English for Academic Purposes

Course Overview

Our ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) program at Cocoon International College helps international students improve their English skills for academic or vocational studies. The program focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking, providing a strong foundation for success in Certificate III, IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or university-level studies.

We offer two levels: AEP 1 and AEP 2, depending on the student’s existing English proficiency. While students may enter directly into AEP 2 if their skills meet the requirements, it is encouraged to complete the full program to gain the maximum benefit and ensure thorough preparation. With tailored strategies and expert guidance, students develop the confidence to excel in academic and professional settings in Australia and beyond.

Course Name: English for Academic Purposes
 
CRICOS Code: 117304A
 
Course Level: Non AQF Award
 
Delivery Mode: Face-to-face classroom delivery (3 days a week)
 
Course Duration: Varies (Typically 12 to 24 weeks, depending on the student’s initial English proficiency level)
 
 
Pathways to Further Studies:
The ELICOS program equips students with the English proficiency needed to pursue further studies, such as Certificate IV, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma courses in the health and community services sector or related fields.
 

Entry Requirements:

  • Minimum Age: 18 years
  • Educational Background: Year 10 equivalent
  • English Proficiency: Students entering EAP 1 are expected to have an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5 (with no band below 5.0).
 

Assessment Methodology:

The ELICOS program employs diverse assessment methods, including:

  • Written tasks
  • Examinations
  • Observations in simulated environments
 

AEP 1 Units

Week 1: Academic Orientation and Styles of Learning
Introduction to academic English, study strategies, and adapting to different learning styles.

Week 2: Problems in the Natural World
Building vocabulary and comprehension skills through reading and writing about environmental issues.

Week 3: Language and Communication
Developing speaking and listening skills for effective communication in academic and social contexts.

Week 4: The Information Age
Enhancing research and critical thinking skills while learning to analyse information sources.

Week 5: On Budget
Practicing practical English for budgeting, including numeracy and financial vocabulary.

Week 6: Being Objective
Learning to write clear, unbiased arguments and analyse texts critically.

Week 7: Innovation
Expanding vocabulary and improving creative thinking through discussions and written tasks.

Week 8: Sensing and Understanding
Building reading comprehension and inference skills through diverse texts.

Week 9: IT Issues
Improving technical vocabulary and writing skills related to technology and problem-solving.

Week 10: Culture Shock
Focusing on listening and speaking skills to navigate and adapt to cultural differences.

 
AEP 2 Units
Week 11: Academic Orientation and Choices and Implications
Developing English skills for academic decision-making and understanding study pathways.

Week 12: Risk and Hazards
Building reading and writing skills by analysing texts on managing risks and hazards.

Week 13: Language and Communication
Advancing conversational and formal communication skills for academic settings.

Week 14: Difference and Diversity
Enhancing listening and reading skills through discussions on diversity and inclusion.

Week 15: The World We Live In
Practicing descriptive and narrative writing to explore global topics.

Week 16: Behaving the Way We Do
Improving analytical and reflective writing skills on topics of behavior and psychology.

Week 17: Innovation
Developing persuasive writing and speaking skills through discussions on innovation.

Week 18: Work and Equality
Exploring workplace communication and vocabulary related to fairness and equity.

Week 19: Controversies
Enhancing debate and critical analysis skills in reading and writing about contentious issues.

Week 20: Health
Practicing reading, writing, and speaking about health and well-being topics in academic contexts.

Our ELICOS program uses a variety of assessment methods to measure progress and ensure competency in academic English skills. These include:

Written Tasks:
Assessments such as essays, reports, summaries, and reflective evaluations test students’ ability to organise ideas, use academic vocabulary, and apply referencing techniques.

Observation:
Trainers evaluate participation in class activities, discussions, and presentations to assess communication, collaboration, and practical language use.

Listening Tasks:
Students are assessed on their ability to understand academic lectures and discussions through summarisation, note-taking, and comprehension exercises.

Examinations: Written and oral exams test grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and speaking skills relevant to academic contexts.

The ELICOS program at Cocoon International College is delivered through a face-to-face learning model with structured classroom-based instruction.

  • Classroom Delivery: Students attend 20 hours of scheduled contact per week, engaging in interactive sessions with trainers and peers to develop their English skills.
  • Independent Study: Outside the classroom, students are encouraged to undertake independent study and research to reinforce their learning and build confidence in academic English.
  • Tutorial Support: Weekly tutorial support sessions are available to provide additional guidance, answer questions, and address individual learning needs.

Unlike vocational qualifications, the ELICOS program does not include a practical or vocational placement component. The focus is on developing academic English skills in a supportive and structured classroom environment

Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll help with the rest. Our convenient online application tool only takes 10 minutes to complete.

After you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you and will help you to complete the process.

Once you’ve completed your application and connected with an admissions representative, you’re ready to create your schedule.

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Are you ready to take the next step toward your future career?