English skills in the future. TASK 2: What do you expect to learn in this course (Academic Reading and Writing)? Firstly, I would like to learn how to read and analyze academic texts critically. Academic texts are often dense, complex, and difficult to understand, and I need to learn how to read them actively, extract key information, and analyze the arguments presented in them. Secondly, l would like to learn how to write in different academic genres, such as research papers, essays, and reports. Each genre has specific conventions and requirements, and I need to learn skills of how to write clearly, logically, and persuasively in each of them. This involves developing skills such as outlining, drafting, editing, and proofreading, as well as mastering the art of argumentation, evidence-based writing, and critical thinking. Page | 1 Thirdly, I would like to learn how to communicate ideas effectively in academic settings. This involves learning how to present ideas orally and in writing, how to use evidence to support arguments, and how to engage in academic discourse with other scholars. Fourthly, I would like to learn research skills, including how to find and evaluate sources, how to synthesize information from multiple sources, and how to use research to support writing. This involves learning how to use academic databases, evaluate sources for credibility and reliability, and how to incorporate research findings into their writing. TASK 3: How important and relevant is this course to you? Academic reading and writing is highly important and relevant to anyone pursuing higher education or planning to enter a career that requires strong communication and critical thinking skills. Here are a few reasons why an academic reading and writing course is essential for me: 1. Academic success: One of the primary goals of an academic reading and writing course is to help me succeed in my academic pursuits. Academic writing requires a different set of skills and conventions than everyday writing, and learning how to write well is essential for achieving good grades and meeting the expectations of instructors and professors. 2. Career readiness: In today's highly competitive job market, strong communication and critical thinking skills are highly valued by employers. The ability to write clearly, persuasively, and analytically is crucial for many careers, including business, law, education, journalism, and more. 3. Intellectual growth: Academic reading and writing courses are designed to develop critical thinking skills, which are essential for intellectual growth and development. Learning how to evaluate evidence, analyze arguments, and construct well-supported arguments are skills that will surely serve me well throughout my academic and professional life. 4. Personal development: This course will help me to develop personally by improving my ability to express myself, think critically, and communicate effectively with others. These skills are important not only for academic and professional success but also for personal growth and development. Page | 2 Academic Reading and Writing Page | 3