English Language Institute Course Descriptions

The English Language Institute (ELI) provides a broad spectrum of instruction and support services for non-native speakers of English in the college community. Instruction is offered at all levels–beginning through advanced–and in all language skill areas. Specialized courses and programs are offered to meet the varying educational needs of the English as a Second Language (ESL) population at the college. All students entering the Institute receive a diagnostic assessment of individual needs and are advised as to their appropriate placement.

The English Language Institute offers the following programs and courses as a continuum of learning options designed to develop English language proficiency. The particular programs and courses selected are determined by the student’s educational and career goals and primary reasons for studying English.

Semi-Intensive English Program Non-credit

This nine-level program meeting six hours per week, on a variety of schedules, including: mornings, afternoons, evenings, Saturdays, and a new Friday Evening/Sunday morning program, is designed for students who want to work on all language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students receive language lab hours and individual attention. This program is also offered at selected Westchester Community College Extension Centers.

Intensive English Program Non-credit

This program is for students able to allot 15-18 hours per week to English study. The program is divided into two courses: grammar/writing/reading and listening/speaking skills with students placed at their appropriate level in each course. The intensive English program meets the needs of a diverse array of learners, such as preparation for university study or development of increased career possibilities.

Specialized ESL Courses Non-credit

Students with specific language learning goals may enroll in courses focusing on a particular skill or area of interest. These course offerings are continually updated and expanded in response to student needs. In some cases, there are prerequisites; interested students should request further information. Selected courses may also be available online.

  • Business English for Internationals

  • Computer Skills – Basics for ESL Learners

  • English Pronunciation

  • TOEFL Preparation Workshop

  • ESL Writing Workshop

  • English for Academic Purposes

  • Citizenship Exam Preparation

  •  English Through Music

Academic English Courses

The English Language Institute’s General Multi-Level ESL programs are designed to help students prepare for college courses and other uses of English, but the ELI also offers an English for Academic Purposes Program that focuses on academic English skills necessary for success in college courses. It is designed especially for learners scoring 4 on the Westchester Community College English placement essay at the Testing and Assessment Center, or who have College ESL level 6+. Additional assessment is completed at the first class session.

The following ESL academic writing courses are offered to matriculated students who must improve their writing skills before taking courses in the English Department.

ESL 004 Introduction to Academic Writing I 0 credits

This course is intended for non-native speakers of English whose English writing proficiency must increase before they are able to take Composition and Literature I and academic subjects that require essay examinations and college-level proficiency in writing. Through practice in sentence structure, and in planning, writing, and revising essays, students improve academic writing proficiency in English. Class hrs. 5. Prerequisite: A score of 5 or 6 on the Placement Essay Exam.

 

ESL 122 Introduction to Academic Writing II 3 credits

This course is intended for non-native speakers of English whose English writing proficiency must increase before they are able to take Composition and Literature I and academic subjects that require essay examinations and term papers. Through practice in sentence structure and in planning, writing, and revising essays, students continue to improve writing proficiency in English. Class hrs. 3. Two hours per week of tutorial work in the Academic Support Center are required. Prerequisite: A score of 7 on the Placement Essay Exam or passing grade in ESL 004 Intro to Academic Writing I.

 

Course Descriptions Table of Contents

 

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