SPRING PRE-FACULTY ELECTIVES

For more information on EPW offered, please click HERE.

BuildingClassroomInstructorsEPW CourseEPW Name
NNB-Z15Ozan EkiciPF01ROI: Reflect on It
DD-201Müge DağlıPF02The Movie Expedition
DD-202Daniele Perezin MizutaPF03Photography: Lens & Language
DD-203Samime Çelik AktaşPF04Making a Difference: Campaigns and Community
DD-204Azra Uslu PF05United Genders for Equality Club
DD-205Bilal İnciPF06Sports Magazine Club
DD-208Ecem İşbilirPF07StoryVerse
DD-209Çiğdem FıçıcıPF08TEDx PREP CLUB
DD-210Alexandra Heeg PolzinPF09Playwriting
DD-211Kaan Cahit DewanPF10Public Speaking Club
DD-212Ayşegül UtkuPF11Vocab Champs
NNB-Z01Seçil Canbaz ChouseinoglouPF12Digital Minimalism for University Students
NNB-Z02Yeşim Yeloğlu PF13Mystery Makers: Film Club
NNB-Z03Bilge Işıl YazıcıPF14The Documentary Club
NNB-Z04Duygu YılmazPF15Short Story Safari
NNB-Z05Sibel Dilsiz PF16Ad Lab – Explore, Create, Captivate
NNB-Z06Halime KuralPF17Short Story Society
NNB-Z12Hollie ŞahinPF18Cultural Discovery
NNB-Z13Lindsey Bishop-AllenPF19The Language Lab
NNB-Z14Teresa CampbellPF20Mock Trial Club
DD-Z01Sevil Kultufan Kılıç PF21Psychology Everywhere
DD-Z02Elif Kaya PF22Podcast Club
DD-Z03Ebru AtakurtPF23Music Explorers
DD-Z04Hülya AkanselPF24Children’s Book Club
DD-Z05Gökşen Çetin PF25Virtues in Life
DD-Z06Patrick HimmelspachPF26Sports Club
DD-Z07Ecem Merve PamukPF27Food Blogging
DD-Z08Matthew Bryce AllenPF28Science Olympiad
NNB-101Gökçen IşıkPF29Literary Adventure Course
NNB-102Funda Kamanlı PF30Boosting Language Through Short Stories and Movies
NNB-103A. Funda GökçePF31VerbiVibe
NNB-104Ayşe Özmen ÖzdemirPF32Anime
& Manga Odyssey Club
NNB-105Arlene LaheyPF33Murder Mystery Makers: A Creative Crime Adventure
NNB-106Joseph Louis SmithPF34Podcast Club
NNB-112Matthew PaynePF35Short Film Club
NNB-113James TresslerPF36Classic Rock Club
NNB-114Emine GeçgilPF37Novel Club
EPW Course CodeEPW NameEPW Description
PF01ROI: Reflect on ItROI: Reflect on It is an exciting and creative way to explore meaningful works in English! Each week, we’ll engage with movies, stories, famous quotes, poems, songs, excerpts from plays, and contemporary philosophy—carefully selected by the project’s teacher. Together, we’ll dive into thoughtful discussions about how these works make us feel, what they mean to us, and whether we agree or disagree—and why.
This is your chance to improve your speaking, writing, and critical thinking skills in English through a mix of group, pair, and individual activities. It’s all about reflecting on what inspires us while enjoying the process of learning together!

Important: All work must be original and created by you. The use of generative AI or AI-assisted tools is not allowed. Any work found to violate this rule will receive a score of 0.

Note: This project will involve reading, watching, and listening to a variety of materials, which may require extra focus and effort. Be ready for an engaging and rewarding challenge!
PF02The Movie ExpeditionAre you ready to explore movies with a new perspective? In this project, you are going to explore movies as a branch of art. You will have the chance to look into different movie genres and experience writing scripts according to different movie types and then acting these out. Also, please be prepared to make reflections about the process you will go through in this project. If you are interested, come and be a part of this group!!!
PF03Photography: Lens & LanguageAre you drawn to capturing the world through photos? Do you want to learn how to see life through a different lens while sharing your reflections and creativity with others? In Lens & Language: Exploring Photography through English, you’ll explore both the art of photography and your unique perspective on the world. This EPW is for anyone interested in using photography to express themselves and engage in personal reflection, regardless of prior experience.
Throughout the course, you’ll research famous photographers and various techniques, practice taking photos that represent your vision, and even experience what it’s like to be both behind and in front of the camera. As a class, we’ll discuss our work, sharing insights on how these images shape our perceptions and inspire our creativity. By the end of the course, you’ll select your favorite shots for an art gallery exhibition, where you can showcase the photos and reflections you’re most proud of.
Join us in Lens & Language if you want to make art, capture moments, and reflect deeply on what you see!
PF04Making a Difference: Campaigns and CommunityAre you passionate about making a positive impact in the world? Join us for an inspiring 8-week journey into the heart of charity work, designed specifically for upper-intermediate English learners. This dynamic course will not only enhance your language skills but also empower you to create meaningful change.

Course Highlights:
– Explore the Power of Charity
– Develop Presentation Skills
– Collaborate on Real Projects
– Enhance Your Language Skills
– Make a Real Impact

This course is perfect for those who want to combine their love for community service with a desire to improve their English. Whether you’re interested in future careers in nonprofit work or simply want to contribute to a good cause, this course offers valuable experience and a chance to make a real difference. Join us and be a part of something bigger—your journey to creating positive change starts here!
PF05United Genders for Equality ClubGender equality is not a woman’s issue, it’s a human issue. It affects us all.” – Emma Watson   
The United Genders for Equality Club welcomes all genders to engage in thought-provoking activities, creative projects, and meaningful discussions on gender equality. In this club, you will explore topics like feminism myths, gender-inclusive language, and how stereotypes affect everyone! You can participate in exciting activities, from art and surveys to thought-provoking TED Talk reflections while building critical thinking and communication skills. Let your voice be heard in a space where everyone’s perspective matters. Together, we’ll learn, grow, and inspire change. Join us and be a part of something truly impactful! Ready to make a difference? Let’s get started!
PF06Sports Magazine ClubHave you ever got your hands on magazines like Sports Illustrated, L’Equipe, Four-Four-Two or Goal? If you enjoy reading such magazines and are interested in creating one, this club is for you! You are going to have the opportunity to explore such themes as sportspeople, tactics/strategies, fan culture, economics and politics of different sports of your choice. Make sure you love sports, writing and design if you are going to choose this club. 
PF07StoryVerseExplore, Record and Create! Dive into the captivating world of literature!
Suitable for all! Whether you are a literature enthusiast, an inspiring artist, or simply curious about exploring the world of stories/novels, this project is perfect for students of all backgrounds and interests.
PF08TEDx PREP CLUBAre you interested in learning new things, improving your speaking skills, and making a positive difference? If so, join the TEDx PREP Club! It’s a club where we explore interesting TED Talks, practice public speaking, and share our ideas. You’ll work with friends, get helpful feedback, and present your own TED Talk at a special event. Get ready to grow your ideas, find your voice, and be part of a friendly community.
PF09PlaywritingWhat message do you want to share with the world? Join us in
exploring this question through the process of writing your own play. You will be guided and supported along the way while being given the freedom to write your own story, whether real or imagined. Bring your perspective, an open mind, and a desire to think and write creatively.
PF10Public Speaking ClubIn this course, you will learn how to speak in front of an audience (of your peers). If you want to learn how to draft (write) a speech in order to effectively convince people, sell them your ideas, or even just teach, this project is for you. In order to successfully pass, every student will have to present in front of an audience.
PF11Vocab ChampsTired of trying to learn long, boring word lists? Want to boost your vocabulary while having fun at the same time? Then come and join the Vocab Champs Club!
Each week, you will learn and practice words in your vocabulary list with your team members through exciting games, puzzles or quizzes. But that’s not all – you will also get the chance to put your new vocabulary into use in fun, creative, real-life writing and speaking tasks to make your learning really stick.
And here’s the best part: on showcase days, our club will organize a Kahoot vocabulary competition open to all pre-faculty level students to find the PFC Vocab Champs!
PF12Digital Minimalism for University StudentsLess Screen More Serene: Embrace Digital Minimalism for a Balanced Life
Do you scroll mindlessly at times?
Do you want to manage your time better by using your digital devices more effectively?
If you are saying YES, this is the club you’re looking for. You will be learning about digital minimalism and how to adapt it to your own life. While learning how to do so, you’ll be completing a variety of tasks (by using your digital devices effectively) and improve your English. Most importantly you will experiment with digital minimalism to boost your mental well-being and overall productivity.
PF13Mystery Makers: Film ClubDo you love mysteries and want to bring your imagination to life?
Are you ready to write your scenario,  shoot the film, prepare the poster, and create a trailer for a creative filmmaking journey?
Do you enjoy collaborating with friends to create something extraordinary?
Then Mystery Makers: Film Club is the perfect choice for you!
This club offers an exciting opportunity to:
– Analyze intriguing murder mystery films to uncover storytelling secrets.
– Create your captivating characters and write thrilling scenarios.
– Collaborate with your peers to design a film poster and produce an eye-catching trailer.
– Develop your creativity, communication, and teamwork skills in a supportive environment.
– Dive into the world of filmmaking and showcase your group’s masterpiece.
By joining Mystery Makers: Film Club, you’ll boost your language and creative skills and enjoy a unique and fun learning experience.
Don’t miss this chance to solve mysteries and tell your stories on the big screen!
PF14The Documentary ClubDo you like watching Discovery Channel or National Geographic? Do you find documentary films interesting and fun? This is your chance to create your own documentary about university life.
In this club you will learn:
How to make your own documentary by using some online tools
How to write scripts
How to speak effectively and efficiently
 
Come join us to create your own documentary and share it with your friends!
PF15Short Story SafariDo you have a passion for short stories? Are you eager to enhance your English skills while diving into fantastic stories? If your answer is YES, then you’ve found the perfect place! In our club, we will explore a variety of short stories. You will have the chance to act out scenes, discuss your interpretations and even create your own stories. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your language abilities, share your thoughts and connect with like-minded peers. Join us to experience the excitement of reading, learning and growing together. We can’t wait to start this literary journey with you!
In this club, students will enjoy exploring short stories. They will read stories, talk about them, act them out and do different activities to understand them better. This club will help them improve their reading and speaking skills, learn new words, and share their ideas. They will examine the themes, characters, and plots of each story. The goal is to make them love literature and have fun learning together.

Aims and Objectives of EPW:
– we are going to read short stories
– we are going to analyze the plot, the setting, the theme, and the characters of some short stories
– we are going to learn topic-related terms.
– We are going to act out some scenes and write an alternative ending
– We are going to prepare a storyboard, write letters to the characters and modern version of the stories
PF16Ad Lab – Explore, Create, CaptivateJoin Ad Lab, an engaging elective where English learners explore advertising through hands-on projects. Analyze ads, develop campaigns, and enhance your creativity and communication skills in a supportive, collaborative environment.
PF17Short Story SocietyAre you a fan of short stories? Would you like to improve your English while enjoying a variety of stories? If you answered YES, this club is for you! In Short Story Society, we’ll read diverse short stories together. You’ll get the chance to act out scenes, share your ideas, and even create your own versions of stories
PF18Cultural DiscoveryAre you interested in the world around you? Do you like to learn about different cultures, traditions and perspectives? If yes, this is the club for you! Come and join our club where you will be part of a team that is researching and exploring a range of unique and fascinating cultures. But, that’s not the best part! The best part is that you will get to be involved in our cultural festival.

Aims and Objectives of Club:
-To widen our perspective of different cultures around the world by doing internet research.
-To understand more why cultures are such an important part of life through discussions.
-To work together and communicate effectively in groups while researching and planning around your chosen culture.
-To use a range of communication and presentation skills when presenting your chosen culture.
PF19The Language LabDo you want extra practice with Pre-Fac’s grammar objectives and that endless wordlist? Join The Language Lab to practice grammar and vocab with activities and production tasks that will help you become more confident in the level objectives. This course will be challenging and require a lot of work, but it will be worth it.
PF20Mock Trial ClubAre you interested in learning the skills to be a trial lawyer? Maybe you just want to improve your presentation and speaking skills in the context of a murder mystery? This course will offer you the chance to learn courtroom skills from an actual trial lawyer and participate in the mock trial of a murder case. Did the defendant really mean to murder his mother-in-law? We will find out together depending on the outcome of the trial!
PF21Psychology EverywhereAre you interested in human psychology? Do you like discussing psychological elements and emotions expressed in a material you read, watch or listen to? If so, this club is THE ONE for you! As a part of the club, you will have a chance to read, listen to and watch works of different genres and analyze their content in terms of the feelings they create in the reader/the viewer or the emotions expressed in them. You will broaden your understanding of psychology by working on a short story, a song, a poem and watching a short film/movie or an advertisement. You will also have a chance to write about and discuss psychological issues that humans face every day.
PF22Podcast ClubThe ultimate goal of this EPW is giving students an opportunity to create a podcast on a topic of their choice. Before producing the podcast, students will analyze the elements, techniques and types of podcasts. They will also listen to some sample podcasts and reflect on the various aspects of a podcast. During this stage, students can work in pairs or in groups. Students’ podcast can involve a conversation between two hosts, an interview, storytelling, fiction or non-fiction. The podcast students will produce can serve different purposes such as trying to make their audience laugh, aiming to keep their audience in suspense or intending to educate or inform them on a topic. Students should keep all of these possibilities in mind as they plan how they want their podcast to be like. At the end, students will publish their broadcast on a broadcast hosting service.
PF23Music ExplorersThis EPW is for music lovers. Experience in singing, playing a musical instrument, or making music is not required. Come join the club if you’d like to meet other music fans and have conversations in English about music 😊 You will complete a range of activities such as creating posters and giving a talk on different kinds of music you are interested in, as well as making your own music interview videos.
PF24Children’s Book ClubAre you interested in writing stories and drawing illustrations? You can combine these two skills in this club by creating a digital children’s book of your own! In this club, we will learn the basics of writing children’s stories, write our own story, draw our own illustrations and create an audio book.
PF25Virtues in LifeAre you interested in thinking about values and virtues that form the foundation of social life? In these 12 weeks we are going to look into these virtues by reading articles and listening to podcasts about them, finding them in literature, movies/ series and creating a dystopic/ utopic world.  While doing these, you will have a chance to improve your reading, listening and speaking and writing skills. Being aware of these virtues, let’s help the society be more conscious about them, too!
PF26Sports ClubAre you passionate about sports and ready to improve your English skills? Bilkent International Sports Club is the right choice for you! Our club offers the excitement of sports from around the world while expanding your English proficiency. Bilkent International Sports Club focuses on research of world sports and developing your writing, speaking and listening all while learning about new sports and world cultures. What are you waiting for? Sign up now!
PF27Food BloggingDive into the world of food blogging with our creative recipe blog project! Explore a range of cuisines, from Italian classics to Japanese delights, and become an expert in diverse diets including plant-based cooking. You will conduct research, refine, and create delicious recipes while expanding your food-related vocabulary. You will also have the chance to learn the art of food photography and capture your culinary creations with stunning photos and engaging videos. At the end of the project, you’ll compile everything into a polished PDF and produce a video showcasing your new skills and creativity. Boost your English, ignite your imagination, and emerge as a standout food blogger!
PF28Science OlympiadDo you like building things or solving problems by working with other people? Are you interested in science, engineering, or learning more about the world around you? Have you always wanted to make a bridge out of spaghetti? If so, Science Olympiad is the club for you! We will complete four different team competitions that involve solving science and engineering challenges, all while using English to make plans and reflect on the results. At the end of the club, your team will produce a video showing off your hard work.
PF29Literary Adventure Course📚 Literary Adventure Course🕵️
Go on a captivating journey into the world of mystery and detective fiction! This Project Course is designed for passionate readers and mystery enthusiasts. Dive deep into Agatha Christie’s “Three Blind Mice” detective story.
Course Highlights:
Use your creativity:  You might work on tasks like doing research, giving a mini presentation, doing role-play activities, writing a script of a scene, rewriting scenes, imagining new endings, changing character perspectives, or creating your own podcast episode.
🗣️ 💡 Master Essential Skills: Learn valuable skills like the analysis of a literary text, effective communication, creative thinking, and storytelling. Boost your confidence through interactive discussions, debates, and group projects. These skills will benefit you beyond the classroom too!
🔍 Express your ideas, and share your thoughts with other mystery lovers.Enroll now, and unlock the Mystery!
PF30Boosting Language Through Short Stories and MoviesBoost your English skills with this fun course that uses short stories and short movies! You’ll explore different stories, learn new words, and improve your comprehension. With group discussions and activities, you will practice speaking and thinking critically in English. Enjoy the world of stories and films while making your language skills stronger.
PF31VerbiVibeCREATE YOUR OWN SCHOOL-WIDE  SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM Join us at VerbiVibe, where language meets creativity, and you become the conductor of your linguistic journey. 🎶
🔹 About Us: VerbiVibe is not just another language club. We’re a vibrant, dynamic community that believes language learning should be fun, engaging, and full of creative expression. We use English as our canvas to explore, create, and connect!
🔹 What We Offer:
✨ Language Improvement: Improve your English language skills while having a blast.
🎭 Creativity: Dive into storytelling, art, and multimedia content creation in English.
💬 Engagement: Connect with a global community through language.
🎯 Goals: Achieve language proficiency and build lasting friendships. 
🔹 Why Join? At VerbiVibe, we’re all about having a good time while expanding our language horizons. Plus, you’ll gain practical experience managing a school-wide social media platform. Stay tuned for exciting events, engaging content, and our unique showcases of member achievements. 🎉
PF32Anime
& Manga Odyssey Club
Join our Anime & Manga Odyssey Club
In the Anime & Manga Odyssey Club, a group of Language Heroes embarks on an extraordinary journey to unlock the secrets of Japanese culture and language through the mesmerizing world of manga and anime. Together, they face thrilling challenges, uncover linguistic mysteries, and embrace the power of communication as they become true language masters. Join the ranks of the Language Heroes and embark on a quest that will forever change your language learning adventure!
PF33Murder Mystery Makers: A Creative Crime AdventureAre you ready to crack the case? In the Murder Mystery Club, you’ll step into the shoes of a detective and a storyteller to create your very own murder mystery! Work with your classmates to build a thrilling plot, develop intriguing characters, and write suspenseful clues that will keep everyone guessing. Along the way, you’ll learn new vocabulary, improve your storytelling skills, and practice speaking English in a fun, interactive way. By the end, you’ll not only have a gripping mystery to share but also a great story to tell! Can you solve the crime before time runs out? Let’s find out together!
PF34Podcast ClubJoin the podcast club where we will work towards an audio production of over 10 minutes in length. Work alone, or as part of a group, choose any topic, and let’s make a podcast.
PF35Short Film ClubWhat do Peter Jackson, Nuri Bilge Caylan, Stanley Kubrik and Cem Yilmaz all have in common? They all started their careers creating short films! Film as a medium has allowed great directors to create works of art that can transport their audience to unbelievable worlds and allow them to lose themselves to film! Would you like to join these artists and create something visually unique for the world to see? Well if so join short film club and learn how to put your creativity on the big screen.
PF36Classic Rock ClubAre you a musician? Do you like Classic Rock bands like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana and Metallica? Join the Classic Rock Club! In this club we will not only listen to and discuss these and many other bands, but we will also have a live concert in Conference Hall at the end of the period.

NOTE TO STUDENTS: THIS IS A PERFORMANCE-BASED CLUB, SO BE PREPARED TO PLAY LIVE IN FRONT OF YOUR FRIENDS AND CLASSMATES!
PF37Novel ClubIn this club, you will relax and read, provoke thoughts and exchange opinions with your friends, and learn many concepts about the deep roots of Native American culture, and its implications in today’s America. How? Of course, by reading the New York Times bestseller and the winner of National Book Award, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (2007), written by the Native American writer Sherman Alexie. You will explore the themes of racism, poverty, and identity, and beyond everything, you will be proud of yourselves, because by the end of this period, you will have read a 230-page novel in English. There will be many reading séances as part of our club meetings, so if you are a bookworm or a reading enthusiast, you should join this club.