Intensive Program

Whether you study English to improve your academic success, achieve your career goals, or simply improve your life, the English Language Institute's course of study can help. Learn the essentials of grammar and writing; improve listening, speaking and pronunciation skills; enhance your vocabulary through reading; and prepare for the TOEFL test.

With the help of an advisor, students create a program of study by choosing from the courses listed below and from other courses that may be available. F-1 students must enroll in a minimum of 18 hours per week.

There are three levels in Pleasantville. Students will remain in a level until ready to move up. This may take more than one session of 7 weeks (6 weeks in the summer terms) to complete each level. Instructors target their lessons to student needs as their skills develop within each level. 

• 060 - Low Intermediate
• 070 - High Intermediate
• 080 - Advanced

See   Westchester Intensive English Flyer and the Direction to the Pleasantville Campus 2013-2014

Direction and the map of the Pleasantville campus

Course Offerings and Descriptions

Grammar and Writing

Students learn grammar in the context of their own writing and through controlled exercises from the textbook. Students learn how to correct their mistakes and improve their writing by editing and revising their papers. Advanced students prepare a short research paper.

Reading and Vocabulary

Students learn different reading strategies and skills to increase vocabulary and comprehension. Students read a variety of newspaper and magazine articles, novels and stories, and academic texts to learn how to apply these strategies and skills.

Oral Skills

Students learn to speak accurately and communicate clearly. They improve grammar, pronunciation, choice of vocabulary, and level of formality in spoken English. Students make presentations on a variety of subjects and learn appropriate body language as well as pacing.

Conversation and Listening

Students improve conversational fluency and listening comprehension. This class focuses on communicating ideas in English. Audio, video and reading materials are used for conversation topics and for developing listening skills

TOEFL Preparation

Students learn the formats of the new iBT (Internet-based test) exams. Students practice test-taking strategies, time management and guessing techniques using past exams and simulated exams. Students review English grammar and vocabulary. Students develop skills and strategies for writing the TOEFL essay, including decoding topics; developing and organizing ideas; preparing introductory paragraphs, unified support paragraphs, concluding paragraphs; selecting transitions; editing the essay; and sentence structure. Through weekly writing assignments, students will become more comfortable and confident working within the 30-minute time frame. Students also focus on developing the listening, speaking, reading, and note-taking skills needed to respond to integrated skills questions.

American Law and Culture

Students learn the analytical, speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills associated with American law and its impact on American culture. American Law and Culture uses a variety of electronic and print journalism to focus on current legal issues, constitutional issues, as well as the history of the American legal system. Through close analysis of readings and writings, students will be able to participate in college courses, law school courses, and non-academic discussions related to American law and culture.

English Skills Workshop-Understanding the News

Students improve conversational fluency and listening comprehension. This class focuses on communicating ideas in English. Audio, video and reading materials are used for conversation topics and for developing listening skills.

English Skills Workshop-Pronunciation

Students learn the basic techniques needed to produce correct sounds. Students are taught how to form consonant and vowel sounds. Individual and common pronunciation problems are addressed. Â The teacher will show each student how to make accurate sounds and will correct common pronunciation problems. Other students in the class will give feedback as well.

Program and Placement Test Dates

Class Schedule and Fees (fees are subject to change without notice)

For more information, Please  contact the English Language Institute at Westchester Campus.