English as a Second Language
The Intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) Program offers students the opportunity to improve English language skills while participating fully in the life of a North American university. In addition, students study the history, traditions, culture, and customs of the United States. All coursework is based on an integrated skills approach with listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar components.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota was founded in 1912 by the Catholic Diocese of Winona. It is now administered by the Christian Brothers in the tradition of the great educator, Saint John Baptist de La Salle. Its beautiful 400-acre campus overlooks the city of Winona and the upper Mississippi Valley. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association: www.ncahlc.org. It is a private, four-year, co-educational, residential, liberal arts institution. Saint Mary’s University enrolls 1,400 students who represent a wide range of interests, backgrounds, and religious faiths. Undergraduate academic programs include 57 majors divided into 22 departments of under-graduate(pre-graduate) programs. It also offers several pre-professional and post-graduate (master’s) programs.
ESL Program Curriculum
Grammar
Beginners learn instruction in the fundamentals of English grammar and usage. Advanced-level students study grammar combined with composition, speaking, listening and reading, open discussion, novels, magazines, video and use of computer software.
Conversation
Proper use of idioms, phrasing of colloquial American English, and conversational patterns. Advanced levels practice use of innuendo, nonverbal communication, and idiomatic phrases to communicate in class discussions, presentations, dialogues, and debates.
C.A.L.L. (Computer Assisted Language Learning)
Language software and ESL web sites help students improve their listening comprehension, pronunciation, reading, vocabulary and grammar skills.
Reading & Vocabulary
ESL students are instructed in the use of reading techniques such as skimming, scanning, timed reading assessment, inferring, predicting, and summarizing.
Composition
Beginners learn basic sentence and paragraph writing. Advanced-level students are instructed on how to write research papers.
U.S. Customs & Culture
Students receive an introduction to the lifestyle, attitudes, customs, and traditions of the people in the United States. They visit local families, schools and institutions.
TOEFL Preparation
Concepts and techniques include computer-assisted programs and audio-visual lessons especially designed for TOEFL preparation.
Pronunciation & Listening Skills
Coursework includes critical listening, speaking and pronunciation exercises. Individual assistance is provided to help students with their personal pronunciation difficulties.
Fiction
Curriculum is focused on reading and discussion of works by prominent American and British authors. Materials include novels, short stories and poetry.
Research Writing
Advanced students receive assistance with university work preparation.
Public Speaking
Students learn how to plan a speech; research a topic; develop a style, tone, and delivery; use visual aids, body language and humor; and ad lib. |
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