ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

The overall goal of the program is for students to develop and refine listening, speaking, reading, writing, and computer skills, so that they can make rapid progress toward their own academic, vocational, or employment “next steps.” Two services, Distance and Online Learning for ESOL Students and the Citizenship Program, provide additional support and are discussed below. This program serves over 200 students annually in four levels of classes.

Curriculum

The four class levels address a wide range of language skills. All students spend a minimum of one hour weekly in the computer lab using Rosetta Stone or other appropriate software designed to both reinforce classroom instruction and to accelerate language acquisition.

 

Classes

Class size is capped at 20 to ensure that students receive the instructional time and support they need.  Volunteers provide individual or small-group tutorials outside of class to reinforce classroom instruction. 

 

ESOL-Related Services

• Distance and Online Learning for ESOL Students NDEC is the hub for and a partner in ESOL distance and online learning in Massachusetts. Participation in this service provides many ways to build language skills: additional instruction, a weekly conversation class, an online community website and blog, and other supports tailored to the individual. Participants spend a minimum of 5 hours a week online. For further information, please contact Margaret Lanen, SND, Distance Learning Coordinator, at (617) 268-1912 x303, or mlanen@ndecboston.org.

 

• Citizenship Preparation Citizenship classes are offered to students who are in the process of naturalization. The classes focus on the basics of United States history, the role of its government, and the responsibilities of its citizens. Assistance is provided in the preparation of the N400 naturalization application. Case management and immigration counseling services are available. To enroll in citizenship classes, students must be at least 18 years old; have had their Green Card for at least 5 years (at least 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen); be prepared to present their Green Card at the first class; and speak, read, and write basic English at the NDEC ESOL Level 3 or 4 (or test to that level if not enrolled in NDEC classes). There is a $75.00 registration fee due at time of acceptance for applicants who are not NDEC students. For further information or to apply, please contact Sr. Gerry Stanton, SND, Immigration Case Manager, at (617) 268-1912, or email gstanton@ndecboston.org.