English for Maths Summer Programme

The English for Maths Summer Programme is aimed at maths students wishing to improve their English for use in a maths context. The course combines the discipline expertise of the University of Leicester’s Department of Computing and Mathematical Sciences with the language expertise of the English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU).

Aims of the English for Maths Summer Programme

The main aims of the course are to develop participants’ ability to communicate when using English in a maths context and to give an opportunity to experience mathematics in a British university. We focus on all four language skills – speaking, listening, reading and writing but the main emphasis will be on improving spoken English.

Students will receive an insight into the mathematical research at the University of Leicester, which includes pure mathematics, applied mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, computing and artificial intelligence (AI). The technical content of the Summer Programme will be structured as standalone seminars and lectures. For instance, you will work with academics on a range of topics. Previous topics include the mathematics of artificial intelligence, the use of mathematics in actuarial science, the application of rigour in numerical modelling, and more.

Why join the English for Maths Summer Programme?

• Improve your English skills specifically for use in a maths setting
• Experience studying in a UK maths school, including sessions in computer laboratories focusing on topics such as data mining, coding and analysis
• Develop general English language skills for everyday communication
• Maximum class size of 16 students
• Up to 19 hours of face-to-face taught classes per week on the University of Leicester campus. Classes generally take place between 9.15am-10.45am, 11.15am-12.45pm and 2.00pm-4.00pm
• Enhance your research and academic study skills
• Find out what it’s like to study at a British university situated in the heart of the UK

Course description

This intensive course primarily focuses on language used in maths contexts. Participants will be provided with opportunities to use and discover new maths vocabulary and structures in different situations and genres throughout the programme, from surveying academic papers to presenting their own research project.

This specially designed three-week course combines:

• A course welcome and induction day
• General English classes to improve your vocabulary and confidence in interacting with English language speakers in everyday life, with particular emphasis on speaking and listening skills
• Academic English classes where you will learn how to design and present an academic poster, culminating in the showcasing of your work in a research exhibition
• Computer laboratory sessions led by the staff from the Maths department
• Guest lectures focusing on topics such as AI and robotics, Pythagorean Theorem, and the application of well-known equations
• Evening social activities
• Day trips to places of interest

Key facts

Dates for summer 2024

• Monday 22 July – Friday 9 August 2024 (accommodation available from Sunday 21 July – Saturday 10 August 2024) 

Entry requirements

• Participants must be aged 18 or over
• Participants must be maths students

Expectations on the course

• Show willingness to engage with tutors and students during class
• Attend all sessions on the timetable

Accommodation

• Accommodation will be in self-catered flats within walking distance of the campus and the city centre
• Participants will be housed in a single study bedroom with ensuite bathroom and will share kitchen facilities. All bills and Wi-Fi access are included. Bedding and kitchen equipment are provided.

Cost

• £1,950 – joint institute partners
• £2,100 – partners
• £2,200- non partners

Payment is required in full to accept a place on the course. Payment deadline: Sunday 26 May 2024.

What's included

• Maths and academic English classes
• Airport transfers
• Two day trips to places of interest such as London and Oxford
• Three social events, including a welcome dinner and farewell party
• All study materials
• Self-catered student accommodation – single bedroom with ensuite bathroom and shared kitchen. Bedding and kitchen equipment provided
• Registration giving access to University of Leicester facilities, including the award-winning David Wilson Library
• Summer Programme T-shirt
• A statement of completion and written feedback
• Closing ceremony with prize giving

What's not included

• Meals and beverages, unless specified in the timetable
• Towels and toiletries
• Visa costs
• Medical and travel insurance
• Access to the university gyms. Short term membership can be purchased at a cost of £10 per week.

Cancellation/refund policy after acceptance of offer

• Up to 16 June 2024 - Full refund
• 17 June - 30 June 2024 - Half refund
• 1 July 2024 of after - No refund