This course uses real people, real places, and real language from National Geographic content and TED talks to connect learners of English to the world. This course also helps foster students’ integrated listening and speaking skills in various social, cultural and academic situations as well as connect the thematic content to students’ lives and inspires critical thinking. Particularly, by the end of the course, students will develop listening skills through a variety of genres in authentic National Geographic content and TED talks and various strategies for speaking tasks in academic context. In addition, through speaking tasks, students will consolidate academic vocabulary and will develop strategies necessary for effective, real-world communication.