English as a Second Language

Language at Work provides instruction for English language learners with courses for large or small groups, and with coaching for individuals. English language learners have a variety of needs and interests, some of which are articulation, diction, and vocabulary, and some are related to the structure and behavior of conversation and comprehension. Our basic ESL course includes instruction in all of these elements of English language learning in the workplace, and our Presentation Skills course for Non-native English speakers includes some of these elements as appropriate to learning to give presentations.

Some clients prefer instruction that is more closely tailored to the needs of their group and workplace, and for them we develop courses that adapt our basic courses to their needs, or that focus on their immediate projects or concerns.

Below are our English as a Second Language Skills Courses. Please click for more information.

English as a Second Language: Writing and Oral

This program helps non-native speakers of English improve the clarity, conciseness and ease of their ability to communicate in English. Participants will develop confidence in improved speaking and writing. Participants will work at whatever level of English is appropriate for them either individually or in small groups.

Objectives:

• Learn basic English words and phrases as used in the workplace.
• Improve pronunciation and spelling of English.
• Develop strategies for predicting and managing typical workplace speaking situations.
• Consider idiom, slang and nuance of word meaning as part of vocabulary development.
• Learn organizational patterns of spoken and written English.
• Practice speaking situations with other participants.

Presentation Skills for Non-native Speakers

This course will help non-native speakers of English create and deliver presentations in English. Participants will work with materials they are using in the workplace, and will work at whatever level is appropriate for them.

Objectives:

• Learn basic elements of strong presentations.
• Understand common pitfalls for non-native speakers.
• Review and practice problem areas in pronunciation and intonation.
• Organize presentation material for maximum audience understanding.
• Learn to anticipate and address audience concerns.
• Know how to ensure understanding, and to manage questions.

Make Your Communication Work for You

This course will help participants improve the clarity and ease of their speaking in English by learning basic English pronunciation and vocabulary, and by learning to navigate common workplace situations. Participants will learn common behaviors and elements of spoken American English, and will learn to use them in conversations and other interactions.

Objectives:

• Understand common American English usage
• Learn common words and phrases as used in the workplace
• Learn to better distinguish letter sounds
• Consider the effect of tone and emphasis on meaning
• Develop strategies for predicting and managing typical workplace speaking situations
• Recognize behaviors that often accompany communication
• Learn strategies for increasing understanding