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General Program description and goals
Our program is a complete multi-level course for adult learners who want to enhance their English language skills in order to successfully communicate in the cultural context of the U.S. It has a natural student –centered communicative approach to language learning based on the integration of four language skills: Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing. Students progress from the beginning (Basic A level) to the Advanced +B level and the TOEFL preparation course as they follow a comprehensive and carefully graded curriculum. The goal of the Program is to ensure that students attain that level of linguistic competence that allows them to use the English language spontaneously and flexibly in order to express their intended message. The program enables the students to distinguish between the forms they have mastered and the communicative functions they perform. The learners become aware of the social meanings of language forms. They develop skills and strategies for using the English language to communicate in concrete situations. For those who wish to further their education or understanding of American culture, or achieve specific career goals we offer Academic Writing and American Short Stories and Poems Programs.
Methodology
The program is based on an interactive learner-centered communicative approach which builds students' competence in four language skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing. We believe that language learning is understanding how to communicate effectively in a cultural context; therefore, we pay systematic attention to developing functional as well as structural aspects of language. We encourage attempts to communicate from the very beginning by creating activities that carry out meaningful tasks because we think that only meaningful language to the learner supports the learning process. Our language teaching reflects the particular needs of the target learners. These needs are in the domains of listening, speaking reading, and writing each of which is approached from a communicative perspective. Our curriculum encourages the use of "natural" practice involving the simultaneous use of a variety of integrated skills rather than practicing each individual skill at a time. The instructional objectives reflect specific aspects of communicative competence according to the learner's English language proficiency level and communicative needs. Our teachers facilitate the communicative process between the learners and act as independent participants in the learning-teaching group. Our curriculum facilitates life-long language learning.
Admission requirements for students entering the program
To be admitted to the program, applicants must be at least 17 years old and high school graduates or complete the level of education equivalent to the high school level. They have to present a copy of the high school diploma or its equivalent.
Applicants are required to take the placement test. It is a multiple-choice test consisting of Listening, Reading, and the General Part incorporating Grammar and Vocabulary questions. The latter contains speaking situations and grammar problems. The placement test is timed and lasts 95 minutes. The oral interview is also conducted to measure student's fluency and accuracy in speaking. Minimum scores and competencies needed for admission to each level are listed under each level description.
Program structure and sequence
The English as a Second Language program consists of nine separate levels:
- Basic A
- Basic B
- Intermediate A
- Intermediate B
- Advanced A
- Advanced B
- Advanced +A
- Advanced +B
- TOEFL Preparation
The Academic Writing Program consists of three separate levels:
Each level is 12 weeks long (216 clock hours). The Program is conducted 18 hours weekly. American Short Stories and Poems Program consists of two phases:
Each phase is 12 weeks long (216 clock hours). The Program is conducted 18 hours weekly.
