Intensive Reading and Writing I:  The Essay

• Read classic short fiction and non-fiction literature, write summaries and essays, and learn to support an argument in writing using appropriate transitions and details. 

Intensive Reading and Writing II:  Research and Citation

• Read academic articles and other non-fiction literature and write a short research paper related to the readings.  Learn to develop and support a thesis and use citations.

Listening and Speaking I

• Build listening comprehension, fluency, vocabulary development and sociolinguistic competencies.  Students view short videos of speakers and other high-interest content.

Listening and Speaking II

• Build listening comprehension, fluency, vocabulary development and sociolinguistic competencies. Students view video lectures, interviews, and other advanced-level content.

American Cinema

• Get extra listening comprehension practice and an in-depth look at aspects of American culture.  Students will write and revise film critiques as a way to practice editing skills in writing.  They will also participate in discussions of the films through online discussion boards and in class discussions.

Presentation and Pronunciation Skills I and II

• Gain necessary skills to deliver a formal presentation. Learn best practices in PowerPoint design, team building discussions, pronunciation, and improved fluency.

Discover Philadelphia

• Travel on walking tours throughout Philadelphia to see the amazing murals that fill public spaces and wander through the various free or low-cost art galleries. Note: This class meets off campus and may require public transportation to various sites.

Students attending the Business Track will partaicipate in the following business classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, students will take Listening & Speaking and Integrated Reading & Writing along with the Academic Track.  

Business English

Students will learn American business English by reading business news items & case studies, learning presentations skills, writing formal and informal business correspondence, and practicing negotiation skills.

Business Culture & Guest Speakers

This course will focus on the language and culture of American business.  Students will engage with guest speakers to learn about and prepare for visits to local businesses and gain an understanding of the culture of American businesses.   A highlight of this course is the "business etiquette" lunch, which will bring students together with local business people over a formal business lunch where students will learn the etiquette of American business meals while engaging in conversations with local business people.

Philadelphia Business Visit

Students will visit local business, get tours of the sites, and have opportunities to engage with representatives of the company.  A combination of small businesses owned by local entrepreneurs and large corporations will be included in the visits so students can learn about the range of business practices.