English for STEM: Understanding Science Vocabulary

Improve your English vocabulary in the main science subjects

This three-week course from Macquarie University EMI Centre will help you improve your English language ability as you develop your understanding of key science topics in physics, chemistry, and biology.

You’ll learn essential science vocabulary through videos, quizzes, and reading texts to help you master pronunciation, word form, and use.

The materials are designed to help you as an English language learner to understand new science vocabulary for your future studies. You’ll explore mechanics and gravity in preparation for physics, examine atoms and gases as you learn about chemistry, and uncover the living world and cells in biology.

Explore strategies to advance your language skills

Each week, you’ll focus on learning science vocabulary in context as you look at different word forms (noun, verb, adjective, adverb), listen to the pronunciation and see, hear, and practise the stressed syllable. You’ll learn about strategies for recording and revising new vocabulary and use interactive tools (like Quizlet) to do this.

You’ll also learn how to interpret written and visual texts on scientific topics, as well as key grammar, to help you improve your ability to read, listen, write, and speak in English.

Improve your academic skills

Each week, you’ll develop important academic skills to prepare you for studying in English. You’ll learn how to listen to lectures, understand lab reports, and give presentations.

Learn from the experts at Macquarie University

Throughout the course, you’ll have many opportunities to practise to ensure you master the new vocabulary.

Guided by a language trainer and a science trainer from Macquarie University EMI centre, you’ll finish the course with the confidence to use scientific vocabulary in real-life settings.

This course is designed for learners and educators who are studying or teaching an area of science and would like to develop their English language ability in this area.

It is most suitable for learners who have an intermediate CEFR B1 level of English.