English Language Resources
International Services Office
Many classes are available to help non-native speakers improve their command of English. These programs provide a variety of courses (such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, writing and conversation) at a variety of levels (such as beginning, intermediate and advanced). Some also offer “English for special purposes” classes, which focus on English as used in specific subject matter areas such as business, science, medicine or engineering. In general, English as a Second Language (ESL) courses aim to prepare individuals for real-life experience in American laboratories, workplaces, classrooms and communities. These programs may also organize events and activities such as conversation partners and trips and may be able to provide tutors for individualized instruction. Below are some examples of ESL courses in your area. Please search online for more options.
Schools
- English Language Institute: University of California, San Diego Extension provides English language courses for a fee.
- English Language Centers: EC San Diego offers classes year-round.
- San Diego Miramar College: San Diego Miramar College offers English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes.
Additional Resources
American English — Offered by Scripps Research
Scripps Research and California State University, San Marcos offer a mutual training opportunity to develop oral and written communication skills in American English. Graduate students in speech language pathology from California State University, San Marcos, under the direct supervision of department faculty, provide speech language services to graduate students and research associates. For information, refer here.
Scripps Research Library has a resource page on ESL under "Subject Guides" on the library webpage.
Here is a sample of some available resources:
- American Accent Training, book and CDs
- Instant Immersion English, CDs and DVDs
- Writing better English
- Compelling conversations: questions and quotations on timeless topics
Toastmasters International — Scripps Outstanding Speakers (SOS) Toastmasters is a group of people devoted to the improvement of public speaking. Toastmasters can be an excellent way to improve English and to develop confidence when public speaking. The group meets weekly on campus. For more information, please visit their website.
EL Sol Resource Center, Jupiter offers many free English classes (English, Conversational English and Computer Skills). Classes provide an introduction to American culture, healthcare and libraries along with opportunities to socialize, volunteer and garden.
Palm Beach County Adult Education Center offers classes year-round for adults, including English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).
Palm Beach State College, Palm Beach Gardens Campus offers classes for academic purposes and classes through continuing education.
Scripps Research Library has a resource page on ESL under "Subject Guides" on the library webpage.
Here is a sample of some available resources:
- American Accent Training, book and CDs
- Instant Immersion English, CDs and DVDs
- Writing better English
- Compelling conversations: questions and quotations on timeless topics
Toastmasters International is an organization devotede to the improvement of public speaking. Toastmasters can be an excellent way to improve English and to develop confidence when public speaking. The group meets regularly and all are welcome. For more information, please visit their website.
Informal ESL conversation groups can provide helpful opportunities to discuss topics of mutual interest in a comfortable setting. If you are interested in forming a conversation group within Scripps Research, post an inquiry on the listserv "classifieds-fl". You can join the listserv by visiting the mailing list website.