ABE/GED/ESL

ABE/GED/ESL

Overview of Program

These programs are intended for those 16 or older who are out of school but who have not completed high school. These programs include courses from first through eighth grade levels in reading, language and mathematics, as well as English as a Second Language and General Educational Development (GED) courses that prepare students to pass the GED test and receive a certificate.

Programs within the Department

· Adult Basic Education (ABE)— Enrollees may be in Basic Skills (0-5.9) or Pre-GED (6.0-8.9). These classes work on improving basic academic skills, such as reading, writing, and mathematics. The classes help students transition into GED classes.

· General Educational Development (GED)— The GED/Adult Basic Education department instructors will help those students in need of a high school equivalency to prepare for the General Educational Development (GED) test. Through this accomplishment, the student will achieve a goal of personal fulfillment, the ability to continue his/her education, or to obtain or advance in the workforce. Within the three levels of Basic Skills, Pre-GED, and GED, the curriculum will prepare the student in writing, math, and reading comprehension for literature, science, and social studies.

· English as a Second Language (ESL)— The ESL faculty members will help non-native speakers of English develop basic interpersonal communication skills by fostering an environment in which effective language learning takes place. Listening, speaking, reading, and writing are integrated in a communicative approach curriculum, providing students the opportunity to practice and improve their English language proficiency throughout the seven levels. The ESL department endeavors to assist students with the following level competencies:

Beginning: function in a very limited way in situations related to immediate needs; understand frequently used words in context and very simple phrases spoken slowly and with some repetition; communicate with great difficulty.

Intermediate: satisfy basic survival needs; participate in conversation in limited social situations; communicate with some hesitation, relying on description and concrete terms.

· Workforce Development/Public Assistance Coordination—This program works with adults who are receiving public assistance and need adult basic education services. These services include not only the ABE/GED/ESL classes, but also job skills training, and childcare and transportation reimbursements.