Business English: Meetings Course Syllabus

Overview: This course is designed to help beginners develop essential Business English skills specifically for participating in and managing meetings. You'll learn vocabulary, phrases, and protocols for both in-person and virtual meetings, as well as how to write professional proposals. The course includes interactive exercises, peer-reviewed assignments, and practical applications. With a total time commitment of approximately 23 hours, learners will build confidence in professional communication through structured modules and real-world scenarios.

Module 1: Introduction to Meetings

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Understanding the purpose and types of meetings
• Identifying characteristics of successful meetings
• Preparing agenda items and meeting objectives
• Participating effectively as a meeting attendee

Module 2: The Language of Meetings

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Using common phrases for starting and running meetings
• Expressing opinions, agreeing, and disagreeing professionally
• Managing discussions and time during meetings
• Handling interruptions and staying on topic

Module 3: Writing Proposals

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Structuring a formal business proposal
• Using appropriate vocabulary and tone in proposals
• Presenting ideas clearly and persuasively
• Reviewing and revising proposal drafts

Module 4: On-site and Virtual Meeting Protocols

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Understanding cultural expectations in meetings
• Following etiquette for in-person meetings
• Navigating teleconference and video call norms
• Using technology effectively during virtual meetings

Module 5: Email Communication for Meetings

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Writing clear meeting invitation emails
• Confirming attendance and sending reminders
• Summarizing meeting outcomes in follow-up emails

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 7 hours

• Planning and organizing a mock business meeting
• Writing a complete meeting proposal
• Participating in or leading a simulated meeting scenario

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of English grammar and vocabulary
• Familiarity with common workplace settings
• Access to email and video conferencing platforms for practice

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Effectively participate in and lead business meetings in English
• Use appropriate language and expressions during discussions
• Write well-organized and professional meeting proposals
• Apply proper etiquette in both on-site and virtual meetings
• Communicate clearly via email before, during, and after meetings