Programs of Study

   The ELI Approach:
Learning English at the ELI is intensive, interactive, and integrated in a rich cultural context. Full time students spend over 20 hours each week in classes, excluding optional classes and tutoring. Students are expected to be responsible for, and actively involved in, their learning. Subjects are taught in a global and coordinated fashion, with an emphasis on visual approaches to learning.

   Program Priorities:
Provide the highest quality instruction;

Prepare students to enroll in a post-secondary academic program or return to the world of work as soon as possible;

Instill the confidence necessary for success in academic and social environments.

We strive to meet these priorities through the use of professionally trained instructors; continual program review to incorporate the best available methods; small class sizes; an intensive program of 20+ classroom hours each week; personal attention to individual needs; and the establishment of a strong sense of community among students and staff. Our rate of success in high: over 85% of students completing our highest level English course are accepted into university study.

   15-week semester format
The ELI offers courses in a 15-week semester format. Required courses (with weekly class hours) include:

   English as a Second Language (ESL)
English as a Second Language (15 hours) offers at four levels of difficulty, depending on student proficiency, ESL provides instruction and practice in the grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing skills necessary for successful communication in academic environments.

   American Sign Language (ASL)
American Sign Language (3 hours) teaches receptive and expressive sign language skills and the basic grammar and vocabulary of ASL.

   Cross Cultural Communication (CCC)
Cross Cultural Communication (3 hours) introduces students to the principles of communicating across cultures, with an emphasis on special concerns of deaf people and the Deaf community. Students learn to apply the principles to their own communication and to improve their ability to communicate effectively in the academy and in the community.

   Optional Courses
Optional courses, depending on student interest and staff availability, offers individualized tutoring is available to all registered ELI students at no additional cost. Most students achieve their goals after one or two years in the ELI, though they may continue longer with permission from the Director.

   Progress Reports and Certification
Each student’s progress is being assessed throughout the semester. At the end of each semester, teachers provide a written report on the student’s progress and performance. Students who do not perform satisfactorily may be asked to leave the program. At the end of each academic year, students who make satisfactory progress are awarded a Certificate of Attendance. Students performing exceptionally also are awarded a Certificate of Recognition.