Required Courses

Methods and Techniques for Teaching ELLs (English Language Learners)

In this course, participants learn the basics of student-centered teaching and how to plan lessons that integrate contextualized grammar instruction with the teaching of vocabulary and the four language skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing) as well as error correction and classroom management. The emphasis is on communicative learning. Participants are required to observe at least three hours of ESL classes and teach an ESL/EFL class for a minimum of 15 hours during the semester. Participants must find their own teaching positions; see this page, call 212.229.5372, or email elsc@newschool.edu for a list of possible teaching sites.  

Offered: Fall/Spring

Cost: $1,430 (Non-credit) / 4 credits (Degree)

English Grammar for ESL Teachers

While this course focuses on several key components of English grammar, at the same time it provides hands-on, practical training for future teachers. Students learn a standard approach to researching a grammar structure, including such elements as form, meaning, use, appropriate context, pronunciation focus, and authentic, enjoyable use-based activities. By the end of this course, students will have interiorized a pedagogical method that enables them to research any grammar structure assigned to them, and to build interesting and communicative lessons around it.

Offered: Fall/Summer 

Cost: $1,430 (Non-credit) / 3 credits (Degree)

Teaching the Sound System of English

In this course, participants learn how the sounds of English are produced and how to describe them to English language learners in order to diagnose pronunciation difficulties and increase intelligibility. Students will learn how to create various types of classroom activities designed to help English language learners practice English sounds within a communicative framework.

Offered: Spring/Summer 

Cost: $530 (Non-credit) / 1 credit (Degree)

Assessment in the Language Classroom

A vital part of teaching ESL/EFL is developing and implementing valid tools to assess the levels, needs, goals and progress of one’s students. In this course participants examine traditional forms of testing and learn to design alternative forms of assessment. Activities include exploring, designing and implementing a variety of assessment tools and tasks. Finally, participants look at the relationships between assessment, testing, teaching and learning. Prerequisite: Methods and Techniques for Teaching ELLs, NELT 0411 or some classroom experience.

Offered: Fall/Summer 

Cost: $530 (Non-credit) / 1 credit (Degree)

ESL Teaching Practicum

This course consists of two components: 15 hours of volunteer teaching (cumulative over the course of the semester) and a weekly seminar class with other student teachers. Students choose a location for their teaching from the many suggested off-site locations throughout the metropolitan area. This course will integrate previous CTE coursework with their current teaching practice. Students will explore ways to assess and improve teaching and learning through reading, writing, discussion, reflection and teaching. 

Prerequisites: Methods and Techniques for Teaching English Language Learners and English Grammar for ESL Teachers.

Offered: Fall/Spring 

Cost: $910 (Non-credit) / 3 credits (Degree)