English communication skills - improve your confidence and fluency when you speak (entry 3-level 1)

What is the course about?

This course helps you become a more fluent and confident user of English. You’ll explore what fluency means for you and practise speaking and writing in situations you regularly encounter—at home, at work, or with friends. The emphasis is on clear, natural communication over accuracy or language perfection. You’ll practise responding spontaneously and confidently—even in unexpected or unfamiliar situations. By the end of the course, you’ll speak with fewer pauses like “um” or “err” and communicate more smoothly.

What will we cover?

· Responding to both familiar and unfamiliar situations, e.g. when approached by someone in public

· Managing conflict or difficult conversations from daily life

· Developing vocabulary and natural expressions

· Writing messages quickly and spontaneously

· Speaking and writing at the same time, e.g. taking notes during meetings

· Using linking words and language “chunks” to sound more fluent

· Pausing naturally and clearly when speaking

· Asking clear questions with accurate pronunciation

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

· Respond more confidently and spontaneously in both familiar and unfamiliar situations

· Handle challenging or sensitive conversations with more ease and control

· Use a wider range of vocabulary and natural expressions in context

· Write short messages, notes, and emails quickly and clearly

· Take part in conversations that require listening, note-taking, and speaking at the same time

· Use linking words and natural pauses to improve fluency and understanding

· Ask clear, purposeful questions using accurate grammar and pronunciation

· Communicate with more confidence and less hesitation in real-life situations

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is for learners at Entry 3 or Level 1 (CEFR B1 intermediate to B2 upper intermediate). You should be able to take part in everyday conversations, understand general spoken and written English, and want to improve your vocabulary and fluency for more natural communication.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will learn in a friendly and supportive classroom environment. Lessons are active and practical, with lots of speaking opportunities in pairs and groups. The tutor will guide you through step-by-step tasks that help build confidence and fluency. You will develop key life and work skills like decision-making, problem-solving, and teamwork.

You’ll also receive individual feedback and support. Homework and practice using Google Classroom will help reinforce your learning between sessions.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You’ll need a pen, a notepad or notebook or a folder to organise your work. The tutor will provide handouts and a code for Google Classroom. Access to a computer will also be helpful.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

There are many courses you can do before, at the same time or after this course:

· Communication Skills for Life and Work (ESOL Entry 3 - Level 1)

· Grammar in practice: intermediate (entry 3-level 1)

· Grammar in practice: upper intermediate (level 1-2)

· Conversation Club

· ESOL: Learn English and learn about London, its people and your rights (entry 3-level 1) (Term 2 only)

· Learn English - discover London, its history, culture and people (level 1-level 2)

· Communication skills: developing your writing, speaking and digital skills through creating a radio programme (ESOL level 1-2)

· ESOL and making podcasts: pronunciation, presentation, expression (level 1-2) (Term 3 only)

· Develop your writing and language skills (level 1-level 2) (Term 1 & Term 3)

· ESOL - Communications skills for life and work - Entry 3 (Speaking & Listening, Writing) ACCREDITED COURSE

· ESOL - Communication skills for life and work - Level 1 (Speaking & Listening, Writing) ACCREDITED COURSE

Your tutor will help you choose the right next course during progression week.

For more information, ask your tutor or contact universal.skills@citylit.ac.uk / 020 7492 2511.