http://www.uwm.edu/Dept/ESL/ (PC Press Internet CD, 03/1996)
ABOUT OUR PROGRAM
The Intensive English Program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is an academically oriented language program which each semester serves an average of 100 students representing more than 30 countries and 20 different languages. These students are taking English for personal enrichment or intend to continue their education at an English speaking institution.
All students are given a set of language assessment exams and then placed in groups with similar English ability but heterogeneous language and cultural backgrounds. The program consists of four focused skill areas or modules. Each student takes four hours of instruction daily, Monday through Friday. The focus of these four hours will vary according to the skill area in which the student is placed. The first three modules focus on listening comprehension, reading and vocabulary development, and the fundamentals of writing and word processing. Students in the advanced module synthesize all of the skills for in-depth practice with English. They often have discussions with invited speakers and explore community resources through field trips.
Students are tested every four weeks and reassigned to a higher module as indicated by their test scores or to the same module if more practice is needed. Students may enter the program at the beginning and at the midterm point of each semester. There are 5 eight-week sessions per year: two consecutive sessions in Fall and Spring and one in Summer.
Students in the advanced levels of the Intensive English Program may begin their academic program through consultation with the director of the ESL program as their TOEFL scores approach the minimum university requirement. UWM offers conditional admission to academically qualified students who have not yet obtained the required TOEFL score. During the last weeks of each semester, a TOEFL preparation workshop is conducted. An Institutional TOEFL is offered at the end of every semester.
LANGUAGE RESOURCE CENTER
In addition to classroom instruction, our students make use of the Language Resource Center, which has three Macintosh computer classrooms as well as traditional language laboratory equipment. The LRC is used with instructor assistance during class hours and is also available for individual student use before and after scheduled class hours.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Outside of class time there is a regular schedule of organized extracurricular activities which take place in Milwaukee and the surrounding area. We also provide an opportunity for our students to learn about American culture by joining with American university students in organized discussion group meetings, or by participating in a Language Partner Program. There is also a weekly Student Journal Exchange for students who wish to communicate with American students through writing.
LOCATION
The University is located in a quiet residential section of the city near Lake Michigan. Public transportation is readily available to all parts of the city, as well as to Chicago and other locations in Wisconsin.
Thank you for taking the time to look over this information on the Intensive English Program at UW-Milwaukee. We look forward to welcoming new students to Milwaukee and would be happy to provide you with our brochure and application form.