Extensive reading introduces students to the literature of the United States and helps the student to improve reading speed and comprehension, increases the fluency skills that contribute to language learning and prepares students for the amounts of reading they will be expected to do at University. The techniques of skimming and scanning as well as reading for different purposes are emphasized and grammar issues are addressed as the need arises. The types and lengths of the readings vary depending upon the level of proficiency. 
    At all levels, students freewrite every day and work on planned writing weekly. The purpose of the writing curriculum is for students to become familiar with and gain practice in academic writing. The writing process involves choosing a topic, deciding how to focus it, organizing supporting ideas, understanding the audience and editing. Students are taught to vary their writing style as the purpose requires. Attention is given to grammatical accuracy and word choice in the final draft when writing is edited.
    During the listening/speaking classes, the focus is mainly on fluency and vocabulary development, although accuracy is important in all activities, particularly dialogue writing for oral production and planned oral presentations. The emphasis on accuracy increases with proficiency.
    Awareness and practice of English sounds, rhythm and intonation are taught throughout the program. Opportunities for self-correction are an important part of helping students build an awareness of their particular needs. Appropriate speech is taught through functions with increasing emphasis. Grammar issues related to the type and organization of the speech activity are covered as they arise.
    The teaching of grammar is incorporated into all language skills classes. Accurate speaking skills may be taught through a variety of activities such as having students audio record and evaluate themselves, perform short, planned and impromptu talks and create and perform skits with other members of the class. Textbook exercises are done for homework and reviewed in class either in small groups or by the instructor, reviewing the necessary grammar lessons for accuracy and comprehension. The course focuses on helping students become aware of their own errors and self-correction.
    All students have the opportunity to attend elective classes where the focus is on a specific content area: current events, drama, TOEFL, presentation skills, etc. Formal language teaching focuses on the skills necessary to debate, discuss, critically analyze, summarize, evaluate and re-write.

The typical student schedule (Fall and Spring semesters) is as follows:
 

*= Afternoon classes begin at 1:10 on Tuesday and Thursday.

Full Time Weekly Schedule = 21 Hours

A typical student schedule for the summer session is as follows: