Initial placement is determined by a standardization test, a writing sample and an oral interview.
The writing courses develop skills in grammar and sentence patterns of American English, leading students from sentences to paragraphs to essay s in fluent written English. The reading courses focus on reading comprehension, English vocabulary, idioms and American culture. The speech courses emphasize American pronunciation, intonation patterns, speech rhythms, vocabulary and gestures, and require regular use of listening materials. Reading, writing, and speaking skills are further developed through the use of computerized learning aids.