Abstract

This paper delineates a step-by-step procedure for designing an English course for Yemeni school graduates to improve their English language skills before joining university. A significant problem is that most students graduate from schools with weak background in English. A survey has been conducted through a well-structured questionnaire among 100 newly passed out school graduates. The purpose of this questionnaire is to determine what the language needs of school graduates are, whether these are being adequately met or not and if not, what can be done to achieve the same. After assessing the needs of the learners, the findings reveal that learners always have difficulties in four language skills while learning English. The information gathered during the fact-finding stage is utilized by the researcher to establish the course objectives and prepare outlines for the new course. The course content provides students with variety of activities sequencing from simple to complex and including listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Learners are expected to reach a level through which they can communicate effectively in both oral and written mode.

Key words: Bridge course, School graduates, Learners’ needs