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English Language Skills Development

Many international students who study at Gannon University speak English natively, but may not have attuned the ear to new accents, nor have familiarity with certain American words, phrases, and idioms.

English Language Self-Assessment

This Web site provides two sets of self-assessment questionnaires which you can use to determine where you might need to strengthen your language skills. One set of questions asks you to reflect upon your level of English language listening and reading skills, and the other your English language speaking and writing skills.

Training your Ear before you Arrive with Online ESL Resources

You can begin to accustom your ear to the sounds of American English, and work on your own pronunciation---even before you arrive to Erie---by taking advantage of the many ESL sites online, some of which include audio labs.

• KanTalk (this is an interactive site that features native Hindi speakers pronouncing a dialogue, while working to use an American rhythm and intonation)
• Cyber Listening Cafe
• Dave's ESL Cafe  
• Sounds of English (pronunciation videos and diagrams)
• About.Com ESL Links
• Business English (includes interactive mock interviews, etc.)

There are a number of other online resources for learning vocabulary and grammar through quizzes, games, and other activities. Many of the sites listed above include such activities.

Gannon University and Erie Community
ESL Resources

The Erie County Public Library offers a number of ESL resources including CDs and cassettes, as well as English grammars, vocabulary builders, and other ESL books.

Gannon's Nash Library offers for checkout workbooks that will assist in preparing for the TOEFL.

ESL for International Spouses
There are several community ESL classes and programs open to spouses in J-2 and F-2 status. One is through the City of Erie School District at the Adult Learning Center. Interested spouses should go to the Center to learn more about class schedules, curriculum, and expectations for participation:

444 W. 18th St.
Erie PA
Phone: 874-1675

ESL classes are also offered on campus in Gannon's Palumbo Center on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 6-8pm. Please phone the International Institute of Erie to learn more: 452-3935.