Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages

Professor Tim Reynolds

Roanoke College does not offer a major in this field.

Concentration in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESL)

The concentration in TESL serves the needs and interests of Roanoke College students who are interested in teaching English to speakers of other languages both in the United States and abroad.  Students may earn the concentration by completing six courses.

TESL 210                    Cross-Cultural Learning and Communication
TESL 246                    Reading and Principles of Second Language Acquisition
TESL 346                    Curriculum and Assessment for the ESL Teacher
LING/ENGL 320       Basic Linguistics
ENGL 321                  Advanced Grammar and Style
LANG 341                  Methods of Teaching Foreign Languages

In addition, students must complete 2 units of modern foreign language study in the same language. (Competency will be accepted based on College “Competency Standards”).

210 Cross Cultural Learning and Communication

 An examination the history, meanings, implications and applications of various ideologies and beliefs related to multiculturalism as they relate to teaching, learning and communication. (1)
Lecture: 3 hrs/wk.

246 Reading and Principles of Second Language Acquisition

Examines the processes involved in learning and using a second language, as well as how these processes differ from those involved in first language acquisition. The course addresses the five major areas of reading instruction (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and text comprehension) as they apply to English language learners. (1)
Lecture: 3 hrs/wk.
Prerequisite or co-requisite: TESL 210.

340 Field Experience in Reading Instruction and Diagnosis for English Language Learners

Examines the techniques which can be used by the classroom teacher in evaluating reading progress and discovering the needs of English language learners, with methods for meeting these needs through differentiation of instruction and remediation in the classroom. (1/2)
Lecture: 3 hrs/wk.
Prerequisite: TESL 246.  Passing score on Praxis I; application and approval by the Education Department.

346 Curriculum and Assessment for the ESL Teacher

Analysis of current curricular approaches and assessment trends in ESL instruction. The course provides opportunities for students to devise their own assessments and curricular projects. (1)
Lecture: 3hrs/wk.
Prerequisite or Co-requisite: TESL 210.