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English Literacy Program (ESL)

This program will teach English Literacy skills so that non-English speakers can communicate more effectively with their co-workers and supervisors at UNM.

The cost of the Spring and Fall 14-week program is $1500. The 8 to 10 week Summer Session is $825. Tuition Remission is accepted. Please click here to access the tuition remission form.

Overview

The ESL program was created to teach fundamental English As a Second Language (ESL) skills that will enable participants to communicate more effectively with their co-workers and supervisors at UNM. Employees will be able to register for program offerings, which will be scheduled each semester.

The program levels are:

Basic ESL

For the student who speaks, understands and writes little or no English, has difficulty communicating in work and life situations that require English, may communicate through gestures or a few words. Probably has no knowledge or use of computers.

Level 1 ESL

For the student who can understand and use simple English words and phrases, has some ability to communicate in English at work and in social situations, can read simple passages and fill out simple forms and read signs. May have minimal knowledge and use of computers.

Level 2 ESL

For the student who can understand and participate effectively and comfortably in English in everyday work and social situations, has a basic control of English grammar, can write simple sentences, and reads well enough to get by at work and in everyday activities. Probably can use basic computer applications.

ESL Special Session

This is a combined course for students at any level whose work schedule does not permit attending classes at the 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. time.

Commitment

The supervisor's endorsement of this development opportunity for his or her participating employee is critical. Here are ways the supervisor is expected to contribute to his or her employees' success in this program:

Full participation is required since attendance is a critical factor to learning a new language.

If an employee misses a class due to illness, the employee will need to contact his or her supervisor before the class time. The supervisor will then notify EOD at 277-1555. This will ensure the supervisor knows of the employee's attendance record and will prevent possible language barriers when calling EOD.
EOD will track attendance.

In order to truly learn a new language, the employee must practice it on a regular basis. The supervisor can help reinforce this learning by providing opportunities at work to use the newly acquired English skills.

Instructional Methods

All instruction will be student-centered and will include:

Large group, mini-lectures largely for grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, and listening activities.

Small group task work largely for speaking, reading and writing.
Individual tutoring largely for writing and one-on-one work in problem areas. EOD will track attendance.

Since participants are largely Spanish speakers, in the first level of the course, Spanish will be spoken to support the learning and support the instruction.
In addition to the group class, one-on-one instruction could be a supplement for those having difficulty with passing the assessment tests.

Class Schedule - Fall 2009 - Cost $1500

Course	Date & Time	Location
Combined Class (Basic, Level 1 and Level 2) Mon & Wed	2:00 to 4:00 September 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 October 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28 November 2, 4, 9, 16, 18, 23, 30 December 2, 7, 9, 14, 16	UNMBC

These classes are offered by UNM Division of Human Resources Employee & Organizational Development in partnership with UNM Continuing Education

Revised 01-SEPT-2009/JL