ESL (English as a Second Language)
International and other students admitted to Lasell College who require English as a Second Language (ESL) support will be assessed for appropriate placement based on TOEFL scores, individual conferences and/or the English placement exam into Level 1 or Level 2. Each level places the students into a supportive structure with special attention to the individual student’s level of language acquisition (see Course Descriptions), structured ESL tutoring and support for transition to the American culture and American system of higher education.
Structured ESL Tutoring:
Students will be assigned to the Academic Achievement Center (AAC) during specific times when an ESL specialist, Conversation Partners, Communication Tutors and/or other tutors are available to provide individualized attention to language acquisition needs. Students can elect to use the ACC more than the structured three-hour time block.
Support for Students’ Transitions to the American Culture and Lasell College:
In order to ensure that all students in the program have easy access to an academic advisor, follow the appropriate course sequences and make best use of available services, students will be assigned to an academic advisor in the Academic Advising Center for the first year. The advisor will monitor students’ progress and address needs as they arise while helping new students learn to navigate resources at Lasell College.
Since all new students at Lasell College enroll in First Year Seminar, FYS 103, during their first semester, new students in the ESL program select a special section of FYS entitled, American Culture: Myths & Realities, to help make a smooth transition into the Lasell College community as well as the American culture and history. This is accomplished through engaging activities involving reading, discussion, working on team projects, in-class activities, and other explorations of the myths and realities of American culture. This seminar-based course will take an historical approach to how the American culture and the United States have been portrayed in popular domestic and international media throughout the past century. In particular, students will investigate the continuities and changes in these representations through multiple perspectives, including each others. Through a multi-disciplinary approach students will reach a better understanding of myths and realities of American culture in the past and the present.
