English as a Second Language PLUS Program (ESL+)
The program
At Hiram College we believe that improving skill in a second language is an integral part of the general education requirement for all students. Because of this, Hiram offers the English as a Second Language Plus program (ESL+) to serve students whose first language is not English and whose TOEFL scores fall between 485 and 550 (CBT: 163-212; iBT: 57-79).
Unlike many U.S. colleges and universities that consider ESL courses to be remedial, Hiram recognizes them to be higher-level foreign language courses for non-native speakers and worthy of academic credit. Hiram students earn college credit toward a Bachelor of Arts degree for ESL courses as well as courses in other disciplines. ESL+ professors are highly qualified with advanced degrees in teaching English as a second language. Small classes, averaging five to seven students, offer individual attention and many opportunities for speaking English.
Course descriptions
The ability to communicate effectively is important, no matter what major you choose. Beginning with your first course, Hiram’s emphasis on writing across the curriculum will help you expand communication skills in more than one discipline. Depending on your level of English proficiency, each semester of the first year you will be placed in one or two ESL courses in addition to the colloquium course (fall semester) and the first-year seminar course (spring semester), both of which are required of all students for the Bachelor of Arts degree at Hiram College.
The ESL+ colloquium uses reading assignments, cultural excursions, class discussion, and written work to explore the great variety of experiences that make up contemporary life and culture in the U.S.
The ESL+ seminar continues an in-depth investigation of culture, literature, and history in the U.S. The seminar requires that students complete a full-length research paper, demonstrate proficiency in Western research methods and techniques, and improve oral and written expression in English.
Intermediate/Advanced English grammar (ESL+ 200 and ESL+ 300) are courses designed to enhance syntactic skills in English and build vocabulary while focusing on the American idiom. Language laboratory work is required.
Intermediate/Advanced English conversation and listening comprehension (ESL+ 201 and ESL+ 301) are courses that focus on practicing and developing oral and listening comprehension skills with a particular emphasis on the rhetorical aspects of academic English. Language laboratory work is required.
Practicums (ESL+ 205 and ESL+ 305) are courses offered during the three-week sessions of the academic year. Course content varies and is often structured to meet the special needs of students enrolled in a particular term. Business English, American pronunciation, and academic term paper research and writing are examples of courses offered.
Based on the level of English proficiency as determined by our ESL+ faculty, students may enroll in one of the several approved introductory-level courses in other departments at the College. The course is chosen on the basis of a student's interests and the academic advisor's guidance. No matter what courses are selected, even without transfer credit, Hiram’s ESL+ students can finish their Bachelor of Arts degree in four years without requiring summer courses.
Academic opportunities beyond the classroom
Because we realize that learning and practicing English occur most often outside the formal classroom, courses are supplemented with peer tutoring in an informal setting. This one-on-one instruction from students who are native speakers of English enhances speaking and understanding, learning about American culture, and making new friends.
Hiram prides itself on exceptional attention to and interest in its students. Faculty and staff of the first-year program, and the writing, science learning, and computer centers will support your academic and social transition to college and beyond. You will have 24-hour access to email and the internet through the College's network of wireless buildings. This network, through the OhioLINK consortium of schools, provides students with access to a resource collection equivalent to one of the ten largest research libraries in the U.S.
As mastery of English improves, ESL+ students may take advantage of other academic opportunities, including:
- study internationally in courses with a Hiram faculty member and fellow students;
- pursue an independent study or research project in a major;
- work on a career-related internship.
Student life
As an ESL+ student you will live in a residence hall with an American student. In addition, you may:
- participate in on-campus extra-curricular activities, including athletics, the arts, academic organizations, student government and special interest groups;
- hold an on-campus job;
- interact with an American host family;