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English as a Second Language

The International Learning Center offers a new approach to learning English. In addition to our “Side by Side” standardized curriculum we regularly implement our state of art language learning lab. The lab is composed of a variety of miniaturized environments such as a home, garage, hotel and restaurant. This allows our students to learn the English associated with these settings. For example: When a student wishes to learn the vocabulary and verb usage associated with a home environment or a hotel and restaurant they will use miniaturized furnishings to learn the names of the items as well as learning to accurately apply "ing" "es" "s" "ed" etc. This is called conjugating a verb which is a very difficult concept to learn and it is often ignored. When students are able to do a task and apply the appropriate ending to the word they begin to understand this concept and quickly incorporate it into their vocabulary. The ILC is a very comfortable and encouraging environment in which to practice newly introduced “work place English.”

Ladies' Classes
We are currently offering six levels of ESL as well as “Foundations” for those who are learning to read and write for the first time. Due to space constraints all seven levels are not available in both AM and PM classes. Please see the “Class Schedule” page for more details.

From time to time we will be taking field trips to the grocery store, bank, clinic, and easily affordable restaurants. The students will be learning the necessary English for each place thus allowing for successful and competent independent living.

Men's Classes
The Men's program is undergoing major changes this year. The men will attend classes in six week modules. Classes will be held on Monday nights from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. It is our desire to design a program that is compatible with ever changing work schedules. Please see the “Class Schedule” and “Fees” pages for additional information.

Nursery, Pre-school and After School Homework Help

Pre-school will be offered during morning classes for enrolled children between three and five years of age. The children will learn such things as their ABCs, colors, shapes, numbers, role play, sequencing, and manners. Infants will be in a nursery separate from the pre-school. There will be regular childcare and homework assistance during the evening classes.

Health Classes and Heath Screening

The ladies will be offered health classes and health screenings periodically during the optional “Open Discussion” period after the ESL portion of class. This program is free of charge.

American Culture

American culture of the highest moral caliber is taught two different ways at the ILC. First it is taught during the optional “Open Discussion” after the ESL portion of class. Secondly, it is taught through application. We celebrate all of the major US holidays at the ILC.

Holidays

Thanksgiving
Ladies' Classes
During November we teach the history behind Thanksgiving followed by a huge formal Thanksgiving dinner. All of our students bring a dish from their country to add to the traditional American Thanksgiving dishes provided by the staff. This is the best international dinner in which one could ever hope to indulge! Not only do our ladies learn about Thanksgiving, they also learn the American etiquette associated with a formal table setting and meal.

Men's Classes
The men also learn about Thanksgiving and celebrate with a feast; however they prefer disposal dinnerware over the china!

Christmas
The first Friday in December we celebrate Christmas on a grand scale! The students all choose something that they would like to perform during the party. Some classes perform a number together, others may perform in a small group, and a few brave souls prefer to perform a solo. We have been blessed to have a concert pianist join us and provide incredible music; she also accompanies our student performers! Student selections range from singing songs, playing an instrument, reading poetry, or even performing a traditional dance! Everyone brings a dish from their country and we have an international buffet with over a hundred traditional dishes!

Valentines Day
Our ladies classes experience a formal “British High Tea” to celebrate this special day! Not only do they learn etiquette during this occasion, they also have the opportunity to practice two hours of English!

Graduation
Each May the ILC has a formal graduation exercise. The students march into the auditorium to “Pomp and Circumstance” while the audience stands out of respect. The students are honored for their achievements. Many awards are given for special things like “attendance,” “Student of the Year” “Student Volunteer of the Year” etc. Some classes also choose to perform for the occasion. During the 2010 graduation exercise the students will be featured in a very unique and special way!