The English as a Second Language (ESL) program is
designed for students who come from a country where English is not their first language. The course structure
of ESL is directed towards making students who are not proficient and comfortable with English to speak,
write and read this language. Students may undertake the ESL program for a number of reasons such as,
successful completion of high school or for taking admission in a Graduation school.
Armbrae Academy is a renowned school located in Halifax that offers ESL program to students in grades eight
to 12. This school was founded as the Halifax Ladies' College in 1887, and was incorporated by the Act of the
Nova Scotia Legislature. Armbrae Academy is a non-profit organization and enrolls students of diverse
nationalities, cast and creed. International students are also welcome to enroll in this college. In order to
make these international students comfortable with the English language, Armbrae Academy offers after-school
ESL classes.
The ESL program offered by Armbrae Academy is generally three weeks and is offered in an environment that is
conducive to learning. In order to ensure that each child gets the required attention from the teachers, the
Armbrae ESL program class size is limited to 14 students. An effective course structure along with proper
teaching methodology ensures that thorough knowledge about English is imparted to the students.
The Armbrae ESL program emphasizes on vocabulary development and communication skills of a student. This
program is taught and created by trained ESL professionals who possess expertise in their domain. Along with
regular classroom sessions, short excursions and guest lecturers are also featured in the Armbrae ESL
program. The exposure gained in this program ensures that the students are comfortable using English in
different situations.
For students who are in grades eight to 10, emphasis is given on the basics the English language. The focus
shifts to critical thinking, presentation skills and academic subject matter in grades 11 to 12. The ESL
program offered by Armbrae Academy gives students an all-round insight into the different aspects of the
English language.
Some of the topics covered in the ESL course include grammar, spelling, punctuation, vocabulary, use of
idioms and the different parts of speech. The progress of students is regularly tracked and appropriate
measures are taken, if required. A student centered approach followed by Armbrae Academy ensures that
irrespective of their country of origin, students are able to grasp the concepts easily.
The benefit of attending an ESL program extends beyond academic and employment opportunities. Students are
able to improve their linguistic skills, which helps them in their social life as well. Proper command over
the language ensures that international students are able to interact freely with their peers as well as
their teachers. This healthy interaction facilitates an effective flow of information in the classroom. The
fact that students learn basic details of English in this course makes it easier for them to comprehend the
complexities that might arise due to grammar or style of writing. •