TESL - Teaching English as a Second Language
Course Descriptions

TESL 5030 Language History, Planning and Policy (3)

This course looks at natural language change and then applies those theories to language diversity in the United States. Important laws, policies, and language planning are covered, including English Only policies, the Ebonics controversy, and bilingual education. Students will write their own language policies for a school and write about the effects of linguistic diversity in today’s classroom.

TESL 5040 Practicum in ESOL (3)

This practicum provides supervised field experience for students enrolled in this program. Reflective thought, observation, discussion, and actual teaching will be used to expand participants' teaching skills. Classroom participation includes observation, interaction, record keeping, and analysis of specific strengths and needs of English language learners. Strategies and activities are designed to meet the instructional needs of individual students. Participants will also focus on interpreting and recommending curriculum materials and methods to encourage and help English language learners become proficient in their new language. Prerequisite: candidacy.

TESL 5139 English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Methods (3)

Methods of Teaching Languages - This course develops understanding and appreciation for the nature of languages and language teaching and learning. Participants study the most recent developments in teaching techniques and materials, and become involved in on-site activities using them.

TESL 5220 Curriculum Development in Second Language Classrooms (3)

Participants will apply a curriculum-planning process to the second language classroom. The planning will be based on local standards and legal requirements, informal assessment of children's language, analysis and adaptation of published materials, and the creation of materials to meet identified needs.

TESL 5230 Second Language Acquisition (3)

Participants explore theories and models of second language acquisition. They learn about the emotional, social, and intellectual implications of the process of learning a second language. Students will analyze and compare first and second language acquisition and apply strategies related to second language learning in a cross-cultural setting.

TESL 5311 Principles and Practices of Language Testing (3)

This seminar introduces and analyzes different formats and types of language tests as a reflection of varied linguistic contexts, language teaching and language acquisition goals. Assessment techniques, practices and procedures are discussed in close relation to test validity and effectiveness. The class also covers the design, writing and administration of assessments. Prerequisite: Theories in SLA OR teaching experience OR consent of instructor.

TESL 5350 Language and Culture (3)

Culture greatly affects communication and the kind of language used in various situations.  This course focuses on both the different styles of communication found across different cultures and the strategies that speakers use when communicating within their own culture.  Special attention is paid to the role of Pragmatics and the use of “politeness strategies” in communication. Students will develop classroom materials that will help learners acquire the pragmatics skills they need to be successful communicators today.