ESL 1a Critical Reading and Analytical Writing

Prepares students for the critical reading and analytical writing in English that will be expected as a Brandeis student. Students will read short fiction, non-fiction, as well as various academic texts. You will learn how to summarize a text effectively, recognize the elements of good academic writing, evaluate evidence and analysis in expository texts, and construct a convincing argument of your own. You will also learn the basics of research. In the process, you will increase your academic vocabulary, learn effective writing strategies and reach a greater understanding of American cultural values and controversies.

ESL 2a Oral Communications

Focuses on strategies for improving all aspects of speaking in an academic setting, including effective classroom interactions, giving presentations, and leading discussions. Class participation is an important part of the Brandeis experience, and you should be prepared to contribute ideas and opinions, as well as ask effective questions in class. Emphasis is on functional language used in typical university settings and cultural issues relevant to student life in the U.S. Class instruction is highly interactive with frequent opportunity for student input. In addition, you will receive training to improve your pronunciation and develop your vocabulary. Out-of-class assignments will be given to accelerate adaptation to Brandeis and to increase time spent speaking and thinking in English.

ESL 201g Academic Interactions

Focuses on strategies for effective classroom interactions, impromptu speaking, and interacting with instructors and advisors. Emphasis on functional language used in typical university settings. American culture issues will also be incorporated through course reading material. Class instruction is highly interactive with frequent opportunity for student input. A considerable amount of out-of-class assignments will be given to accelerate adaptation to American culture. Usually offered every fall.

ESL 203g Teaching and Presenting in English

Prerequisite: ESL 201g.

For graduate students who are required to teach in English or graduate students who wish to improve their presentation skills. Emphasis is on developing effectiveness of communication and clarity of speech, and engaging the audience during an academic talk or lab instruction. Teaching assistant responsibilities will be simulated during classes. Students will receive extensive peer and instructor feedback on comprehensibility as well as interpersonal and intercultural communication skills. Usually offered every spring.

ESL 205g Writing for Science I

Develops basic academic writing skills for graduate students in the sciences. The emphasis will be on acquiring fundamental language structures required for the genres of writing crucial to the sciences; emails, instructions/outlines, processes/procedures, summaries and lab reports. Students will benefit from classroom instruction, group work and peer reviews. Usually offered every fall.

ESL 206g Writing for Science II

Improves academic writing skills for graduate students in the sciences. The emphasis will be on acquiring language skills useful for preparing lab reports, summaries, research proposals, and academic papers for publication. Apart from class instruction and peer reviews, students will receive extensive feedback on their writing through individual conferences with the instructor. Usually offered every spring.