The minor in English as a Second Language (ESL) is designed for the student desiring to teach English language learners in a variety of settings, in the United States and abroad.
Curriculum Highlights
At Olivet, students will study:
- The assessment of the bilingual student
- Cross-cultural studies
- The methods and materials for teaching
Practicums are an important part of this program. Students apply concepts they learn in the classroom to actual teaching experiences as they complete the required 40 hours of ESL clinical experience.
For the 30-hour field practicum semester prior to a student teaching assignment, students design and submit a proposal for how they will utilize ESL instructing strategies. In the past, students have served on summer mission trips to Romania, participated in Shalom Project trips during breaks, and tutored language learners in area schools.
For the ESL endorsement, students must complete 100 contact hours with K-12 language learners. Options include volunteering as a coach, tutor or camp counselor, or working with area residents who aren’t native English speakers to enhance their knowledge of the language.
Field Experience
Students will complete 60 full school days of supervised student teaching, and a 30-hour field practicum, which might include serving on a Shalom Project trip during a spring or summer break.
English Department >
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