Prospective Students > International > Institute for International Studies > English as a Second Language > ESL curriculum
ESL curriculum
The ESL Program curriculum is divided into six levels. Each level
generally requires an eight-week term to complete. Information on these
levels is provided below.
New students are tested during the orientation program for
proficiency in English and then placed at an appropriate level of study.
New students are tested in writing, speaking, and grammar skills.
Level 1-2: Beginning Proficiency
Students in these levels receive basic instruction in
written and spoken English. This is to help them develop confidence,
listening comprehension, and pronunciation, as well as grammar skills.
They normally qualify for academic studies at the university after two
or three semesters of study. Two or three semesters equal four to six
"terms" in the ESL Program.
Level 3-4: Intermediate Proficiency
Further work on functional grammar and writing is done at these
levels. Also, issue-oriented and in-depth reading is included. Students
normally qualify for academic studies at the university after one or two
semesters. One or two semesters equals two to four "terms" in the ESL
Program.
Level 5-6: Adcanced
Proficiency
These advanced levels offer a foundation program for university
work. Students in these levels may begin to take coursework in their
major. Graduate students may begin coursework if admitted by their
graduate program, and with permission of the graduate director in that
program. Students in these levels normally need only one semester before
enrolling fully in their degree program as a university student.
Faculty
ESL faculty members are dedicated professionals in the field of
language learning who take a personal interest in their students'
progress. Many have advanced degrees and all have considerable
experience. Several instructors have teaching experience in other
countries and are themselves fluent in a second language.