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English As A Second Language (ESL)

The Cascadilla School is proud of its more than sixty years of conducting an English as A Second Language (ESL) program. The key to the success of Cascadilla’s ESL Program is a curriculum that meets the individual needs of each student and a continued commitment to small classes – all ESL classes are limited to no more than ten students. In Cascadilla’s ESL program, students are enrolled in four hour-long classes daily, Monday through Friday, with an optional elective course in preparing for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). ESL students at Cascadilla are also given assistance in assembling the necessary forms and letters needed to apply to American colleges and universities.

The ESL curriculum includes three levels of instruction:

1. The Beginning Level is divided into two sections: one for students with no formal English training and the other for students who have had a limited exposure to English. Both sections emphasize oral comprehension and communication skills in reading, speaking, and writing. Classroom instruction by teachers experienced in all areas of language education help make sure students make steady progress to the next level.

2. The Intermediate Level is divided into specific areas of language skills. Courses are offered in reading and vocabulary building, grammar, written composition, and oral communication skills.

3. The Advanced Level offers students a broad range of academic courses which integrate ESL students with college-bound American students. Additional courses are regularly available in preparing for the TOEFL and in American literature and U.S. History for non-native speakers.

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