American Pronunciation Level 1

This is a 33-hour class designed for ESL students to introduce them to patterns and concepts of American Pronunciation to help students speak English clearly and accurately.  These concepts and patterns are practiced in a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere to empower non-native speakers of the American Language to understand how the language works, and how to work the language.  The goal is to create confidence and direction with immediate and recognizable results.  Rhythm, linking, stress, intonation, and sequencing are presented along with the clarification of the vowels and consonants of the language.  Easy patterns of words – words of one stress, one syllable, one vowel – are presented as a learning tool used to give quicker access and certainty in everyday speaking, listening, writing and basic communication.  Poems, proverbs, idioms, linked units of words in common use, national songs, historical speeches, and a simple book of stories along with repeat drills are an important part of the process of sounding out American Pronunciation.  PRE-REQUISITES:  This course is intended for ESL students at all levels beyond the ESL Beginner I level.  TUITION:  $155.00.

American Pronunciation Level 2

This is a 33-hour class designed for ESL students to continue to study patterns and concepts of American Pronunciation at a second level to further help students understand and communicate English clearly and accurately.  Concepts and patterns are practiced in a relaxed series of guided lessons to enable non-native speakers of the American Language to understand how the language works, and how to work the language to get correct and repeatable results.  Level 2 will build on lessons learned in Level 1 and will concentrate more on stress, use of the schwa, rhythm, and intonation.  Level 2 will provide more exercises in building vocabulary, putting multiple syllable words into the correct stress patterns, speaking the language in a relaxed, rhythmic pattern, listening skills, being able to repeat what is heard, recognizing and using idioms, using a dictionary and choosing the correct one for each level of learning, and recognizing individual problem areas that will then be addressed in target lessons.  Class will use common phrases, idiomatic words and expressions, proverbs, simple songs, poems, historical material, and stories to practice and promote the American experience then and now.  We read and discuss what is read.  Each student is responsible for bringing questions about American English, history and culture to class in addition to new words and idioms heard during the week.  Students will share their adventure in learning the language and culture with others.  PRE-REQUISITES:  AL 499 Patterns of American Pronunciation-Level 1.  TUITION:  $155.00.

 Please register for classes in person at the Ciarco Learning Center 355 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ.  The Center is open from 8:30AM to 9:00PM Monday through Thursday and from 8:30AM to 5:00PM on Friday.