General Information:

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program offers community based classes, intensive classes, and business classes, and online classes.  Click here to find out which is right for you.  Click here for Registration, placement, and testing Information.

Fall 2008 Course Schedule
(August 25~December 6)

School closed on September 1, November 26-29 (No Classes) in the Hickory Ridge

PRE-BEGINNING ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

Pre-Beginning Comprehensive A
This comprehensive class teaches the life skills and all of the language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).  This is a practical, pre-beginning class for people who speak no English.  Listed below are different sections of the class.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 3-Dec 3 (65 hours) Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:40pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (63 hours) Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 22-Dec 10 (55 hours) Bollman Bridge Elementary - Jessup

Listening and Speaking for Pre-Beginners A
This is a listening and speaking class for students who speak no English.  Learn about the United States and how to function in American society.  35 hours. Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge                                                                                          Sat 9:20am-12:00pm Sept 6-Dec 6 Hickory Ridge

Pre-Beginning Conversational English A
This class is offered as part of the English Language Institute but is open to any pre-beginning students.  Class size is small with lots of practice time for each student!  Learn to use English in conversation.  Lots of pronunciation, repetition, dialogs, and vocabulary.  This is a more challenging, faster-moving class but still perfect for non-speakers of English.  54 hours.  $125 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 1:00-2:55pm Aug 25-Dec 3  Hickory Ridge

English for Koreans A *NEW*
This is an English course for pre-beginning and beginning level English speakers who have recently arrived from Korea.  The course focuses on issues most commonly experienced by those in the 30 to 40 age range - establishing households, sending children to school, and handling basic legal requirements associated with life in the US.  The class will be taught by a bilingual speaker of Korean and English.  Students will improve their knowledge of vocabulary, pronunciation, and oral communication while also learning survival skills for handling daily life in the US.  65 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sept 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
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BEGINNING I ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

Beginning I Comprehensive A
This class teaches life skills and language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking, pronunciation, and grammar).  This is a practical, beginning class for people who speak a little  English.  Listed below are different sections of the class.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge 
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 3-Dec 3 (65 hours) Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:40pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (63 hours) Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 22-Dec 10 (55 hours) Bollman Bridge Elementary - Jessup

Everyday English *NEW*
This is a course for students who have already taken Beginning I or II classes but still need more practice!  Course is good for students who need repetition and very practical English. The content and speed would be perfect for older learners. Course focus is on survival English needed for family and community conversations, reading, and basic writing.  73 hours.   Free tuition; material fees collected during registration. 
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge 

Intensive Beginning I A
This is an intensive course for Beginning I students who want to learn at a faster rate.  The curriculum is academic and challenging yet still very practical.  Reading, writing, listening, speaking, pronunciation, and grammar will be taught in one class.  This class is part of the English Language Institute but is open to any beginning student.  73 hours.  $160 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Listening and Speaking for Beginners I A
Improve your listening, speaking, and pronunciation skills in this class for beginners.  Learn the conversation skills you need for everyday life.  35 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge

Intensive Listening and Speaking for Beginners I A
Improve your listening, speaking, and pronunciation skills in this class for beginners.   This is a faster moving, more demanding class than the one above.  Fun, practical conversation activities will challenge you and improve your English!  35 hours.  $90 (Books Included).
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5     Hickory Ridge

Reading and Writing for Spanish Speakers
This is a reading and writing class for Spanish-speaking students who speak some English but have trouble with reading and writing.  The class is especially for those with limited education in their first language.  Students will be taught by a bilingual teacher.  Students will work on spelling, sounds in English, sight words, and short sentences.  65 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sept 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Beginning Reading and Writing *NEW*
This a class for beginner focusing on reading and writing at a entry level.  This class like the Reading and Writing for Spanish-speaking Students is meant for students who speak some English but have trouble reading and writing.  Those who have limited education in their first language wouls benefit from this class.  Students will work on spelling, sounds in English, sight words, and short sentences.  65 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sept 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Reading in Action I A
You will read interesting short stories and even short books. You will use the reading to improve speaking, vocabulary, and writing skills!  56 hours.  $120 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:40am-12:00pm Sept 2-Nov 20 Hickory Ridge

Vocabulary and Pronunciation for Beginners
This is a popular class for beginners.  Learn to pronounce English while learning basic and essential vocabulary.  A perfect class for those who want to learn pronunciation as they learn new words and dialogs.  This course can also help with spelling! 49 hours.  $120 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Beginning I Grammar A
An essential course every beginner should take!  Offered as an English Language Institute course but is open to any student who is a beginning English learner.  49 hours.  $120 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Beginning I Conversational English A
This class is offered as part of the English Language Institute but is open to any beginning students.  Class size is small with lots of practice time for each student!  Learn to use English in conversation.  Lots of pronunciation, repetition, dialogs, and vocabulary.  A perfect class for beginning students.  54 hours.  $125 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 1:00-2:55pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

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BEGINNING II ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

Beginning II Comprehensive A
This is an upper-level beginning comprehensive class teaching life skills and all of the language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar).  This is a practical class for people who speak limited English.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 3-Dec 3 (65 hours)   Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:40pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (63 hours)  Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 22-Dec 10 (55 hours)   Bollman Bridge Elementary - Jessup

Everyday English *NEW*
This is a course for students who have already taken Beginning I or II classes but still need more practice!  Course is good for students who need repetition and very practical English.  The content and speed would be perfect for older learners. Course focus is on survival English needed for family and community conversations, reading, and basic writing.  73 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.    
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Intensive Beginning II A
This is the upper level of an intensive course for Beginning II students.  The curriculum is more academic and demanding than the Beginning II Comprehensive class listed above.  This class is perfect for students who want to study at the college level.  Reading, writing, listening, speaking and grammar will be taught in one class.  This class is part of the English Language Institute but is open to any upper-level beginning student.  73 hours.  $180 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Listening and Speaking for Beginners II A
Improve your listening, speaking, and pronunciation skills in this class for upper-level beginners.  Improve your listening, speaking, and pronunciation skills in this class.  Learn the conversation skills you need for everyday life.  35 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge
Sat 9:20am-12:00pm Sep 6-Dec 6 Hickory Ridge

Intensive Listening and Speaking for Beginners II A
Improve your listening, speaking, and pronunciation skills in this class for beginners.  This is a faster moving, more demanding class than the one above.  Fun, practical conversation activities will challenge you and improve your English!  35 hours.  $90 (Books Included).
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5     Hickory Ridge

Sentence Skills A
Learn to write good sentences in English for common everyday activities!  Also improve your grammar and vocabulary in this practical, interactive writing class.  60 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration. 
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4       Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-8:50pm Sept 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Intensive Sentence Skills 
Learn sentence writing, short paragraph writing, new vocabulary, grammar, and spelling in one popular class.  Perfect for beginning students who want to develop college writing skills.  60 hours.  $135 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4 ELB

Reading in Action II A
This class is for high-beginning or low-intermediate students who want to read short stories and short books!  You will use the reading to improve speaking, vocabulary and writing skills and learn about US culture!   Students will read books as a class but will also select some books on their own.  This is a fun way to start reading in English!  56 hours.  $135 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:40am-12:00pm Sept 2-Nov 20 Hickory Ridge

Fundamentals of Pronunciation
This is a pronunciation class for high-beginner or low-intermediate level students.  Offered as part of the English Language Institute but open to any student at this level.  Improve your pronunciation skills as you are learning English.  49 hours.  $120 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Beginning II Grammar A
Develop grammar skills and practice them in active communication.  Offered as part of the English Language Institute (ELI) but open to any high-beginning/low-intermediate student.  This is the first half of a two-part course.  Seats are limited.  49 hours.  $120 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Beginning II Conversational English A
This new class is offered as part of the English Language Institute but is open to any upper-level beginning student. Seats are limited.  Learn to use English in conversation.  Lots of pronunciation, repetition, dialogs, and vocabulary.  A perfect class for beginning students.  54 hours.  $145 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 10:55am-12:50pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 1:00-2:55pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

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INTERMEDIATE I ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

Intermediate I Comprehensive A
This is an intermediate comprehensive class teaching life skills and all of the language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar).  This is a practical class for people who speak some English.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (73 hours) Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 3-Dec 3 (65 hours)   Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:40pm Aug 26-Dec 4 (63 hours)  Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 6:30-9:00pm Sep 22-Dec 10 (55 hours)   Bollman Bridge Elementary - Jessup

Intensive Intermediate I A/B
Take the first or second half of the intensive intermediate course –A or B.  It covers reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar.  The curriculum is more academic and demanding than the Intermediate I Comprehensive class listed above.  This class is a perfect start for students who want to study at the college level.  This class is part of the English Language Institute but is open to any intermediate-level student.  73 hours.  $230 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4  A/B Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4  A Hickory Ridge

Listening and Speaking for Intermediate I A
Improve your listening and speaking skills in this academic class for intermediates only.  35 hours.  $110 (Books Included).
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge
Sat 9:20am-12:00pm Sep 6-Dec 6 Hickory Ridge Hickory Ridge

Academic Reading for Intermediates A  
Challenge yourself to read faster, add new vocabulary, and understand more.  You’ll read true stories and literature and prepare for college reading!  In addition, you’ll develop vocabulary, written skills, and oral discussion skills.  Intermediate learners only.  Offered as part of the English Language Institute but open to any high-beginning/low-intermediate student.  60 hours. $175 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:50-11:55am Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Intermediate I Writing A/B
Take the first or second half of the intermediate writing course – A or B.  Learn sentence writing, paragraph writing, new vocabulary, grammar, and spelling all in one popular class.  Intermediate-level students only.  60 hours.  $175 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4 ELB

Basic Writing
Improve your sentence and paragraph writing skills.  Also practice grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.  This class is perfect for students who want to develop writing skills to pass the GED or for personal use.  50 hours.  $125 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 6:30-8:35pm Sept 3-Nov 24 Hickory Ridge

Intermediate I Grammar A
An intensive intermediate-level grammar course.  Work on those hard to understand structures.  Excellent practice if you want to improve the grammar you use every day.  Not just a memory class!  The emphasis is on using the rules in speaking and writing.  Gain confidence in the accuracy of the language that you are using.  49 hours.  $190 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Pronunciation Improvement I
This popular course will help you improve your English pronunciation skills.  Focus is on stress, intonation, and vowel/consonant sounds.  Intermediate level only.  Offered as part of the English Language Institute but open to any intermediate student.  49 hours.  $190 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Intermediate Conversational English A
This very popular class is designed to get you talking and using correct spoken English!  This is a fast-moving class with lots of conversation, pronunciation practice, and use of new everyday expressions (idioms).  Learn through repetition, dialogs, and vocabulary practice.  A perfect class for intermediate students!  Video and audio-taping included.  49 hours.  $190 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 1:05-2:50pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 1:00-2:45pm Aug 26-Dec 2 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:20pm Sept 2-Dec 4  Hickory Ridge

English at Home
A completely different kind of class!  It’s more like private tutoring!  You will check out a video and purchase a workbook to use for home study.  Once a week, you will return for a computer assessment (about 15-20 minutes) and an individual appointment (about 15-20 minutes) to work with a teacher who will review your homework and give you your next assignment.  For intermediate students only.  New students may start each month!  A perfect class for students who have missed the regular start-ups but still want to study English.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration.
Wed 12:30-3:00pm Sep 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Wed 5:30-8:00pm  Sep 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Fri 9:00am-12:00pm Sep 5-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge

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INTERMEDIATE II ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

Intensive Intermediate II A/B
Take the first or second half of this intensive, academic course for Intermediate II students.  The curriculum is more academic and demanding than the Intermediate II Comprehensive class listed above.  This class is perfect for students who are preparing for college study or want a more demanding class.  Reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar will be taught in one class.  This class is part of the English Language Institute but is open to any high-intermediate student.  73 hours.  $290 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4  A/B Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 12:30-3:00pm Aug 26-Dec 4  A Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:00-9:30pm Aug 26-Dec 4  A  Hickory Ridge

Let's Just Talk A
Improve your informal conversations, practice formal presentations, and expand your vocabulary.  Topics are current and interesting.  This class is for high-intermediate students.  Conversation skills practice is direct and concrete.  You will receive suggestions to improve your speaking ability.  35 hours.  $150 (Books Included).
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge
Sat 9:20am-12:00pm Sep 6-Dec 6 Hickory Ridge

Intermediate II Grammar A
An intensive Intermediate II level grammar course.  Work on those hard-to-understand structures.  Excellent practice if you want to improve the grammar you use everyday.  Not just a memory class!  The emphasis is on using the rules in speaking and writing.  Gain confidence in the accuracy of the language that you are using.  49 hours.  $190 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Pronunciation Improvement II
This popular course for Intermediate II learners will help you improve your English pronunciation skills.  Focus is on stress, intonation, and vowel/consonant sounds.  Upper-intermediate level or above only.  49 hours.  $190 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge  
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 7:00-9:20pm Sep 3-Nov 12 Hickory Ridge

Interactive Speaking A
Speak more like a native speaker!  Learn everyday, “real” spoken English.  This popular, yet practical course focuses on idioms of English, but also includes pronunciation tips!  Participate in many different activities: skits, role-plays, dialogs, short presentations, and readings.  Practice speaking in an active, fun environment.  Video and audio-taping included.  49 hours.  $190 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Mon, Wed 1:05-2:50pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 1:00-2:45pm Aug 26-Dec 2 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:20pm Sept 2-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge
 
Intermediate II Writing
Intensive work on paragraph-level writing tasks.  As you work on writing, you will also develop vocabulary, spelling, and grammar skills.  Prepare for college classes.  60 hours.  $220 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 1:00-3:05pm Aug 26-Dec 4 ELB

TOEFL Preparation I
This is a brand new course for high-intermediate, low-advanced students who would like to begin their preparation for the TOEFL exam but are not ready for the more-advanced TOEFL preparation courses.  This is the first of three TOEFL Preparation courses. The class is challenging and intensive, but not as difficult as the TOEFL Preparation II and III.  60 hours.  $260 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Life in the USA
Improve your English skills while you learn about the college, the community, local history, culture, and tourist sites in our city and state.  Plan and participate in three field trips on an extended Friday schedule.  For high-intermediate or advanced students only.  41 hours.  $180 (Books Included).
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Nov 11 Hickory Ridge
Three outside field trips on Fridays (9:00am-4:00pm) to be arranged.

Using English in the Community (Int II and Adv I)
One of our most popular classes!!  High-intermediate or advanced students will have a chance to speak with native speakers as they perform volunteer service in the community.  Choices for volunteer service will come from reputable community organizations.  In class, you and other students will reflect on your experiences, using English for reading, writing, listening and speaking activities.  Outside speakers and videos will broaden your exposure to English.  ***Hours outside of class required.***  Must be willing to commit to regular, weekly hours off-campus (minimum 3-4 hours/week).  Improve your English and your job-readiness skills.  26 in-class hours and approximately 30 out-of-class hours.  $210 (Books Included).
Wed 9:30-11:30am Sep 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

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ADVANCED I ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

Intensive Advanced I A
Begin to work on college-level skills in reading, writing, and listening and prepare for undergraduate or graduate studies! Get tips, advice, strategies, and lots of practice in this advanced course.  Topics will include academic lectures and note-taking, presentations, strategies for more effective academic reading and writing, academic vocabulary, and cultural issues in a university classroom.  73 hours.  $290 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:15-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:00-9:30pm Aug 26-Dec 4  Hickory Ridge

Advanced Pronunciation and Speech *Business/Professional Certificate* (Adv I and Adv II)
Review pronunciation and speech rules in this class for high-intermediate or advanced students.  Students will give many short presentations.  Video and audio taping included.  (Completion of Pronunciation Improvement A or B recommended but not required.)  49 hours.  $220 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 11:00am-12:45pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Advanced Grammar A
Intensive work on advanced grammar.  Study the rules and apply them to your current needs.  Use language from current newspapers, radio, and T.V. to analyze usage and also analyze your own usage.  49 hours.  $220 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:00-10:45am Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Authentic Spoken English A
Speak more like a native speaker! Learn everyday, “real” spoken English.  This practical, yet fun course focuses on idioms of English.  Practice what you learn in dialogs, role-plays, and discussions.  Also includes pronunciation tips! Video and audio-taping included.  49 hours.  $220 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 1:05-2:50pm Aug 25-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:20pm Sep 2-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Advanced American Literature (Adv I and Adv II)
This study of famous American short stories will help you develop advanced reading skills, increase your vocabulary, and improve your oral and written skills.  In addition, you’ll learn about American culture by reading famous selections in literature.  The class will be lively, challenging, thought-provoking, and FUN!  50 hours.  $220 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 1:00-2:55pm Sep 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Advanced Writing
Advanced students, don’t miss this chance to improve your writing skills for college or business.  This is your opportunity to get expert writing instruction in a non-threatening environment.  The instructor will help with editing, revising, and vocabulary selection.  60 hours.  $260 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4 ELB

Vocabulary Enrichment A
Develop vocabulary needed for the TOEFL, SAT, or everyday communication. Pronunciation tips included.  Practice using the vocabulary in speaking, listening, reading and writing activities.  35 hours.  $160 (Books Included).
Mon 6:30-9:10pm Sep 8-Dec 1 Hickory Ridge 
Fri 9:30-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge

TOEFL Preparation II
This course was formerly called Intro to TOEFL Prep but has been moved to the advanced level.  This is a course for advanced students who would like to begin their preparation for the TOEFL exam but are not ready for the more-advanced TOEFL Preparation III course.  This is the second of three TOEFL Preparation courses. (See TOEFL Preparation I at the Intermediate II level if you are not an advanced student.) The class is challenging and intensive, but not as difficult as the TOEFL III Preparation course.  60 hours.  $280 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

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ADVANCED II ESL CLASSES
(A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

TOEFL Preparation III
This class is the ever-popular TOEFL Preparation class that we have offered for years.  The course has simply been renamed to indicate that this class is the highest in a series of three courses and to allow for two lower classes (TOEFL Preparation I & II.)  In this Advanced II class, students will develop the advanced grammar, reading, writing, and listening skills required on the TOEFL.  At the end of this course, students should be ready to take the TOEFL examination which is offered by a private testing organization. This is also a great class for advanced learners who are not planning to take TOEFL but would like to practice these very advanced skills.  Work in the language lab included.  60 hours.  $310 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 12:45-2:50pm Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:00-9:20pm Aug 26-Nov 20 Hickory Ridge

Effective Academic Writing *NEW*
In this class, you will develop the skill of writing coherent, well-developed short answers, the type of answers that are required in almost all college and university classes. You will also practice timed-writing so that you can prepare for in-class writing assignments.  Topics will include grammar, organization, and reading comprehension as they relate to effective academic writing.  The focus in this class is NOT on essay writing but rather on short answer writing.  Excellent for any college-bound student!   A placement test is required.  See registration times.  56 hours.  $245 (Books Included).
Tue, Thu 9:50-11:45am Aug 26-Dec 4 Hickory Ridge

Advanced Topics for Conversation 
Participate in active discussions of life in the USA with an emphasis on culture, food, travel, history, current events, and customs.  For ADVANCED students only.  Emphasis will be on learning new vocabulary, idioms, and pronunciation.  Students will also gain confidence speaking in front of a group.  35 hours.  $175 (Books Included).
Fri 9:30am-12:00pm Aug 29-Dec 5 Hickory Ridge

Listening & Speaking for the TOEFL On-Line
Does the speaking section on the new TOEFL iBT make you nervous?  Would you like to receive personalized instruction from a native-speaking TOEFL expert while sitting at your home computer anywhere in the world?  This online course is designed to help computer literate students improve their speaking and listening skills for the Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT). This is a completely on-line distance learning course using a new virtual classroom technology which allows an on-line “live” lecture and tutorials twice a week.  You will actually listen and interact with your instructor “live.”   If you are overseas or anywhere in the United States, you will have private tutoring to improve your speaking skills. You must be proficient with the computer in order to complete your assignments and you are required to have internet access and a head set, in order to take the course. The topics in the course include targeted listening, organizing a response, summarizing reading and listening passages, vocabulary development, pronunciation, and structure.  (You can register on-line or in person. See the link to On-Line courses on our website: www.howardcc.edu/esl.  Or e-mail us with questions: esl@howardcc.edu.  Books must be purchased separately.)  36 hours.  $190.
Tue, Thu (8:00-9:30am EST) Sept 2-Nov 20 On-Line

English at Home – Advanced   
This is a completely different kind of class. Most of the instruction will be on your own at home using a very popular, web-based learning program.  However, once a week you will meet individually with an instructor for ½ hour lessons to review and discuss problems from the week. Video-based stories are accompanied with complete on-line skills-based instruction (reading, writing, listening, and grammar) and complete assessment. You will enjoy the lessons while improving your advanced level skills. This is a perfect class for busy students!  52 hours.  $225 (Books Included).
Wed 5:00-8:00pm Sep 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

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PROFESSIONAL LEVEL ESL COURSES
(For Intermediate II, Advanced I & II.  See description for exact levels.  A placement test is required.  See registration times.)

English for Business Communication *Business/Professional Certificate* (Adv I & II)
This course is designed to improve the English skills of the business professional or someone interested in business pursuits.   Communication practice will focus around five key areas of business communication:  socializing, negotiating, using the telephone, presenting information, and participating in meetings.  50 hours.  $265 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 7:00-9:30pm Sep 15-Nov 19 Hickory Ridge

Advanced Oral Communication *Business/Professional Certificate* (Adv I & II)
Practice your English-speaking skills in this class for advanced speakers whether you need the skills for business or academic pursuits.  In fourteen class sessions, you will develop effective communication skills through discussions, oral readings, and short presentations.  Emphasis will be on organizational strategies as well as physical presentation skills such as body language and speech production.  You will also get practice using audio-visual aides for presentations.  This is a great class for students interested in academic goals, or business people needing to make presentations.  42 hours.  $220 (Books Included).
Sat 9:20am-12:00pm Sep 6-Dec 6 Hickory Ridge

Advanced Pronunciation Training *Business/Professional Certificate* (Adv II)                                                       
Reduce your foreign accent and learn to pronounce English in a way that will make others understand you better!   You will receive classroom instruction using the newest approaches and laboratory programs.  On four Tuesdays, special individual sessions will be held instead of the regular class.  We will help build a speech profile and give you specific errors to eliminate. The classroom instructor will oversee the Tuesday sessions, but students will work with trained pronunciation professionals at these sessions.  This is a perfect class for business professionals, academic instructors, or students wishing to improve speaking for business or academic purposes. Extra hours have been added over previous classes!  50 hours.  $390 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 7:00-9:30pm Sept 8-Nov 12 Hickory Ridge

Anatomy and Physiology for ESL Learners *NEW* (Int II and Adv I)
This practical course will assist intermediate and advanced students who want to enter a medical profession in the U.S. but need additional help with the necessary vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills. This course is helpful to the person who wants to begin the nursing assistant course, prepare for regular health science courses or needs a basic review of anatomy and physiology.  Learn the systems of the body and their functions, the vocabulary and pronunciation of medical terms and injuries, and investigate careers in the health sciences.  49 hours.  $140 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 12:30-2:50pm Sept 3-Nov 12 Hickory Ridge

Communication Skills for the Medical Professional *NEW* (Adv I & II)
If you are a healthcare professional but English is not your native language, you may be struggling to communicate effectively with clients and the general public.  This course is designed for physicians and healthcare professionals who want to practice in the U.S. or may already be practicing. This course will focus on the language needed to handle such tasks as expressing a diagnosis, negotiating a plan of action, speaking about sensitive issues, and reassuring patients.  The class will also focus on particular pronunciation problems and cultural differences that may be adversely affecting communication. Video and audio taping are part of this class, so come prepared to not only learn the language but to practice it.  50 hours.  $235 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 7:30-9:25pm Sept 3-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Preparation for the GRE
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Test is required for entry into many U.S. graduate schools. It measures critical thinking, verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning skills.  In this class, advanced ESL students will prepare for the verbal section of this test:  Analytical Writing and Verbal Reasoning.  (The quantitative reasoning skills will not be included.)  50 hours.  $300 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 5:00-7:00pm Aug 25-Nov 19 Hickory Ridge

Professional Writing On-Line *Business/Professional Certificate* (Adv I & II)
This on-line, advanced-level ESL writing course will prepare professionals for business/professional writing.  This is a completely on-line distance learning course using a new virtual classroom technology which allows an on-line “live” lecture once a week. If you aren’t available for the lecture, you will be able to access an archived version in order to listen to the presentation later.  Most of your instruction will be provided through on-line WebCT access with homework and writing assignments submitted electronically.  You are required to have internet access and a head set in order to take the course.  You must be proficient with the computer in order to complete your assignments.  Work on various types of professional writing will be included:  e-mail correspondence, conventions, memos, short reports, summaries, business letters, and resumes.  See the link to On-Line courses on our website: www.howardcc.edu/esl.  Or e-mail us with questions: esl@howardcc.edu.  45 hours.  $250 (Books purchased separately).
Tue 7:00-8:30pm Sep 23–Nov 25 (11 hours to reserve for live on-line instruction) On-Line

English Language Teaching *NEW* (Adv I & II)
This course is intended for advanced non-native speakers of English and will focus on language teaching methods and communicative-based ESL techniques.  It is designed for individuals interested in language training.  Participants will learn the foundations of language teaching and will be able to demonstrate the principles of good lesson design and best teaching practices.  At least three hours of classroom observation required outside of class.  50 hours.  $250 (Books included)
Mon, Wed 5:00-7:00pm Aug 25-Nov 19 Hickory Ridge

English for Starting a Business *Business/Professional Certificate* (Adv I & II)
Learn English in a meaningful, real business setting.  You’ll be learning the skills and the language to set up a “virtual” business.  In this interactive, hands-on class, you’ll actually set up a business.  You’ll work with classmates (your business partners) on how to identify a marketing niche, how to establish a business and assign duties, how to develop a business plan, and how to advertise.  By the end of the class, you should have developed the structure for a “virtual” business.  50 hours.  $235 (Books Included).
Mon, Wed 9:30-11:25am Sep 3(Wed)-Dec 3 Hickory Ridge

Career Advantage *NEW* (Int II and Adv I)
This is a career exploration and preparation class for non-native speakers with high intermediate to advanced English skills.  Finding the right job is difficult for native-speakers, but non-native speakers are often frustrated by the process and find themselves misunderstood both in language and culture.  This course will help the students determine what jobs really suit them, how to find the jobs, and how to get the right job. Topics will include career assessment, resume writing, electronic applications, networking, interviewing, and the culture of the U.S. workplace.  Students will also visit the HCC Career Services Center during some of the classes and learn what services they offer. 44 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration. 
Tue, Thur 7:00-9:00pm Sep 9-Nov 20 Hickory Ridge

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COMPUTER CLASSES FOR ESL STUDENTS
(For Intermediate I and higher students)

Intro to Computers and Word I
Start at the beginning and learn about the computer and word processing in clear, easy-to-understand English.  This course is for native speakers and non-native speakers alike – anyone who wants a slower approach and more practice time!  Mail in registration accepted.  30 hours.  $160 (Includes Computer Fee and Materials Fee).
Sat 9:00am-12:00pm Sep 6-Nov 8 Hickory Ridge#3689 YE 609 9700 
Mon, Wed 9:15-11:45am Sept 8-Oct 15 Hickory Ridge #3690 YE 609 9701
Tue, Thu 7:00-9:30pm Sept 9-Oct 16 Hickory Ridge #3691 YE 609

Intro to Computers and Word II
A more advanced, hands-on course to follow Intro to Computers and Word I.  Topics include the Windows operating system, (finding, creating, and moving files) and more advanced word processing (tables, borders, clip art, fonts, envelopes, bullets, page numbers, etc.)  Many practice exercises. Mail-in registration accepted.  20 hours.  $110 (Includes Computer Fee and Materials Fee).
Tue, Thu 7:00-9:30pm Oct 28-Nov20 Hickory Ridge
 #3692 YE 610 9703

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CITIZENSHIP PREPARATION

English for Citizenship
This course is a quick, easy introduction to US government and history for intermediate students.  You will learn English while you study and learn about US government.  Good for citizenship preparation or just to learn and practice some helpful English!  25 hours.  Free tuition; material fees collected during registration. 
Mon, Wed 10:00am-11:40am Sept 8-Oct 27 Hickory Ridge
Sat 9:30am-12:00pm Sept 20-Nov 22 Hickory Ridge
Tue, Thu 7:30-9:10pm Oct 12-Dec 4   Hickory Ridge

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