http://www.academic-englishuk.com/

Academic English UK, Exeter (2026)

21/09/2026

AI in University: So What Are We Assessing, the Student or the Technology?

We do not yet know what university education will look like in a world shaped by AI, but in the meantime, how do we know what our students can do? AI is becoming increasingly difficult to control in the English language classroom. Assignments, research projects and presentations are increasingly being produced or polished with generative AI. Students are also becoming increasingly savvy, asking AI to include mistakes, simplify language or write at their expected level.

AI is no longer a marginal issue in higher education. It is now close to universal. The latest HEPI Student Generative AI Survey found that 95% of students use AI in some form, while 94% use generative AI to help with assessed work.

For international students, the issue can go even further. Jisc reports that non English speaking students are using tools such as DeepL and Google Translate to translate texts and support their understanding. Students are also using AI to generate ideas, structure arguments, proofread and improve their written work.

This creates a fundamental problem for language assessment: how do we know whether we are assessing the student’s English or the technology they have used?

At Academic English UK, we have started developing handwritten, timed assessments using unseen academic sourcesas a practical response. Without access to AI, students have to read, think, organise and write for themselves. These are key skills in academic language development and are reflected in the CEFR, including the ability to process information, synthesise ideas and communicate meaning effectively.

We do not yet know what university education and assessment will look like in five or ten years. AI is developing rapidly, and universities are still working out how it should be used, taught and assessed. But while that future is still uncertain, we need reliable ways to understand what our students can actually do.

For EAP and second language learners, a simple paper and pen assessment using unseen material provides one way of doing this. It gives teachers an opportunity to see the vocabulary, grammar, sentence control, cohesion and academic expression students can produce independently.

https://academic-englishuk.com/academic-source-based-writing-tests/

The future of education with AI remains uncertain. For now, perhaps the best approach is to embrace the possibilities of AI while also making sure we do not lose sight of the value of seeing students think and write for themselves. Sometimes, that means putting the technology aside, giving them a sheet of paper and seeing what they can do.

Chris Wilson
AEUK

Sources:
https://www.hepi.ac.uk/reports/student-generative-ai-survey-2026/
https://www.jisc.ac.uk/reports/student-perceptions-of-ai-2025

24/08/2026

ACADEMIC SOURCE-BASED WRITING TESTS
This month, we’re delighted to introduce our Academic Source-Based Writing Tests; a new collection of unseen assessments designed to assess students’ ability to read, analyse and respond to multiple academic sources without the use of AI tools. Each test presents students with three contrasting sources and asks them to synthesise information, evaluate ideas and produce a focused academic response within a set time.

GO HERE: https://academic-englishuk.com/academic-source-based-writing-tests/

The assessments provide a more AI-resistant approach to academic writing assessment, as students must work directly with unseen source material during the test rather than relying on pre-prepared content or AI-generated responses. Suitable for learners from B2 to C2, these ready-to-use tests are ideal for diagnostic, formative or summative assessment. Try our free sample test on mobile phones and student learning and see how the assessments work for yourself. Simply scroll down and start exploring!

> IMPORTANT: These tests are available exclusively through Institutional Membership. This means they are protected from student access and can be used as secure formative or summative assessments.

PURPOSE AND ASSESSMENT FOCUS
The assessment is designed to measure key academic skills required for university study, where students are expected to combine information from multiple texts and construct evidence-based arguments.

B2–C2 levels
The difference between levels is reflected in the quality and depth of students’ responses. The following guide adapted from the CEFR Descriptors is what is expected at each level.

B2 LEVEL:
> Demonstrate clear understanding of the sources.
> Identify key similarities and differences.
> Explain advantages and disadvantages.
> Support ideas using relevant evidence.

C1 LEVEL:
>Synthesise information from multiple sources.
>Evaluate different viewpoints.
>Develop a clear academic argument.
> Integrate evidence effectively.

C2 Level:
> Critically evaluate sources and arguments.
> Recognise limitations and assumptions.
> Discuss wider implications.
> Develop a nuanced and well-supported position.

SAMPLE TEST: Smart Phones and Student Learning
This unseen integrated reading-to-writing assessment requires students to read three contrasting academic sources and use the information to produce a 300–500-word academic response. The test includes a clear test brief, student instructions, three contrasting sources, and assessment criteria and marking guidance. Students have 60 minutes to read the sources, make notes, and write their response.
FREE DOWNLOAD:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/SAMPLE-WRITING-TEST-Smart-phones-and-student-learning-AEUK-1.pdf

MORE TESTS - GO HERE: https://academic-englishuk.com/academic-source-based-writing-tests/

20/07/2026

TED TALK AI LISTENING WORKSHEETS (Free Lesson)
Hi everyone,
This month, we're delighted to introduce our 5 TED Talk AI Listening Worksheets; a ready to use collection designed to bring authentic academic listening into your classroom. Each lesson helps students develop essential listening, note taking and critical thinking skills through engaging TED Talks, supported by carefully scaffolded activities. Every worksheet includes pre listening vocabulary, structured note-taking pages, comprehension tasks and differentiated discussion activities suitable for learners from B1 to C2. Better still, you can try one lesson completely free (available for a limited time). Simply scroll down.

WEBPAGE LINK: https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-listening-lessons/

TED TALKS TOPICS
1. WHY AI ISN"T GOING TO BE CONSCIOUS
The lecture explores the relationship between artificial intelligence, intelligence, and consciousness. The speaker argues that although AI systems can appear highly intelligent, consciousness is fundamentally linked to biological processes and cannot simply be recreated in machines.

2. HOW TO STOP AL FROM KILLING CRITICAL THINKING
The lecture explores the impact of artificial intelligence on human thinking and examines how excessive reliance on AI can weaken creativity, memory, and critical thinking skills.

3. THREE POSSIBLE FUTURES FOR AI: WHICH WILL YOU CHOOSE?
The lecture explores three possible futures shaped by artificial intelligence: corporate dominance, global conflict, or international cooperation.

4. WILL AI TAKE YOUR JOB IN TEN YEARS? WRONG QUESTION
The lecture explores how artificial intelligence is transforming the workplace and argues that the real issue is how humans and AI will work together. The speaker discusses AI agents, workplace change, upskilling, and the human qualities that will remain valuable in an AI-driven future.

5. WHY HUMANS SHOULD MERGE WITH AI
The lecture explores the idea that humans and artificial intelligence must increasingly integrate in order to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The speaker draws on examples from biology, evolution, and technology to argue that human–AI collaboration may be the next major step in human development.

For Individual Downloads - go here:
https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-listening-lessons/

FREE DOWNLOAD LESSON
TED TALK: 3 POSSIBLE FUTURES FOR AI
Level: *** [B1/B2/C1] / Video: https://www.ted.com/talks/alvin_w_graylin_manoush_zomorodi_3_possible_futures_for_ai_which_will_we_choose [10:25]
DOWNLOAD HERE:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/TED-Talk-3-possible-futures-for-AI-—-which-will-we-choose-AEUK.pdf

FIVE LESSON BOOK
BUY NOW (£15): https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/5x-ted-talks-on-ai-pdf-worksheets-download/

MORE AI-THEMED LESSONS
HERE: https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-in-education/

All the best,
The AEUK Team

14/06/2026

ACADEMIC SPEAKING TESTS (Topic AI)
Hi everyone, we’re excited to introduce the AI Academic Speaking Tests workbook: a complete speaking package designed to build students’ fluency, confidence, and critical thinking skills while exploring one of the most important topics this year: artificial intelligence.

Webpage Link: https://academic-englishuk.com/speaking-tests-on-ai/

5 SPEAKING TESTS
This ready-to-use resource includes five academic speaking tests covering AI in education, everyday life, the future, social media, and vocabulary learning. Each test follows a structured four-part format featuring interview questions, photograph comparisons, collaborative decision-making tasks, and discussion questions. The booklet also includes teacher’s notes, assessment guidance, and visually engaging task materials suitable for both face-to-face and online teaching.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
Students will discuss thought-provoking questions such as whether AI will change the role of teachers, how AI might transform society, whether governments should regulate AI, and which AI tools are most beneficial for learning. These engaging tasks encourage students to develop ideas, justify opinions, compare alternatives, and communicate confidently in an academic context while preparing for university speaking assessments.

WHAT ARE SPEAKING TESTS?
These academic AI speaking tests are similar to the Cambridge B2 First (FCE) speaking exam but follow a university-based narrative. These tests (or lessons) provide valuable speaking practice around the impacts of AI in university life and study. Each test is divided into four parts; general AI questions, photograph comparison, a task and opinion based questions.

EXAMPLE:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AI-Speaking-Tests-EXAMPLE-AEUK.pdf

BUY NOW (£12.50) https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/ai-speaking-tests-practice-x5-download/

FREE AI SPEAKING QUESTIONS:
This lesson develops students’ speaking fluency and critical thinking through engaging AI-related questions. Students explore personal experiences, ethical issues, and future developments in AI, making it an interactive and thought-provoking speaking lesson.
FREE DOWNLOAD:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AI-Speaking-Questions-AEUK.pdf

MORE INFORMATION ON ACADEMIC AI LESSONS:
Go here: https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-in-education/

Until next time.
All the best,
The AEUK TEAM

11/05/2026

COMMON IDIOMS USED IN LECTURES
We’re excited to introduce the "Common Idioms Used in Lectures" workbook: a complete teaching package designed to bridge the comprehension gap for your students.

Blog page: https://academic-englishuk.com/common-idioms-in-lectures/

This ready-to-use workbook provides 120-180 minutes of engaging material. It moves beyond rote memorisation, helping students actively identify, interpret, and apply the 28 most frequent idiomatic phrases heard in university lectures. The booklet includes a detailed teacher’s guide, introduction to idioms, gap-fill exercises, an authentic lecture, and structured speaking activities. All with clear answers and transcript.
It will empower your students to decode phrases like "let's tie all this together" and "to save time, I'll skip over this part" and "this is something you need to get to grips with" boosting their academic listening confidence and seminar participation.

WHAT IS AN IDIOM?
An idiom refers to its meaning as a whole, rather than the meanings of the individual words. In idioms, the literal meanings of the words often do not help you understand the actual meaning.
Example:
“It’s a piece of cake”
→ Literally: a slice of dessert ❌
→ Actual meaning: it’s very easy ✅

> add naturalness → native speakers use them frequently
> make speeches more engaging → they add colour and personality
> condense meaning → a short phrase can express a complex idea

LECTURE STRUCTURING IDIOMS
> “Let’s start by laying the groundwork…” (We’re starting with the fundamentals)
> “I’ll begin by touching on X, and then dive deeper into Y” (I’ll give a brief overview, then get into details)

LECTURE EMPHASISING
>“The bottom line is…” (This is the single most important conclusion of this point)
> “Let’s unpack that idea a bit more” (Let’s analyse this concept in detail)

LECTURE INVITING ENGAGEMENT
> “This is Food for thought” (Here’s an interesting idea for you to think about on your own)
> “Let me paint you a different picture” (Perfect for introducing a new analogy, especially a visual or more descriptive one)

LECTURE REFERENCING
> “The gold standard in this field is…” (The most original and influential study is…)
> “It’s a hotly debated topic” (There is significant disagreement among experts)

LECTURE SUMMARY
> “The take-home message here is…” (Directs the audience to the single most important takeaway or practical conclusion)
> “As a final thought…” (Explicitly frames what an insight you want the audience to retain)

IDIOM LESSON WORKBOOK
This 22-page workbook: Activities progress from identifying and interpreting idioms in context, to analysing their use in a 7-minute social media lecture, to applying them in speaking tasks.

EXAMPLE:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AEUK-Lecture-Idioms-EXAMPLE-AEUK.pdf

BUY NOW: https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/idioms-common-idioms-used-in-lectures-download/

07/02/2026

AI-SUPPORTED ACADEMIC READING 10-LESSON WORKBOOK (FREE WORKSHEET)
Hi everyone, we are pleased to introduce the AI-supported academic reading workbook, a practical resource designed to help international students develop strong, independent academic reading skills essential for university success.

The workbook provides a clear, structured skills pathway, moving from sentence-level understanding to paragraph and text analysis. Using neutral academic themes focused on education in the digital age, students can concentrate on how academic texts work rather than what they already know.

This resource directly complements the AI-Supported Academic Writing Workbook (see last post!) by developing the reading skills that underpin effective academic writing. Students learn to identify main ideas, supporting details, reference, cohesion, and stance; skills that are critical for reading journal articles, lectures and assessment tasks.

AI tools are integrated in a carefully controlled and transparent way to support checking, clarification and reflection rather than replace reading or interpretation. This ensures students remain cognitively engaged, build genuine academic judgement and develop confidence reading independently, all while maintaining academic integrity.

Ideal for EAP, foundation, pre-sessional and undergraduate support programmes.

Blog page: www.academic-englishuk.com/ai-supported-academic-reading

CONTENT: LANGUAGE FOCUS
1. Identifying main ideas.
2. Understanding supporting detail.
3. Distinguishing between key and minor information.
4. Recognising writer stance and hedging.
5. Understanding text organisation.
6. Interpreting reference and cohesion.
7. Interpreting description and process.

FREE LESSON: Recognising writer stance and hedging
Go here:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/AI-Supported-Reading-Workbook-FREE-AEUK.pdf

EXAMPLE: FULL 10-LESSON AI-SUPPORTED ACADEMIC READING BOOK
Go here:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/AI-Supported-Reading-Workbook-EXAMPLE-AEUK.pdf

BUY NOW £18: FULL 10-LESSON AI-SUPPORTED ACADEMIC READING BOOK
Go here: https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/ai-supported-academic-reading-10-lesson-workbook-download/

All the best,
The AEUK Team

28/01/2026

HOW TO USE A.I RESPONSIBLY IN ACDEMIC WRITING

As we are all aware, A.I has begun to significantly influence university education and learning.

While A.I offers many benefits, its impact on learning and writing development is increasingly being questioned.

The primary focus of this video is writing skills and English language development.

VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qbtd5cGCwH4

FREE VIDEO WORKSHEET: https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/AI-Supported-Writing-Workbook-FREE-VIDEO-LESSON-AEUK-1.docx

At present, the key issues associated with using A.I for university writing include:

1. REDUCED LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT:
A.I limits opportunities to practise academic grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure.

2. MISMATCH WITH ASSESSED LANGUAGE LEVEL: A.I output often exceeds a student’s demonstrated English proficiency, raising credibility concerns.

3. SUPERFICIAL UNDERSTANDING OF CONTENT: AI-generated text may mask gaps in subject knowledge and critical thinking.

4. WEAK ACADEMIC VOICE AND OWNERSHIP: Students may struggle to explain, defend, or revise AI-written work in tutorials or vivas.

5. RISK OF ACADEMIC CONTENT: Using A.I to generate assignments can be classified as contract cheating or professional fraud under university regulations.

So, to address these key issues, Academic English UK has developed an A.I.-supported academic writing workbook designed for international university students to strengthen sentence-and paragraph-level academic writing skills, enabling them to build confident control of academic language WITHOUT RELYING ON AI GENERATED CONTENT.

Hope this video is helpful!
All the best,
The AEUK team

20/01/2026

AI-SUPPORTED ACADEMIC WRITING 10-LESSON WORKBOOK
This AI-Supported Academic Writing Workbook is designed for international university students and develops sentence-and paragraph-level academic writing skills through the theme of education and learning in the digital age, with lessons progressing from accuracy and clarity to cohesion, hedging, and summary writing. Across ten structured lessons, students use AI tools responsibly to check, compare, and reflect on their writing, helping them build confident control of academic language without relying on AI to generate content.

GO HERE: https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-supported-academic-writing-workbook/

WHO IS IT FOR?
This workbook is designed for international students who are preparing for, or already studying on, university or college courses where English is the medium of instruction. It focuses on developing academic writing accuracy, clarity, and control, using the theme of education and learning in the digital age.
No specialist knowledge of education or technology is required. Each lesson combines a brief definition of the theme, sentence-level practice, and short writing tasks, allowing students to apply academic language features in meaningful and accessible contexts.

HOW LONG?
The time required will vary depending on the student’s level of English and prior academic experience. On average, each lesson is designed to take 45–60 minutes, including practice, writing and reflection activities.

CONTEXT
All lessons are set within the theme of education and learning in the digital age. Topics include digital learning environments, online tasks, feedback, student engagement, assessment, and the role of technology in higher education. This neutral academic context allows students to focus on developing academic writing skills without the need for specialist subject knowledge.

OUTCOMES
By the end of the workbook, students will be able to:
> write clearer and more accurate academic sentences and paragraphs.
use academic vocabulary, collocations and grammatical structures.
> apply hedging and cautious language appropriately.
> improve cohesion and logical flow within a paragraph.
> write concise academic summaries on education-related topics.
> produce a well-structured academic paragraph integrating accuracy, cohesion, nominalisation, and cautious language.
> reflect critically on how AI tools can support learning without replacing it.
The final lesson integrates the skills developed across the workbook, helping students demonstrate progress and prepare for further academic study.

SAMPLE LESSON:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/AI-Supported-Writing-Workbook-FREE-LESSON-AEUK.pdf

BUY NOW (£18): https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/ai-supported-aca…orkbook-download/

MORE INFORMATION: https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-supported-academic-writing-workbook/

06/01/2026

ACADEMIC ENGLISH UK 2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
Hi Everyone,
Welcome to our 2025 Achievements Newsletter!
2025 was an incredible year of growth, creativity, and impact. We proudly launched over 70 new resources, expanded our library with engaging YouTube videos, and most importantly received fantastic feedback from our amazing community.

NEW MATERIALS: https://academic-englishuk.com/new-resources-2025/

All of this momentum is powering us into 2026, and the year ahead is set to be even bigger and better. We are excited to continue creating, innovating, and supporting you with even more valuable content.
Watch this space. 2025 was just getting started...

Thank you everyone for your continued support.
Happy new year!
The AEUK Team

NEW RESOURCES 2025
> Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
> AI Lecture Listening Test Worksheet
> An Introduction to AI in the Classroom
> AI Student Checklist
LINK: https://academic-englishuk.com/ai-in-education/

ART LESSONS
> Describing Famous Paintings
> Language Phrases for Describing Artwork
> Grammar in Art Workbook x10 lessons
> Vocabulary in Art Workbook x10 lessons
> Terracotta Army Reading Test
> Terracotta Listening Test
> Terracotta Army Writing Summary
> Terracotta Army Speaking Test
> Reading Test: Abstract Art
> Reading Test: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel Ceiling
> TED TALKS: Why is the Mona Lisa so famous?
> TED TALKS: Why is “The Scream” screaming?
> TED TALKS: Why is this painting of a black square famous?
> TED TALKS: Why is Guernica so shocking?
> TED TALKS: The woman behind the paintings.
LINK: https://academic-englishuk.com/english-for-art/

REPORT LESSONS
> Lab Report Writing: Psychology
> Lab Report Writing: Engineering
> Lab report Writing: Environmental Science
> Full Lab Report: x3
> Academic Report Writing: General Topic (A.I)
> Academic Report Writing: STEM (wind energy)
> Research Report Writing: Business (Digital Marketing)
> Full Academic Report:x3
LINK: https://academic-englishuk.com/report-writing/

PROCESS WRITING
> Intro to Process Writing
> Coal Energy
> Geothermal Energy
> Fracking Process
> Hydroelectric
> Nuclear Energy
> Solar Energy
> Waste to Energy
> Wave Energy
> Wind Energy
> Process writing 10x Lesson Booklet
LINK: https://academic-englishuk.com/process-writing/

ERROR CORRECTION
> Abstract Art (WF)
> Advertising Ethics (T)
> Carbon Zero (Gr)
> Citizen Journalism (^)
> Cultural Globalisation (Inf)
> Energy Security (WW)
> Food Security (A)
> Green Buildings (Coll)
> Life on Planets (Prep)
> Sports Nutrition (Ref)
> Study Abroad (RC)
LINK: https://academic-englishuk.com/error-correction-in-writing/

VIDEOS
> The Terracotta Warriors
> AI in Higher Education
> Describing Art Paintings
> British vrs American English
> Report Writing
> Process Writing
> Error Correction
VIDEO LINK: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_keKSGNMdbEQ4DrfL1mrfA

15/12/2025

THE TERRACOTTA ARMY LESSONS (FREE LESSON)
Hi everyone,
Welcome to our December Newsletter and the final edition of the year! We’re ending with a bang, launching a complete Terracotta Army lesson series that includes a reading test, summary writing task, listening test, speaking test, and seminar discussion, allowing students to explore and analyse this iconic topic in depth.
These lessons combine carefully graded, academic skills-focused tasks covering comprehension, key vocabulary, and critical thinking, making them ideal for EAP, foundation, and pre-sessional courses. Perfect for English for Art, History, and Cultural Studies, the series includes full teacher support and answer keys, helping students develop both subject knowledge and essential academic skills with confidence.
FREE WORKSHEET: The Terracotta Army Speaking Test (only valid for 2 weeks)

Blog page: https://academic-englishuk.com/the-terracotta-army/

THE TERRACOTTA ARMY LESSON BOOK
Five lessons in one book. Introduction, reading test, summary writing, lecture listening test & seminar.
EXAMPLE:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Terracotta-Army-Workbook-EXAMPLE-AEUK.pdf
BUY NOW (£14.50): https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/the-terracotta-army-lesson-book-download/

THE TERRACOTTA ARMY LISTENING TEST
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/pfa9hojwImM
EXAMPLE:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Terracotta-Army-Listening-Test-EXAMPLE-AEUK.pdf
BUY NOW (£6.50): https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/terracotta-army-listening-test-download/

THE TERRACOTTA ARMY READING TEST
EXAMPLE:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/The-Terracotta-Army-Reading-Test-EXAMPLE-AEUK.pdf
BUY NOW (£6.50): https://academic-englishuk.com/downloads/reading-test-the-terracotta-army-download/

FREE LESSON
THE TERRACOTTA ARMY SPEAKING LESSON
Expires in 2 weeks (30th December)
DOWNLOAD:https://academic-englishuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Terracotta-Army-Speaking-Test-FREE-AEUK.pdf

Merry Christmas Everyone
Thank you for all your support throughout 2025.
All the best,
The AEUK Team

,

Academic English UK

21/09/2026

24/08/2026

20/07/2026

14/06/2026

11/05/2026

07/02/2026

28/01/2026

20/01/2026

06/01/2026

15/12/2025

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