English as a second language (ESL) class to begin April 6 at IUPUC

by Belinda Allen
April 1, 2015

The Center for Business and Economic Development (CBED) is offering area adults who are non-native speakers of English an opportunity to increase their general proficiency. English as a second language (ESL) classes will be held at Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) for four weeks beginning April 6. Three separate classes will meet once per week for four weeks. Participants have the option to register for one, two, or all three classes.

Class one: Vocabulary Building
This class focuses on building vocabulary while exploring a variety of topics. To rapidly expand their English vocabulary, participants will learn about word roots. Participants will also learn which words are useful in everyday life, versus a technical setting. The class meets on Mondays from 6:45 – 8:45 p.m., April 6 through May 4. The cost for this series is $135 and includes all materials.

Class two: American Conversation Topics
This class includes:

  • Conversational English including everyday expressions
  • Listening comprehension and fluency
  • Understanding American English idioms
  • Exploration of cultural dimensions of communication
  • Use of cultural examples as a vehicle to improve language proficiency

 This class meets on Wednesdays, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., from April 8 through May 6.
 The cost for this series is $70 and includes all materials.

Class three: Pronunciation
This class includes:

  • Focus on difficult sounds in English
  • Exploration of common differences in accent
  • Emphasis on American pitch and intonation
  • Developing an awareness of which sounds diminish in American English

This class meets on Wednesdays, from 7:45 – 8:45 p.m., from April 8 through May 6.
The cost for this series is $70 and includes all materials.

Classes will be taught by Devin Blankenship, a talented ESL instructor with more than ten years of teaching experience, including internationally. Blankenship will use Compelling Conversations, a widely recognized and respected text to supplement his instruction.

To register, go to www.iupuc.edu/cbed