English Language Program

This course provides an introduction to basic grammatical structures for students who speak English as an additional language. Students study and practice present, past, and future verb tenses, question forms, nouns and pronouns, and expressions of time and number in both written and oral form.

This course provides students who speak English as an additional language with instruction and opportunities to write at a fundamental level. Students use and practice the verb forms studied in Grammar courses in their writing assignments and learn to use basic sentence and paragraph structure. Students begin to use fundamental components of the writing process to write about personal and familiar topics. Students use the lab for some class work and keep weekly journals to write about their experiences.

This course helps students who speak English as an additional language to improve their understanding of English through reading at a fundamental level. Students build basic vocabulary, develop an understanding of word forms, learn to use reading skills such as skimming and scanning, and discuss ideas through reading selected material.

This course develops students’ ability and confidence to conduct fundamental conversations in English about common daily subjects. Students use common functional vocabulary, form simple phrases and questions, and practice high frequency grammatical structures to communicate personal needs, express personal likes and dislikes, and report personal and factual information.

This course provides instruction and opportunities for students who speak English as an additional language to practice grammar at an intermediate level. Students study and practice ways to use different verb tenses, including present, past, and future, as well as time clauses, question patterns, nouns and pronouns, and modals.

Prerequisites:

EASL 015 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course provides students who speak English as an additional language with instruction in writing and opportunities to write at an intermediate level. The course helps students develop their ability to write sentences and paragraphs using the forms and structures studied in their Grammar courses. Students are introduced to the writing process and write descriptive and narrative chronological paragraphs. Students use the lab for some class work and also keep weekly journals to write about their experiences.

Prerequisites:

EASL 016 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an intermediate course for students who speak English as an additional language. Students read and discuss selected articles from the textbook and other sources with a focus on developing vocabulary and understanding meaning. Students develop their knowledge of word forms and use reading strategies such as guessing meaning from context in understanding main ideas. Students are encouraged to do supplementary reading and begin to use an English dictionary.

Prerequisites:

EASL 017 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course develops students’ ability to communicate beyond the basic skills related to personal and factual topics. Students develop vocabulary and grammar for informal conversations, listen to and practice natural speech patterns, and learn strategies for engaging in everyday conversations and classroom dialogues.

Prerequisites:

EASL 018 with a “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course provides instruction and opportunities for students who speak English as an additional language to practice grammar at an intermediate level. Students study and practice selected grammar structures, including connectors, gerunds, infinitives, passives, adjective and noun clauses, reported/direct speech, basic conditionals, comparisons, and phrasal verbs.

Prerequisites:

EASL 025 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course provides students who speak English as an additional language with instruction in writing and opportunities to write at an intermediate level. This course helps students to develop their ability to write accurate, simple, compound and complex sentences. Students learn to apply components of the writing process to produce clear, well-structured expository paragraphs (e.g. descriptive and narrative) that express meaningful ideas. Students are also introduced to multi-paragraph writing. Students keep weekly journals to write about their experiences.

Prerequisites:

EASL 026 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an intermediate course for students who speak English as an additional language. Students read and discuss selected simplified and authentic articles from the textbook and other sources with a focus on building vocabulary and knowledge of word forms, applying reading strategies such as predicting and inferring, increasing reading speed, identifying structure, and understanding and responding to current ideas. Students are encouraged to do supplementary reading and use both bilingual and unilingual dictionaries.

Prerequisites:

EASL 027 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course provides opportunities for students to take an active role in initiating, sustaining and closing social conversations. Students learn to use relevant vocabulary and idioms as well as a range of intermediate grammatical structures to express opinions on familiar topics in discussions and presentations. Students learn to comprehend and produce a range of functions (e.g. clarifying and requesting clarification). Students also learn to use natural English speech patterns, intonation and rhythm and improve their listening comprehension using a variety of media sources and interpersonal communication. Students begin to take simple notes while listening.

Prerequisites:

EASL 028 with a “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an advanced academic course which is intended to help students develop accuracy and gain fluency in the use of verb tenses and related structures such as modals and passives.

Prerequisites:

EASL 035 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an academic course in writing for students who speak English as an additional language. This course includes a focus on advanced elements of effective paragraph writing, an introduction to essay formats in a variety of rhetorical styles, and an introduction to research and paraphrasing. Students use the writing process to develop their academic writing skills and keep a personal journal to develop fluency and to generate reflective ideas. The course consists of a weekly lecture and an interactive writing workshop with the instructor in the lab.

Prerequisites:

EASL 036 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an advanced academic course which is intended to help students read, analyse and discuss selected modified and authentic contemporary articles from the textbook and a variety of other sources. The course focuses on learning and applying reading strategies such as using context, headings, and format to determine main ideas. Students practice active reading to make meaning and to understand and respond to ideas. Students are expected to use a unilingual English dictionary and use the college library for independent reading.

Prerequisites:

EASL 037 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course develops advanced spoken language skills for students to use in discussions of various topics inside and outside the classroom. Students express their own ideas and opinions and contribute actively to informal discussions and formal presentations. Students develop their awareness of varieties of spoken language according to purpose, topic and audience, their understanding of concrete and abstract words and phrases, and their use of appropriate sound, rhythm and stress patterns. Listening and note taking skills are developed through presentations, discussions, and media resources.

Prerequisites:

EASL 038 with a “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an advanced academic course which is intended to help students develop accuracy and gain fluency in the use of complex grammatical structures including noun clauses, adjective clauses, adverb clauses, conjunctions and connections, gerunds and infinitives.

Prerequisites:

EASL 045 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an advanced academic course in writing for students who speak English as an additional language. The course focuses on using the writing process for planning, writing, and revising to produce well-developed multi-paragraph academic essays, including comparison / contrast and argumentative research. Attention is given to the use of accurate and effective research techniques. The course consists of a weekly lecture and an interactive writing workshop with the instructor in the lab.

Prerequisites:

EASL 046 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is an advanced writing course for students who speak English as an additional language. This course focuses on business and non-essay writing styles. Students learn to write reports, summaries, reviews, newspaper articles and formal written communications. Students use research skills and develop necessary critical skills to edit and review their own writing.

Prerequisites:

EASL 046 with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent.

Academic Reading is an advanced course which includes study and discussion of a variety of modified and authentic academic reading selections taken from the textbook and other sources. The course focuses on the development of vocabulary and specific reading strategies, including making notes and summarizing information, as well as on the understanding and analysis of texts on academic and social topics. Students develop their ability to read critically and discuss academic texts and to use a unilingual English dictionary.

Prerequisites:

EASL 047 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

World Literature is a required advanced academic reading course which includes study and discussion of a variety of short stories, poems, and essays of moderate length written by Canadian and international authors. The course focuses on the understanding of the meaning of texts in the context of a global society. Students learn to recognize major themes in literature and comprehend and apply basic literary terms. Students develop their ability to respond reflectively to literature in both oral and written form.

Prerequisites:

EASL 047 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent.

Media Reading is an advanced academic reading course which includes study and discussion of a variety of reading selections of moderate length taken from current media sources, including print newspapers and magazines as well as articles from the internet. The course focuses on the development of vocabulary and specific reading strategies that can be used in understanding and critiquing texts on topics of contemporary social and cultural interest. Students develop their ability to read critically and respond to media reports on current issues.

Prerequisites:

EASL 047 with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent.

This course focuses on advanced speaking and listening skills. Students use complex grammar, vocabulary and advanced communication strategies to explore relevant issues in a variety of academic, social and cultural situations. Accuracy, fluency, comprehension and quantity of speech are reinforced through conversation, dialogue, debate, role play, listening practice, and other communicative tasks. Students take notes from oral academic discourse including lectures and presentations.

Prerequisites:

EASL 048 with a “C” or better, or equivalent.

This course is for advanced English language learners who wish more in-depth grammar focus. Students identify weaknesses in their writing and grammar, and refine their skills through self and peer editing, discussion and practice. There is a focus on common sentence problem areas such as fragments, splices, run-ons and misplaced and dangling modifiers, as well as paragraph and essay development.

Prerequisites:

EASL 055 Grammar with a grade of “C” or higher or equivalent skills.

This course develops advanced writing skills required for college and university standard research writing. Students explore and write using different research theories and learn to revise and edit for academic purposes.

Prerequisites:

EASL 056A or EASL 056C with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent.

Integrated Studies is an advanced course for students who speak English as an additional language which is designed to help students refine their overall English language skills. It can be considered as an entry level course into Selkirk College programs in conjunction with completion of the Advanced English Language program.

The course includes study and discussion of a variety of short stories and articles and a novel. Students develop their ability to comprehend and analyze lengthy complex texts, identify and apply literary elements, including theme, character, and setting, and respond to readings in both written and oral form. The course includes a focus on the writing of paragraphs and research essays and the use of editing skills for improving grammar. Active participation in discussions and presentations is an important part of the course.

Prerequisites:

Completion of at least 50% of advanced English language program with a grade of “C” or equivalent skills.

Community Outreach is a course for English language students who have completed Advanced Communications. Students initiate, plan, and facilitate community based projects which involve interaction with native speakers in real life contexts. Students work independently and in teams to prepare, implement, and evaluate projects. Community Outreach is designed to build leadership skills and improve professional speaking, delivery and reporting methods.

Prerequisites:

EASL 058 or TREC 159 with a grade of “C” or higher, or equivalent skills.

Music Appreciation is a multi-level communications seminar. Students will enjoy listening to and learning about different kinds of music. They will learn new vocabulary and expressions from the words in the songs. They will also practice pronunciation, intonation and rhythm through singing.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in English Language Program.

Art and Photography is a multi-level communications seminar designed to use various forms of art and photography to expand student’s English language skills. Using various creative media, students will produce their own art work. Additionally students will visit local galleries, studios and artisans to discus and share ideas.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Movies and Discussions is an interactive communicative seminar which offers students an opportunity to watch international movies chosen by the class. Students practice their speaking and listening skills and increase their vocabulary while introducing, watching, and discussing movies. They also have a chance to write about and share their ideas and opinions.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Movie Making is an interactive communicative seminar which helps students gain confidence and fluency in their use of English by creating a fictional video. Students work cooperatively to write, design, plan, act in, and produce a short movie by the end of the term.

Corequisites:

Current enrollment in an English Language Program Communications course.

Theatre is an interactive communicative seminar for students who are interested in improving their English while working with other students in role plays, theatre games, and performances. This seminar helps students to improve pronunciation and non-verbal communication skills and gain confidence working in a team and speaking in public.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Volunteer Internship is an advanced interactive communicative seminar where students can volunteer once a week at a business, service or organization in Castlegar. This experience gives students an opportunity to learn more about the community and use their English in a real setting.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Community Adventures is an interactive communicative seminar to help students develop their speaking and listening skills while visiting a variety of cultural, educational and service settings in the local community. Assignments and projects are based on field experiences.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the fundamental or intermediate English Language Program.

Canadian Studies is a multi-level interactive communicative seminar for students who are interested in learning more about Canada. Students study such topics as the geography, history, culture and politics of Canada. Students are able to learn more about Canada in relation to their home country and culture.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Leadership is an advanced interactive communicative seminar which offers opportunities for students to learn about and practice leadership skills both individually and as a group. The class works together to discuss, plan and do projects of their choice. Students gain real experience organizing and working as a multicultural team and learn valuable skills for future work situations.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Newspaper is an advanced interactive communicative seminar which offers an opportunity for students to create and produce a student newspaper/magazine for the term. Students interview people in the college and the community, write and edit articles, collect information about student events, take pictures, design art work, and coordinate the publication of the newspaper. This seminar helps students improve their speaking, listening, writing and computer skills as well as learn to work as a team.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Academic Preparation is an advanced communications seminar for students who are planning to continue their studies in English and want to improve their academic study skills. Students will work towards improving their listening, note-taking and discussion skills using authentic English and topics of interest.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Speaking Professionally is an advanced interactive communicative seminar which provides opportunities for students enrolled in the Advanced English Language Program to practice professional public speaking skills. The course helps students build confidence in developing and presenting ideas publicly, in responding to questions and comments, and in developing clarity of speech.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Tourism Communications is an advanced interactive communicative seminar which uses classroom lectures, readings, group projects and field trips to enhance students’ understanding of the tourism industry. There is a focus on the social and economic impact of tourism, customer service, employment opportunities, and Canadian tourism destinations.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Teaching and Learning Languages is an advanced interactive communicative seminar which introduces students to teaching and learning useful words and expressions in different languages, as determined by the members of the class. Students have the opportunity to develop lessons and teach their own language to the class as well as learn to communicate in other languages. Students learn and share various methods and strategies for language teaching and learning as well as learn about the languages and cultures of other students.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Independent Projects is an advanced interactive communicative seminar that provides opportunities for students to design and create their own projects and study opportunities based on their personal interests. Students refine their language skills through individual interviews, project planning and facilitating and team work.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Global Cooking is a multilevel interactive communicative seminar that provides students with opportunities to make and eat food from many different cultures. The students in the class teach other students how to make a favourite dish from their culture. All the students cook and eat together and learn the necessary vocabulary and language skills to share their pleasure in international foods. Students also develop an awareness of other cultures’ customs and learn some practical cooking skills.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

International Recreation is a multilevel interactive communicative seminar that provides students with the opportunity to increase communicative skills as they learn and teach both the rules and the methods of various recreational activities. Students are expected to learn about different sports and also share sports and recreational activities popular in their cultures.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Outdoor Recreation is a multilevel interactive communicative seminar aimed at giving students opportunities to develop their speaking and listening skills as they receive instruction in, discuss, and enjoy outdoor activities popular in the Kootenay area. Activities may include, but are not limited to canoeing, hiking, golfing and various winter sports, depending on the season.

Corequisites:

Current enrollent in the English Language Program.

Nature Studies is a multilevel interactive communicative seminar which teaches students about the natural environment and culture of the Castlegar area. Students study topics such as animals, plants, geography and history. Students learn in the classroom but also have opportunities to go on outdoor field trips.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Skiing/Snowboarding is a multilevel interactive communicative seminar that teaches students listening, speaking, and reading skills through ski industry based articles, presentations and discussions. Students interact with native speakers through excursions to various local ski areas.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the English Language Program.

Partnership is an interactive communicative seminar which connects English language learners with other students who are native English speakers for informal meetings. The ESL student and their partner meet once a week for conversation and sharing of cultures and interests. This seminar provides an opportunity to practice English in a one on one situation.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the fundamental or intermediate English Language Program.

Debates and Dialogues is an advanced interactive communicative seminar where students read, discuss and debate. Students work on improving their speaking and listening skills while they learn and practice how debates and formal discussions are structured.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

Global Discussions is an advanced interactive communicative seminar where students have the opportunity to explore and learn about a variety of topics. Students work on building vocabulary and discussion skills as they increase their knowledge and understanding of important issues in the world today. Students also have the opportunity to share their ideas and opinions with other Canadian college classes and /or students.

Corequisites:

Current enrolment in the advanced English Language Program.

This seminar helps students develop testing skills necessary to be successful when taking standardized English language placement tests. They will practice the listening, writing, grammar and vocabulary skills and explore exam taking strategies needed for success.

Prerequisites:

Current enrolment in the intermediate or advanced English Language Program.

This course emphasizes a practical approach to business writing and speaking for advanced students. TREC 159 provides opportunities for students to use business communication tools including reports, memos, business letters, résumés, interview skills, oral presentations and visual aids. Business language strategies are emphasized to give students the skills to become effective cross-cultural communicators. These strategies include clarity of spoken and written English, the use of appropriate vocabulary, and an awareness of cultural variations in business organizations.

Prerequisites:

Completion of one semester of advanced communications with a 'C', or better, or equivalent.