ESL Highlights and Fees

2008 Schedule
Session I: June 29– July 26
Session II: July 27– August 21
Session III: August 21– August 29

Sessions I & II
Mornings and Afternoons

During Sessions I and II, mornings and early afternoons at the English as a Second Language Institute include a block of language instruction that incorporates listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Because students are grouped in “whole language” blocks according to their linguistic ability, the teacher is able to reinforce the lessons of the day across all skill areas. For example, lessons in written grammar are reinforced by the same teacher who covers speaking and listening. Reinforcement throughout the day solidifies learning.

Lower and upper intermediate ESL students rotate through elective courses ranging from a class that focuses on publishing the Institute newspaper to a skit class that addresses pronunciation and elocution. Through participation in small group reading practice, students examine their own, as well as American, cultural habits and customs.

Advanced ESL students in the morning focus on the more complex aspects of language. Complicated concepts of grammar, when learned well, allow students to express themselves with increasing accuracy. Reading materials become increasingly challenging and oral expectations include clearer pronunciation and expanded vocabulary. To be successful in undertaking sophisticated secondary school and university studies, students must refine their ability to express ideas with clarity and accuracy.

To that end, most advanced ESL students in the afternoon of Session I take Expository Writing; in the afternoon of Session II, they take Writing About Literature.  Alternative courses listed under the College Prep Institute (coded “ESL friendly”) may also be considered.

Session III

A program of travel and adventure - submerged in English

(only for those students continuing on from Session II)

For those who will continue in the United States for full-year enrollment at Wyoming Seminary or at another boarding school, Session III provides an opportunity for learning in a totally different setting. Students depart from Sem’s campus and travel along with teachers and counselors through the New England states. This experiential learning week affords students a change of pace, along with the opportunity to discover new sites beyond the Wyoming Seminary campus. Students continue to develop their English language skills, but the learning shifts from reading and writing to the use of functional vocabulary as students respond to oral commands or speak (in English) among themselves as they explore new environs or complete group challenges.

For the four nights in Maine, students camp on a 400-acre peninsula on the coast. Along with expert camp leaders, they explore the pristine Maine wilderness, learn outdoor camping skills, prepare meals while sitting around a campfire and challenge themselves in new and exciting ways. Students from the big cities of Asia and Europe surprise themselves as they paddle a canoe in the Montsweag Bay, take morning hikes on mountain trails, conquer a high-ropes course, and explore Maine’s Atlantic coast on a guided afternoon oceanfront adventure. During these four nights and five days, the sense of adventure is exciting, but more important, the feeling of accomplishment is uplifting and builds confidence.

Students who are willing to stretch themselves – exploring new turf, fusing friendships, and penetrating their own perceived limits of English proficiency and physical dexterity -- find this a wonderfully fulfilling conclusion to a Summer filled with learning at Sem.

Session III enrollment is limited.Student must be continuing on from Session II.

The fees cover all expenses: transportation to and from Maine, lodging, meals, educational instruction and entertainment. Students should allow for personal expenses such as shopping and appropriate outdoor attire. Sturdy walking shoes are required.

Students may enroll in one, two or all three sessions. Most students combine all three sessions to form nine full weeks of intensive language study. Upon acceptance, either an enrollment deposit or full payment will be required.

Miscellaneous expenses incurred by ESL boarding students:

• Bed linens $90.00 (students may bring their own linens from home or purchase school linens at this fee)
• Medical Insurance $150.00 ( F-1 student visa holders only)
• Dorm Room Key Deposit $100.00 (refundable to student if key is returned at end of session)

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