At the beginning level, the class builds from basic forms and meanings, emphasizing grammar rules. In every class a variety of written exercises and oral activities is included to clarify and reinforce each structure as it is learned. Vocabulary is stressed at each level, as is the goal of increased reading speed. At the advanced level, materials which will help prepare a student for the kinds of assignments given in a university course are utilized. This class focuses on both the process and the end result of writing.
Students spend considerable time writing in class and as homework.
Whereas beginning students focus on writing grammatical sentences and paragraphs, more advanced students are given the opportunity to explore and develop the techniques of using rhetorical structures most commonly used in academic writing. These include description, narration, persuasion, and analysis, among others. The skills needed to readily understand English as it is spoken in public places, social situations, and the academic environment are the focus of this class. Improving aural comprehension is accomplished through a variety of techniques, including listening to live lectures, taped lectures, and videos. Conversation class offers students intensive practice in speaking English, focusing on conversation for interpersonal communication, problem-solving, debating, and other needs at different levels.