ESL Information for International Faculty
Language and Communication Services at UMSL for
International Faculty Members & Visiting Scholars
English as a Second Language Services
560 Clark; phone 314-516-5186
Seminar for International Faculty Members
This semester-length program, created for faculty members, offers informal meetings to discuss a variety of topics selected by the group, including but not limited to:
- Understanding U.S. students’ attitudes and behaviors
- Using strategies to engage students and increase effective communication
- Helping students respect and value the international perspective you bring to UMSL
- Catching on to idioms, cultural references and humor in American English
- Consultation on pronunciation rules and intonation patterns in American English
- Living and working in the St. Louis area
Members may request individualized feedback on speaking skills and professional presentations. This seminar is limited to the first 10 registrants each semester. Weekly meetings are held at a mutually agreed upon time. There is no cost to participate.
To register, contact Denise Mussman, ESL Coordinator, at 314.516.5186 or denise@umsl.edu For questions, contact Peggy Cohen, Associate Provost for Professional Development, at 314.516.5308 or peggy_cohen@umsl.edu
UMSL offers a variety of advanced courses for those who would like to improve their communication patterns by:
- Increasing their discussion and presentation skills
- Acquiring a better understanding of native speakers
- Working on word stress, rhythm and intonation
- Feeling more confident while speaking English.
ESL 4301: Conversation and Pronunciation For pronunciation, rhythm, stress, conversational skills, American culture, presentations and more.
ESL 4307: Advanced Pronunciation and Accent Reduction
For those who have taken 4301 or are already advanced speakers in English, this course entails intensive pronunciation work, rhythm, and intonation patterns of American English. Academic speaking skills include participating in and leading discussions and delivering presentations. Ideal for TAs and faculty!
ESL 5400: The Seminar for International Teaching Assistants (ITAs)
Faculty may attend this course to learn to organize and deliver lectures, to understand cultural differences in teaching and to reduce accent and improve the pronunciation of words in their field. Strategies to facilitate communicate are also emphasized. Required for most ITAs!
English as a Second Language Courses Offered at UMSL
These courses are available to those whose second language is English. Permanent residents may need to take the ESL Diagnostic Exam to determine which courses will best meet their needs. ESL classes help students gain confidence to study and live in the United States, develop active use of English skills, understand the study system and expectations in American classes, transition through culture shock, and meet other international students. Contact the ESL Coordinator at 314-516-5186 for more information.
ESL 4301 Conversation and Pronunciation
In the American class, students are frequently expected to participate in class discussions. Many international students may not be comfortable speaking English with or in front of American students. This class addresses conversational skills, giving presentations, pronunciation and accent.
ESL 4302 Advanced Listening and Note-taking
Learn strategies to take notes during academic presentations, understand the organization of lectures, save time while note-taking, improve vocabulary, and improve test-taking skills.
ESL 3203 Intermediate ESL Reading and Writing &
ESL 4303 Advanced ESL Reading and Writing
These courses focus on reading skills, vocabulary, written expression, editing, and writing strong paragraphs and essays. For academic success at the university and in one’s future career, strong reading and writing skills are essential. Both courses need to be completed before enrolling in Freshman Composition (ENGL 1110) or Advanced Expository Writing for International Students (ENGL 3110).
ESL 3205 Intermediate ESL Grammar &
ESL 4305 Advanced ESL Grammar
These courses focus on understanding and using grammar in American English, the base of the language. Without strong grammar, it is difficult to communicate clearly in writing and speaking.
ESL 4307 Advanced Pronunciation and Accent Reduction
Non-native speakers of English who are fluent in English and/or have successfully passed ESL 4301 may experience other difficulties communicating clearly with native speakers. This advanced course is ideal for advanced students and faculty who would like or need to perfect their pronunciation, accent and speaking skills.
ESL 4603 Writing Research Papers
This course covers the entire process of writing effective research papers, including getting started, organizing ideas, citing sources, editing and avoiding plagiarism. Ideal for senior-level or graduate students!
ESL 5400 Seminar for International Teaching Assistants (2-hour, non-credit)
This course prepares students to organize and deliver lectures, understand American class culture, and help reduce accent and improve the pronunciation of words in their field. Graduate students who will be teaching an undergraduate course must first pass this course or seek exemption before the teaching assignment begins.
Revised 07/2009