ESL Program, Loyola University Chicago:
Loyola University Chicago’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Program offers a rigorous, intensive language training program for people who are serious about learning English. With a progressive curriculum and 18 contact hours per week, the ESL Program is ideal for non-native English speakers preparing for undergraduate or graduate academic work in the United States. Students receive support from experienced language instructors and enhance their English skills as a result of superior training and hands-on learning opportunities. ESL courses are offered during the regular academic year and in the summer. The ESL Program is also able to customize courses for groups who have particular language learning goals and needs.
Loyola's ESL Program curriculum has been carefully designed to prepare students to be successful in the competitive academic settings. Each ESL Program class focuses on the skills needed to help non-native speakers achieve advanced English language proficiency. A variety of topics and methodology are offered in support of our student-centered philosophy.
Here is a sample of courses offered:
Business English: In this seminar, students will learn how to successfully communicate in the business world. Special focus will be on learning: business vocabulary, negotiating at meetings, writing proposals, and so on. All skill areas -- listening, speaking, reading, and writing -- will be emphasized.
TOEFL Preparation: Sharpen your test-taking skills and improve your TOEFL score. Students will become familiar with TOEFLiBT and learn strategies for achieving the score they need.
American English Pronunciation: Speak clearly and be understood by others. Students will learn about and practice phonemic awareness and accuracy, stress patterns, intonation, and rhythm with extensive practice. Students will also be able to identify and improve their individual pronunciation issues.
Grammar & Composition: Advance your academic writing skills and communicate more clearly and accurately with an in-depth study of advanced English grammar. Students will develop the ability to effectively and accurately write using the rhetorical patterns most commonly used in universities. Students will also learn how to make citations of research sources and examine the cultural/ethical issues related to plagiarism. *This is an accelerated course.
Reading & Vocabulary: Boost your reading speed and comprehension of university-level academic texts. Students will develop strategies for managing extensive reading assignments. Students will also increase advanced-level vocabulary from readings in general and specialized subject areas.
Listening & Speaking: Extend your skills in spoken English and listening comprehension. This course includes intensive practice in advanced listening and effective note-taking skills using university lectures. Students will also develop their own oral presentation skills by focusing on the fundamentals of public speaking.