How many levels of ESOL do you have? What would I study in ESOL classes?

We have 2 levels of ESOL, intermediate and advanced. There are 3 courses at each level. Some of these are language classes and some are content classes. In language classes, you learn grammar, vocabulary, conversation, and reading/writing. In content classes, you learn history, American culture, English for math class, literature, and social studies.

How do you what ESOL level I will be in?

To decide if you should be in the intermediate, the advanced, or some combination of levels, we use information from your application before you come and a placement test after you arrive. We then consider your placement very carefully during the first few weeks of class to be sure you are in the correct classes.

What classes will I take?

Most new students have 3 ESOL classes, and two "mainstream" classes (math, science, and/or arts). If you begin at the intermediate level, you will take: Intermediate ESOL , ESOL Literature, and Academic Studies in English. When you are at the advanced level, you will take Advanced ESOL, English Composition, and U.S. History.

What are the ESOL classes like?

The classes are small and friendly, with 9-15 students in a group. (Mainstream classes have no more than 15). Everyone participates; you will learn to feel very natural and comfortable asking questions, discussing and debating with others, explaining your ideas. Students help each other. There is a lot to learn to prepare for mainstream classes, and a lot to know to join American friends in conversation at meals, in the dorm, and during activities. Students work very hard. They have homework every day.

What kind of homework will I have?

Some of your homework will be practice exercises for the new grammar you are learning or the new vocabulary words you study. Some homework will be reading in preparation for discussions in class. Sometimes you will interview a native speaker about his or her life. Sometimes you will prepare an oral presentation to give to the rest of the class. Sometimes you will write an essay and sometimes - yes - you will have to study for a quiz or exam!

What classes will I take with American students?

New 9th graders will be mainstreamed for the Humans in the Natural World course as well as math and, if you so choose, art. Your only non-mainstream class will be ESOL, if you choose to take it (which you most likely will) in your first year. By the time you are a senior, you will take all mainstream classes. You might even decide to study another language, such as Spanish or French!

Will I get a good TOEFL score when I am ready to apply to college?

Yes - if you are a serious student who does well in intermediate and advanced ESOL, you will be very well prepared to take the TOEFL. We don't teach a specific "TOEFL Preparation Course", but students learn the grammar, vocabulary, listening, reading, and essay-writing skills that the TOEFL measures in their regular ESOL classes.