Congratulations, Christine, on becoming a tutor of the course English – Learning to Hear, Speak and Read English at U3AM. Please tell us a bit about yourself and your professional background.

My main qualification is in Arts and Crafts. I have a Graduate Diploma in Special Education (Art and Textiles). I have taught Arts and Crafts at secondary school level.

Please outline your course, and who would benefit from it.

This course is different from other language courses offered at U3AM. It is designed to assist members who do not know any English. It is for people who do not know the letters of the alphabet, the correct sound of the letters, and are not able to accurately pronounce words. The course will teach them to speak by listening to how words are spoken in English, distinguishing the sounds, and making instant responses to the letters, and to letter combinations in words. In this way, participants will learn the correct pronunciation of words and phrases.

In time, participants will learn to build words from syllables that they vocalise and learn to pronounce correctly. They will learn the meanings of words along the way, and will build up a vocabulary that enables them to make simple conversation. At first, this will be with members of their class. Eventually, it will help them to communicate their needs relating to public transport, shopping and asking their way.

Date and time

The English – Learning to Hear, Speak and Read English course will be held in 2026 every Wednesday from 9:00 to 10:20 am in Room 18 at The Pines Learning and Activity Centre.

Shirley Fung
New Course Coordinator