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Choosing a language school for your child is an important educational step. The following
information should answer many of the questions you may have about sending your child to the
U.S. to study.
The ELA offers an intensive and rigorous language program for students who are serious about
pursuing an academic degree at an American college or university. Classes are small, no more
than 15 students per class; and teachers are dedicated to helping students achieve their academic
and personal goals.
ELA offers classes in reading and writing, listening and speaking, and TOEFL preparation.
The American system of study is based on the "holistic" method. This means both
the classroom environment and the outside home environment contribute to a student's success
in acquiring a language. ELA students, like American students, spend the majority of their
time practicing the language through class discussion, in-class projects, and homework. Tests
are given to measure progress, and are only a small part of the "holistic" approach
to learning.
Each student takes a TOEFL test the first week of classes for placement purposes, and a TOEFL
test at the end of the semester to measure progress. Placement is as follows:
- Beginner Level — TOEFL score under 31
- Low Intermediate Level — TOEFL score 32-45
- High Intermediate Level — TOEFL score 46-61
- Advanced Level — TOEFL score 62+
The University of San Diego is a competitive university with a prestigious reputation in the
United States. Students wishing to enter the university must have a TOEFL score of 80. Typically,
a student at the ELA can expect to make 10-15 point gain, per semester (14 weeks), on their
TOEFL test. Individual results will vary. For example, a student entering the ELA at the beginner
level (32) will need a minimum of 2 years language study.
Yes. Students who have reached the Intermediate level of English proficiency can go to one
of several excellent community colleges in San Diego. (View the link to the community college
system at www.CommunityCollegeUSA.com.)
Community colleges use an internal test to place students in English classes. Students can
take any number of courses approved by USD to satisfy both the General Education and English
proficiency requirements. Once a student passes the USD approved English class called "Composition
& Literature," at a community college, that student can apply to transfer in to USD.
California offers some of the best community colleges in the country. The community college
system is especially important for students who are learning English because it offers a wide
variety of courses which prepare students for rigorous university environment.
- Attend all classes.
- Complete all homework.
- Read, read, read. Newspapers, magazines, and books are excellent sources for building
vocabulary.
- Live with an American host family.
- Socialize with friends from other countries.
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