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English Language Skills Development

Fall 2010 ESL Courses
All international students have the opportunity to take a full or partial load of ESL courses. However, F-1 and J-1 degree-seeking students admitted academically without submitting evidence of having met the University's English Language Proficiency Standard are required to take the language skills assessment exams upon arrival, regardless.

The first set of assessment exams will take place on Tuesday, August 17, 2010 from 8am-1pm in Palumbo Hall, Rooms : TBA. Results will be posted for this first set of exams on Tuesday afternoon in the International Student Office and Courthouse Commons. If required to return for a second set of exams, these will take place on Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 8am-1pm in the rooms listed above. (View Full Exam Details).

The assessment results will be available for class scheduling by Friday, August 20, 2010.

English Language Self-Assessment

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.

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.

• BBC's The Teacher
• 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.)
• American Pronunciation with manythings

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

Conversation Partners: A Language and Cultural Exchange Program
If you would like to meet with a native English speaker to practice English through informal conversation, please complete the Conversation Partner application form linked here.

Library 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

At Gannon University
Spouses in F-2 status may take classes on a part-time or avocational basis. Gannon University offers spouses the opportunity to sit for an assessment and then take up to 10 credits of ESL course work per semester. Those intending to participate in Fall 2010 ESL classes, should plan to participate in the assessments offered beginning August 17, 2010. See schedule here.

Application for Part-Time ESL Students
 
In the Erie Area
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 or phone to arrange a time to meet:
444 W. 18th St.
Erie PA 16502
874-6175 or 874-6176

GECAC offers English lessons for both beginning and advanced learners. They also provide onsite child care during the class times. For more information:
1006 West Tenth Street
Erie, PA 16502
(814) 451-5610

Room permitting, spouses will be allowed to particpate in Gannon's ESL courses after taking the language skill assessment.