Course Descriptions
The ESL Program curriculum has been carefully designed to prepare students to be successful in the competitive academic setting at Loyola University Chicago. Each ESL Program class focuses on the skills needed to help non-native speakers achieve advanced English language proficiency. A variety of topics and methodology are offered in support of our student-centered philosophy.
Here is a sample of courses offered during the academic year:
ESL 075 U.S. Culture and Traditions
Enhance your language acquisition with in-depth knowledge about the culture you are studying in. Students will satisfy their curiosity about U.S. customs and have an opportunity to share their perspectives. Students will also learn effective strategies for dealing with culture shock and misunderstandings.
ESL 091 University Grammar & Usage
Communicate more clearly and accurately with an in-depth study of advanced English grammar. Students will greatly improve their accuracy by identifying and using advanced grammatical structures in a variety of hands-on activities. Topics include: temporal frames and tense shifting, agreement, sentence structure, modals, transitions, embedded clauses, word order and form, phrasal verbs, verb/particle and verb/preposition constructions, idiomatic usage, and low-frequency structures.
ESL 092 University Writing Skills
Advance your academic writing skills. Students will develop the ability to effectively and accurately write using the rhetorical patterns most commonly used in universities. Students will also learn how to make citations of research sources and examine the cultural/ethical issues related to plagiarism.
ESL 094 University Reading & Vocabulary
Boost your reading speed and comprehension of university-level academic texts. Students will develop strategies for managing extensive reading assignments. Students will also increase advanced-level vocabulary from readings in general and specialized subject areas.
ESL 095 University Lecture Preparation
Extend your skills in spoken English and listening comprehension. This course includes intensive practice in advanced listening and effective note-taking skills using university lectures. Students will also develop their own oral presentation skills by focusing on the fundamentals of public speaking.
ESL 096 Communication Enrichment
Increase your fluency and become a more effective communicator in personal, academic, and professional contexts. Students will learn about cultural expectations and develop strategies for participating in classroom discussions and small group work. Students will also develop their interpersonal communication skills by practicing language techniques for a variety of situations.
ESL 098 American English Pronunciation
Speak clearly and be understood by others. Students will learn about and practice phonemic awareness and accuracy, stress patterns, intonation, and rhythm with extensive practice. Students will also be able to identify and improve their individual pronunciation issues.