A Guide to English-speaking Countries is a general education course for college students and adult learners. This course gives a full picture of the major English-speaking countries by systematically introducing the history, geography, government, economy, culture and language development of the countries like U.K. and the U.S.. This course is given in English. It aims to increase students' awareness of and their flexibility in dealing with cultural differences, develop students' intercultural communication skills and improve their English language proficiency.
Instead of using the traditional country-based design, The course content is organized by subjects and themes. Key words and terminologies are assorted in glossary to provide language reference to those in need. Learners take this course by watching on-line lectures, taking practice tests and having related discussions in the online forum with others from around the world.
Unit 1 Glossary
1.1 UK：Geography features and major cities
1.2 US：Geography features and major cities
1.3 Ethnic Groups
1.4 Language
1.5 British English v.s. American English
Unit 2 History
Unit 2 Glossary
2.1 People
2.2 The Thrones
2.3 U.K.: The Empire
2.4 U.S.: The Discovery and Colonies
2.5 U.S.:the Independence
2.6 U.S.:The Civil War
Unit 3 Politics
Unit 3 Glossary
3.1 U.K.: The monarchy, the government and political parties
3.2 American Political System
3.3 American Democracy
3.4 Exciting Campaigns, Electrifying Speeches
Unit 4 Economy and technology
Unit 4 Glossary
4.1 The U.K.: Economy
4.2 the U.S.： Economy
4.3 The U.S.: Technology
Unit 5 Education
Unit 5 Glossary
5.1 The History of Education, Educational Policy and Educational System
5.2 Higher Education and Famous Universities
5.3 Go to British and American Universities: A Conversation
Unit 6 Popular Culture
Unit 6 Glossary
6.1 Hollywood
6.2 British and American Televisions
6.3 Press and Social Media
6.4 Popular Music
Unit 7 Social Life (1)
Unit 7 Glossary
7.1 Life and Customs
7.2 Religions
7.3 British Holidays
7.4 American Holidays
Unit 8 Social Life (2)
Unit 8 Glossary
8.1 Sports
8.2 British Pubs and American Bars
8.3 Entertainment and Recreation
8.4 Travel
Unit 9 Canada
9.1 Geography and History
9.2 Government and Economy
9.3 Society and Culture
Unit 10 Ireland
10.1 Geography and History
10.2 Government, Economy and Culture
Unit 11 Australia
11.1 Geography and History
11.2 Government, Economy and Culture
Unit 12 New Zealand
Final Exam
