ESL FAQ

How many levels of ESL are there? 37 views

There are 9 levels in the part-time Adult Basic Education program. The part-time Adult Basic Education program serves students who do not know any English through college readiness in English. All students are assessed and placed according to their abilities upon entry to both programs.

English as a second language (ESL) instruction at ECC is for all non-native English speakers from any language, group, or nationality. Instruction includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking and is conducted entirely in English. Classroom instruction and college support services allow immigrant students to progress toward self-sufficiency and economic success. 

All classes are offered free of charge to eligible immigrant students.

Students will attend a pre-course workshop to prepare for language learning success before enrolling in ESL classes. 

Beginning ESL Instruction

The purpose of these courses is to help English language learners improve their reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills in English; improve their mathematics and basic technology skills; and acquire an understanding of the American system of government, individual freedom, and the responsibilities of citizenship so that these learners can be full participants in their community. Upon completing the high beginning level, students may exit the program or transition to intermediate ESL instruction to work on career or academic readiness.

Intermediate ESL Instruction

These classes aim to equip students with the skills needed for career and academic readiness. Along with improving basic reading, writing, speaking, listening, and mathematics skills, students will develop the academic and soft skills necessary to transition to college or a career successfully. Upon completing the high intermediate levels, students may exit the program to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, enter a career/vocational training program, transition to advanced/academic ESL classes, or enter the workforce. An academic advisor is available to help students make the transition.

Advanced ESL Instruction

The purpose of these classes is to prepare students to enter college-level classes. Students who want to enroll in advanced ESL classes must first meet with an ESL staff member and take the appropriate placement tests. Students in these levels focus on the academic reading, writing, speaking, listening, and technological skills needed to transition to college-level work.

Students are ready to enroll in college degree programs after completing the advanced levels. Students interested in transitioning to college-level programming are encouraged to take the College Transitions for ESL Learners course. Students interested in this course must receive a recommendation from faculty or staff to enroll. Students in this course must co-enroll in a transferable credit college class. Upon successfully completing the College Transitions for ESL Learners course, in-district tuition for one three-credit-hour college class will be waived. Individuals must live or work in the district to be eligible for the waiver.