English as a Second Language
The college provides an extensive and expanding ESL program which is reviewed regularly in order to meet changes in the circumstances and needs of non-English speaking background students.
In addition to formal classes mainstream support is provided depending upon staff availability, and individual tutorial assistance is given where appropriate.
Mainline ESL T
This course consists of nine sequential units, and may be taken as a major, a minor, or major/minor. It is designed for those who have a good working knowledge of the fundamentals of English and who wish to improve their fluency in, and knowledge of, the language. Students are assessed to determine which entry level is appropriate for them.
Mainline ESL 1, 2, 3 and 4 cover the basic aspects of English - listening, speaking, reading and writing - and have a definite emphasis on oral communication and writing skills, to allow students to attain the high standard required for tertiary studies. Mainline ESL 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 include research skills, essay writing and an introduction to literature, thus providing a logical progression into English units, if required.
Up to two Mainline ESL units from 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 can be combined with English units to form an English major, provided that the following conditions are fulfilled:
- Mainline ESL units 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 must have been completed, or status granted; and;
- At least two of the English units completed must be literature units and one must be a language unit.
Up to two English language or literature units can be included in a Mainline ESL major.
Up to three English language or literature units can be included in a Mainline ESL major/minor.
Assessment: Class exercises, essays, group and individual work. Details of the specific assessment patterns for each unit are available from the ESL department.
Language Aide Skills T
Students enrolled in Mainline ESL may be interested in taking a major or minor in the Language Aide Skills course (translating and interpreting).
ESL A
This is intended for those students who have spent some time on, and gained some understanding of, basic English language skills through an intensive ESL program, and who wish to improve their understanding of the fundamentals of English. Students may study up to three accredited ESL units at the same time. Twelve units are available, to cover a variety of topics that best meet the students' needs.
English - Second Language R
These units available to students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are in need of specific assistance with assignments etc. Grammar, writing skills, reading skills, pronunciation skills and library introduction units are available. Mainstream support and individual tutorial assistance are provided where staffing permits.
School and Community Service R
Native English speaking students have the opportunity of working with ESL students to improve their language skills and knowledge of subject areas. In this way, both groups of students may obtain credit towards Community Service units. Credit can also be gained for a variety of activities in the school or community that students complete in their own time.
