English Learning Academy

English as a Second Language Program

The English Learning Academy (ELA) at Arkansas State University-Jonesboro has a dynamic and progressive English as a Second Language (ESL) program that actively serves students in obtaining English proficiency for undergraduate and graduate study.

The ESL program is comprehensive in design and structure, implementing a multi-pronged approach focusing on communicative language instruction. Classroom instruction, along with structured, practical activities, promotes and reinforces students’ fluency. Instruction is implemented through methods similar to those experienced in the university classroom.

The program consists of five levels plus a Foundations of English level for students with little background in English. Courses include instruction in the four skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Grammar and vocabulary instruction are systematically embedded throughout all the courses utilizing texts, abundant ancillary materials, activities, and student-centered instruction. The program interweaves all basic language skills to further emulate real-life language usage, as well as experiences students will have while matriculating in the university. Students enrolled in the program can expect to be engaged in learning that facilitates language acquisition and provides a solid foundation in skills necessary for successful study at the university level. These skills include language-based technology skills, note taking, critical thinking and analysis, preparing and delivering oral presentations, working in groups, and academic writing.

ESL Vision and Mission Statements

It is the vision of the ELA that all students completing the program will be linguistically, culturally and academically prepared to succeed in university courses taught in English.

To achieve this vision, the program seeks to develop students’ linguistic competency, cultural awareness, and critical thinking skills to enable them to experience academic success and to have positive intercultural experiences when enrolled in university-level courses.

Additional Program Information

The ELA offers college preparatory language courses to international students who wish to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies at A-State but do not meet the English language proficiency requirement for admission. Students who matriculate through the program and successfully complete Level 5 with the required ITEP score are eligible to enter undergraduate or graduate studies with no further need for language proficiency examinations, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the lnternational English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Students must complete all course work with a grade of B or higher for all ESL courses from Foundations of English through Level 5. In the final course, Level 5 students must maintain a B average to progress to undergraduate studies. All students who are candidates for graduate studies must maintain an A average in Level 4 and Level 5.

Detailed information and answers to questions about the English as a Second Language program can be obtained by e-mailing ELA@AState.edu or by telephone at +1 870-972-2329.