About the Program
Program Mission & Description
Program Mission: The Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program provides high quality instruction through innovative teaching practices and experiential learning. It prepares teacher leaders to be knowledgeable, creative thinkers, and reflective decision makers.
Program Description: This certificate program provides training for public or private school teachers or para-educators who wish to enhance or improve their skills working with English Language Learners.
Teaching English as a Second Language K-12 Certificate Required Courses
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Getting into the Program
Application Process and Admission Requirements
Application Process:
Students are strongly encouraged to contact the campus program director before enrolling to gain a clear understanding of the program and whether it meets their needs. Students must first complete an application. Students can attend an informational meeting (held once per semester).
Program Admission Requirements:
1. Complete and submit applications for admission to the Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program and to FRCC at www.frontrange.edu/tesl.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in English by placing into ENG 121 or above. International students seeking admission to the program are required to have a minimum score of 475 on the paper/pencil TOEFL test, a score of 153 on the computer-based examination, or an “equated” score of 75 on the Michigan Test of English Language proficiency.
3. Apply to FRCC for admission upon acceptance into the program.
Assessment testing is required for all students. Students who place into ENG 121 or above and MAT 050 or above may begin this program of study.
What You Will Learn
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program you will be able to:
- Analyze the major elements of language as a system, and articulate the relationships between the various elements (phonology, morphology, syntax, lexis).
- Use the knowledge and understanding of the elements of language system to explain language to non-native English speakers.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the intersection between culture, language, language learning and teaching. Apply theoretical knowledge of current language acquisition theories in second language learning contexts.
- Identify instructional strategies and teaching methods, curriculum frameworks and apply them to various language learning and teaching situations.
- Develop ESL curriculum plans for diverse groups, design and utilize assessment instruments.
- Complete a supervised practicum in which you plan lessons and teach English to an ESL class.
- Evaluate your own teaching with regard to outcomes 1-5 above.
- Effectively write and present for professional audiences.
Career Opportunities
Teach English to adults and school-age children. Work as a tutor, paraprofessional, or teacher.
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My Academic Plan
My Academic Plans (MAPs) are designed by faculty to better guide you in retention and completion. It is highly encouraged that you complete courses in the recommended order provided below in the notes section. You should work with an academic advisor to adjust your plan based on your scheduling needs.
First Semester
Courses should be completed in the order listed below. If you are unable to complete the entire semester list, complete as many courses in this sequence as your schedule allows. TEL 225 may be taken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.
| TEL 103 | Career Strategies for the TESL Workplace | 1 |
| TEL 100 | TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) English Study | 3 |
| TEL 102 | Procedures and Techniques for the English as a Second Language Classroom | 3 |
| TEL 225 | Second Language Acquisition | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 10 |
Second Semester
Courses should be completed in the order listed below. If you are unable to complete the entire semester list, complete as many courses in this sequence as your schedule allows. TEL 225 may be taken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.