Learning resources
Course books and materials
Most of the materials used on our courses are prepared using authentic (i.e. real life) sources, which are topical and typical of our living and working environment. For example, extracts from TV, radio, film, literature and the press as well as from appropriate academic sources. We also use recognised EAP course books and materials written especially for students studying English for academic purposes. You will be provided with the necessary books and materials in your classes. You will also be referred to additional exercises or sources of information, most of which are available in the Study Skills sections in the Learning Resources Centre at Penrhyn Road and the Kingston Hill Nightingale Centre.
Books to buy
Please ensure that you purchase a good monolingual English dictionary such as the Collins Cobuild English Language Dictionary or the Oxford English Dictionary for advanced learners. Your English Language Tutors will be happy to advise you on the purchase of other English language learning books and materials for your own use. These can usually be obtained from:
Waterstone's BookshopBentalls Centre
Kingston upon Thames
Using the Internet
There are many web sites giving practice exercises in all aspects of English grammar. Most are designed for students with limited knowledge of English so do be selective. Useful, additional help can be found at:
- Using English for Academic Purposes
- The Phrase Finder: English phrases, sayings, idioms and clichés
- Common Errors in English
- English Club Pronunciation: Online Pronunciation Guide for English
- Links to Grammatical or Literate Websites
The language lab (MB316)
The language laboratory is located on the 3rd floor of the Main Building at the Penrhyn Road site. It is primarily used for teaching, but is available open-access to students at other times.
