ESL Program

Program Description

The INTERLINK curriculum emphasizes intensive language learning, academic preparation, and cultural awareness; the language component of the curriculum focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and skills necessary for successful academic and social adjustment in the U.S. Conditional admission is available to academically qualified students who graduate from the INTERLINK program.

Courses are offered at six different proficiency levels. Students study Communication Skills (CS) and Reading/Writing (RW) for 20 hours per week throughout nine-week sessions. There hours per week are dedicated to Special Projects.

Core Courses: 20 hours per week

At the elementary levels, skills are integrated; that is, students receive a strong foundation in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Instructors work together with students and other instructors to provide learning experiences which integrate these four language skills in every class.

In the intermediate level courses of Communication Skills and Reading/Writing, students build on the strong foundation achieved in the integrated skills classes. At these levels students develop strong reading skills to increase reading speed, comprehension, and vocabulary. In writing, students learn how to compose essays in different rhetorical modes. Communication skills are refined to the point that students are able to discuss topics and make oral presentations.

In the advanced Academic Preparation classes, students are exposed to materials and assignments which equip them with the skills necessary for success in the university environment. In these levels students are expected to understand and take notes on lectures, participate in discussions, make presentations, do library research, write research papers, and read sources related to their fields of study. At these advanced levels, students have the opportunity to take concurrent university classes for audit or credit.

Special Projects: 3 hours per week

New Student Orientation (INTERLINK 101)

In the first nine weeks of study, new students receive orientation and extra support in order to start strong and be successful in the INTERLINK program. They learn how to make the most of INTERLINK’s project-based approach to education and its experiential learning techniques. Students also learn study strategies and develop interpersonal and intercultural skills that will enrich their lives far beyond the INTERLINK 101 classroom.

Guided Independent Study Project

INTERLINK students are encouraged to experiment with English outside the classroom. Each week they are given information about campus and community events that provide opportunities for them to use their English as well as build relationships with Americans and other international students. Students report back to their advisers on their experiences, cultural observations, and reflections on their language use.

Opportunities for authentic language practice include participation in extracurricular programs such as conversation partners, friendship families, and general social events held at each INTERLINK center.

Typical Class Schedule