Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Post-Degree Certificate Program 2013/14 Application Information

Transcription

1 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Post-Degree Certificate Program 2013/14 Application Information

2 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information TABLE OF CONTENTS Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages 2 - Why Choose UofT for TESOL? 2 - Students Comments 3 Admission 4 - Admission Criteria 4 - Application Procedures 4 - Deadlines 5 - English Facility Requirements 5 - Transfer Credits 7 Fees 7 Financial Assistance 7 Program Overview 8 - Required Courses 8 - Course Texts 8 - Course Descriptions 8 Frequently Asked Questions 10 TESL Ontario & TESL Canada TESOL Calendar 12 Woodsworth College Hours of Operation Professional & International Programs Monday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (until 4:30 p.m. July 1 to Labour Day) Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Office of the Registrar Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (until 4:30 p.m. July 1 to Labour Day) Tuesday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (until 5:30 p.m. July 1 to Labour Day) Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Professional & International Programs Woodsworth College, University of Toronto 119 St. George Street, 3rd floor* Toronto, Ontario. M5S 1A9 [email protected] Website: * If you are planning on visiting our offices or attending one of our events and have any accessibility requirements please inform us and we will do our best to make appropriate arrangements. 1

3 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information CERTIFICATE IN TEACHING ENGLISH TO SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES Since 1972, the University of Toronto has offered specialized academic and professional preparation to individuals interested in teaching English to second language learners, specifically adults. The certificate program changed its name from TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) to TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) in The new name more accurately reflects the fact that the program considers both Teaching English as a Second Language (e.g., to recent immigrants to Canada) and Teaching English as a Foreign Language (e.g., to non-english speakers abroad). Why Choose UofT for TESOL Academic Excellence: The University of Toronto's TESOL Certificate has a reputation for academic excellence and is a leader in the field of TESOL education. Graduate Employability: Our graduates are highly competitive securing employment in a variety of areas including teaching Adult ESL locally with boards of education, colleges, universities and private language schools and teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in private and public educational institutions abroad. In addition, students have access to a number of services to assist them in finding work, including listings of jobs at the U of T Career Centre and two annual TESOL employment information sessions. See the FAQ section of this booklet for details. Success after graduation: A recent survey of our graduates from the last ten years showed that 64% were working in the ESL field and 73% had found work within a year of completing the program. Theory & Practice: The program provides a sound theoretical basis for second language learning and teaching, drawing on the most current research in linguistics, second language acquisition, and teaching methodology. This is complemented by actual classroom practice that we arrange to help students develop the skills necessary for successful learning and teaching. Recognized Certificate: This was one of the first programs approved by TESL Ontario as a recognized training program for their Certificate for Adult ESL Instructors in Ontario. Also, the TESOL training program at this institution is recognized by TESL Canada (Professional Certificate Standard Two). Full-time or Part-time Study: Students admitted to the program full-time may complete it in eight months. Four or more courses per term is considered full-time study, and three or less courses per term is a part-time load. (In the summer session, four courses or more is considered full-time, less than four is part-time.) ESL Part 1 and 2 Additional Qualifications: Courses in this TESOL program can be counted towards the Ontario College of Teaches Part 1 and 2 ESL additional qualifications. 2 W o o d s w o r t h C o l l e g e U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o

4 Dynamic Classroom Environment: The program attracts a wide variety of individuals. Some are interested in working in Canada teaching new Canadians or international students. Others are interested in travel and working abroad. Still other graduates go on to more advanced studies in the field of second language learning. Students Comments My certificate from the University of Toronto is a very valuable asset. After the course, I " was immediately employed and have enjoyed teaching in the field of ESL ever since. The theoretical background, coupled with the practical teaching tools I learned in the Woodsworth courses, has helped me immensely in the classroom and has given me the confidence to pursue a Master's degree in English Language Teaching. " A. Joseph ESL Instructor, English School of Canada Toronto The Woodsworth TESOL program " offers a real-world perspective. The instructors relate sound and practical knowledge that is truly useful in today s industry. Whether you are thinking about going abroad or making a career of teaching English in Canada, this is the right program. The depth and scope of the material taught is what separates the Woodsworth TESOL program from the others. " Ian Wigglesworth English Language Program School of Continuing Studies, Toronto " In many ways, beyond teaching, the TESL skills have proven valuable especially cross-cultural communication, the respect for adult learning and learners, and simple communication. " K. Buckenham Acting Director, Pietermaritzburg Agency for Christian Social Awareness Pietermaritzburg, South Africa 3

5 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information ADMISSION Admission Criteria 1. A minimum of a bachelor s degree with an acceptable average. For applicants with a bachelor s degree from overseas, the degree must be equivalent to a 3-year Canadian bachelor s degree. 2. English facility requirements, where applicable (see English Facility Requirements below). 3. Personal suitability for the program. Note: This is a limited enrolment program. Admission to the TESOL Certificate program is competitive and meeting the minimum academic requirement does not guarantee admission. Admission requirements are subject to change without notice. Application Procedures A complete application consists of: An application submitted online ( The $90.00 application fee. Completed questions*. You may prepare your answers in advance of filling out your online application. The questions you'll be asked to respond to are included below. A résumé detailing your employment history (including teaching experience, names of employers, job titles and positions). If required, acceptable proof of English facility and/or proof of name change. Transcripts Transcripts usually take a minimum of three weeks to be received. If your transcripts have not arrived by the application deadline, your file will not be assessed. It is your responsibility to ensure that all required documents are received by the appropriate deadline. a) Graduates from the University of Toronto: Students who graduated prior to 1998 must request an official transcript from the Transcript Centre at NOTE: Students who graduated from U of T in 1998 and beyond do not need to request a transcript, provided they can view their record on ROSI. b) Graduates of another North American University: An official transcript of your most recent postsecondary degree must be forwarded to Woodsworth College directly from the issuing institution. c) Graduates of non-north American institutions: An official transcript of all completed postsecondary degrees (graduate and undergraduate), along with all diploma/graduation certificates, must be forwarded to Woodsworth College directly from the issuing institution(s). If the original transcript is not in English, applicants must submit an English translation in addition to all original documents. Students who are not able to obtain their transcript(s) directly from the issuing institution(s) should contact the Professional & International Programs office. 4 W o o d s w o r t h C o l l e g e U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o

6 *Questions to be answered in the online application: a. Describe any work/life experiences you feel will contribute to your success in this program and as an instructor in this field? (Maximum 150 words) b. TESOL instructors work, in Canada, with adults (18-80 years) who are immigrants (permanent residents) or international students (visitors to Canada). Many TESOL instructors teach abroad, in countries where English is not the dominant language. Which group of English language learners interests you the most and why? (Maximum 50 words) c. What excites you about working in this field? How does this fit into your overall career goals? (75 words) d. What are the challenges you expect an English language instructor to face? (Maximum 75 words) e. Describe a situation at school or in the workplace where you encountered an interpersonal conflict or difficult situation, and how did you deal with it? (Maximum 150 words) f. How would you go about creating a welcome and supportive learning environment in an ESL classroom? (Maximum 75 words) The complete application must be submitted online, at Please have official transcripts forwarded to: Professional & International Programs Woodsworth College, University of Toronto 119 St. George Street Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A9 All documents must be submitted before the application deadlines. Deadlines: Summer Session (begins mid-may) April 1, 2013 Fall/Winter Session (begins early September) July 1, 2013 Winter Session - space permitting (begins January 2013) November 1, 2013 Note: Late applications will be accepted space permitting. English Facility Requirements In addition to satisfying the academic requirements, candidates will be required to present proof of English facility if their mother tongue is not English and they have not: a) Satisfactorily completed a minimum three-year Bachelor s degree or a graduate degree with English as the language of instruction at a university in Canada. OR b) Satisfactorily completed a minimum three-year Bachelor s degree or a graduate degree in an English language school system* at a university outside Canada. OR 5

7 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information c) Satisfactorily completed grades 6-12 in Canada (each grade completed in one full school year), including minimum English Grade 12 score of at least 70%. *An English language school system is one that is located in a country where English is the official language for primary, secondary and tertiary levels of education, as well as for government and commerce, and where all instruction is in English, except for language courses. Note: Applicants whose first language is not English and who have university degrees from universities that are not in English-speaking school systems are required to submit English language proficiency scores. Proof of English facility is demonstrated by achieving acceptable scores in one of the following four options* (scores are valid for 2 years after the test date): (1) Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) If you have NOT already completed the Test of Spoken English (TSE) you must submit scores for the TOEFL ibt. TOEFL ibt: Minimum requirement is a total score of 103, with at least 24 in Reading, 24 in listening, 27 in speaking and 28 in Writing. If you have already completed the Test of Spoken English (TSE) within the past two years and received a minimum score of 55, you must submit scores for the computer-based test along with your TSE score: Computer-based Test: Minimum requirement is a total score of 250 on the TOEFL, a score of at least 5.5 on the Test of Written English (TWE), and a score of at least 55 on the Test of Spoken English (TSE). The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Toronto is You must list this code correctly, or we will not receive your result. The TOEFL/TWE/TSE Bulletins and Registration Form may be obtained from TOEFL/TSE Services, P.O. Box 6151, Princeton, NJ USA. Telephone: (toll-free) or Fax: [email protected]. Website: (2) International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Version The minimum requirement is an overall band of 7.5, an oral score of 8, with no band score below 7. For information about this test, contact the IELTS Office, University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate, 1 Hills Road, Cambridge, United Kingdom CB1 2EU. Telephone: (1223) Fax (1223) Website: (3) Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) The minimum requirement is an overall score of 85, with a score of at least 87 in composition, and no part score below 80. Candidates must also achieve at least 4 in speaking, MELAB Test Contact information: Toronto MELAB Centre 45 Willcocks St. Room 139 Toronto, Ontario M5S 1C7 [email protected] Telephone: (416) Web site: 6 W o o d s w o r t h C o l l e g e U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o

8 (4) Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST) The minimum requirement is a score of at least 5 in listening, reading and writing, and 5 in speaking. CANTEST Contact information: * Prospective students with disabilities that prevent them from taking language facility testing in regular conditions should contact the respective testing centers to inquire about their policies on special accommodations for students with disabilities. It is the student s responsibility to inquire about the policies of the testing institutions. Transfer Credit If you have taken courses similar to those offered in the program, you may request a transfer credit. Indicate which course you wish assessed on the application form. Course descriptions must be provided. Please note that no more than one half transfer credit per student will be granted (0.5 credit). You may contact our office at if you require further information. FEES The most current information on tuition fees is available from the University of Toronto Student Accounts website: (click on the appropriate session, then Fee & Refund Schedules, then Woodsworth College - Certificate & Diploma Programs ). Domestic Students (Canadian Residents) The cost of taking one course (0.5 full course credit) during the Fall/Winter Session was $ Each additional course in the same session cost $ The total cost of the program if completed in 8 months (September to May) was $ Tuition fees do not include books, and are subject to change from year to year. International Students The cost of taking one course (0.5 full course credit) during the Fall/Winter Session was $3, Each additional course in the same session cost $2, The total cost of the program if completed in 8 months was $24, Tuition fees do not include books, and are subject to change from year to year. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Part-time and full-time students who are Ontario residents are eligible to apply for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). Information is available from Enrolment Services, 172 St. George Street; ; In addition to OSAP, a limited number of bursaries and scholarships are available to students who need financial assistance or who qualify for them on the basis of academic merit. Information on bursaries can be obtained from the Office of the Registrar at A list of scholarships, including requirements, is published in the Certificate Programs Calendar. 7

9 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information PROGRAM OVERVIEW Academic Coordinator: Carolyn L. Coté BA (Toronto), CTESL (Toronto), M.Ed. (University of Toronto) The TESOL Certificate Program consists of 8 semester-length courses. This will involve over 300 lecture hours, with 20 hours of practice teaching and 30 hours of observing. During the Fall and Winter terms, courses are offered in the morning, afternoon and evening. The Certificate must be completed within six years of admission. Required Courses Eight semester-length courses (4 full credits) LIN200H1 Introduction to Language TSL560H1 TESOL Methodology 1 TSL561H1 Theoretical Issues in Second Language Teaching and Learning TSL562H1 Introduction to the Practicum TSL563H1 Pedagogical Grammar TSL564H1 TESOL Methodology 2 TSL565H1 Planning ESOL Courses TSL566H1 TESOL Practicum Woodsworth College reserves the right to change course offerings. Course Texts Textbooks and reading packages for all courses can be purchased at the University of Toronto bookstore, located at 214 College Street (corner of College and St. George). Website: Course Descriptions The following descriptions represent the information available at the time of publication When considering prerequisites, co-requisites and exclusions, note that the comma (,) the semi-colon (;) the ampersand (&) or the plus sign (+) mean AND; the solidus symbol (/) means OR. It is the responsibility of each student to ensure they meet the prerequisites for courses where applicable prior to registering. LIN200H1 Introduction to Language A general-interest course on language. Possible topics include: the structure of language; how language changes over time, the social and psychological aspects of language, language and culture, the origin of language, writing systems, and language acquisition. Exclusion: LIN100Y LIN200H1 is a University of Toronto degree credit course and may be transferable to a degree program. 8 W o o d s w o r t h C o l l e g e U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o

10 TSL560H1 TESOL Methodology 1 Taking a skills-based approach to language learning and teaching, the four language skills (listening, speaking [including pronunciation], reading and writing) are studied in terms of what both teachers and learners need to know. We start with how to approach the absolute beginner class, continue through all the skills, and end with the identification of several curricular models, focusing most particularly on an integrated-skills model. TSL561H1 Theoretical Issues in Second Language Teaching and Learning This course examines current theoretical research that has bearing on how adults learn English as a new language. We explore the nature of language, of language learning, and of language teaching; we also define the concept of communicative competence. After comparing first and second language acquisition and different theories of second language acquisition, we focus on the cognitive and socio-cultural factors that most affect adult language learners and the resultant implications for the classroom. TSL562H1 Introduction to the Practicum This introductory course exposes students to ESOL learners and actual classrooms and provides an opportunity to both practice and begin teaching. Lectures and workshops provide a forum to discuss student expectations, activity design and socio-cultural issues. Students should expect to spend six to twelve hours in the field. Graded on an Honours/Pass/Fail basis. TSL563H1 Pedagogical Grammar This course will outline the steps involved in teaching grammar: presentation, isolation, explanation, focused practice, and communicative practice. It will highlight differences in teaching written versus spoken grammar. The main focus is, however, on the pedagogically most suitable explanation of grammar points to second language learners of English. Key areas in the verb system, the noun system, and sentence structure will be discussed to show how they can be explained through meaning, transformation, structure, function, or discourse. Since the grammar points included cover the range from the elementary level to the advanced level of proficiency, ordering teaching points and the curriculum design will also be discussed. Recommended Preparation: Students enrolling in this course will be expected to be proficient in various English grammar rules and terminology. TSL564H1 TESOL Methodology 2 This course emphasizes the critical examination and development of classroom materials and tasks in both local and international settings. The course reinforces the integration of skills in a theme-content-task-based approach, and looks at materials (including technologies) and tasks appropriate for early, mid and advanced learners as well as for particularly challenging multi-level or literacy classes. Both authentic and textbook materials are critiqued with an eye to adapting them to specific classroom settings. In addition, we examine the needs of different language learning contexts: general ESL (Canadian Language Benchmarks), academic English, English for specific purposes, English for standardized test preparation, and English as a foreign language. Prerequisite: TSL560H1 9

11 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information TSL565H1 Planning ESOL Courses This course takes a broader view of to teaching ESOL. We start by exploring different curricular models and approaches (both historic and contemporary) and move into syllabus planning for different contexts such as programs for immigrants and refugees, programs for international students, and EFL programs. From syllabus planning, we shift to the principles of lesson planning. We examine the role of needs analyses and student input in planning syllabi and lessons. Finally, we review approaches to error correction, feedback, assessment and testing and the implications of these for classroom teaching. TSL566H1 TESOL Practicum Students complete a supervised practice teaching and classroom observation with a teacher in the Adult ESL Program at the Toronto Catholic District School Board. In-class workshops provide an opportunity to explore classroom management issues. Panel discussions and lectures help start you on your job search. Students can expect to spend eighty percent of their time in the field. Graded on an Honours/Pass/Fail basis. NOTE: All students enrolled in the Practicum must complete a criminal background check at least 6 8 weeks before the start of the course. Prerequisite: TSL560H1 and TSL562H1 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q: How long will it take to complete the program? A: The program can be completed in 8 months if you enroll successfully in 4 courses per term. Many students complete the program in 8 months, however, since space in individual courses is limited, completion in 8 months cannot be guaranteed. Q: Can I do the program part time? A: Yes! If you study part time (less than 4 courses per term) you could complete the program in months. You have up to 6 years (from date of admission) to complete the certificate. Q: When are the classes? A: Courses are offered during the afternoon and evening. Each course has a class of at least 3 hours once per week in the fall and winter term and twice per week in the summer session. It is possible to complete the certificate taking only night classes (but it could take longer than eight months, and you might have to do your practice teaching during the day). Q: What does the program consist of? A: You will be taking 8 half credit courses to end up with 4 full credits. The program consists of over 300 lecture hours with 20 hours of practice teaching and 30 hours of observing. Q: Do we have to arrange for the practicum placement or will UofT? A: The TESOL program arranges the practicum placements. There are evening placements available during the Fall/Winter session but placements in the Summer session are 10 W o o d s w o r t h C o l l e g e U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o

12 during the day only. Alternatively, students may choose to make their own placement arrangements pending approval by the course instructor. Q: Is there job placement after the program? A: We have several services available to assist graduates of the TESOL program in finding work. Students are encouraged to use the U of T Career Centre, which has hundreds of job listings and resources. Our office also holds two career information events every year (international and domestic) which includes potential employers. Q: Where am I able to work after I graduate? A: Graduates of our program are qualified to teach adults English both in Canada and abroad. Teaching in Canada - Both the provincial and federal professional associations, TESL Ontario and TESL Canada, certify our program. For graduates planning to work in Canada you are able to teach in: Private language schools, e.g., English School of Canada, Global Language, Language Workshop, PLI and KIOSK. Pay: typically $12-$30/contract hour and some schools have benefits. LINC programs for newcomers to Canada, based in community centres, colleges, and public or separate schools. Classes are task-based and focus on practical English skills and settlement needs. Student proficiency ranges from beginner to intermediate. Pay: varies, but the maximum tends to be around $30/contract hour, with some benefits. ESL programs at Colleges, e.g., George Brown, Humber, Centennial and Seneca. The teaching focus is usually grammar, communicative grammar, integrated language skills for general or academic English, LINC, specialty classes in pronunciation, writing, technical writing, some job search skills, and "upgrading". Pay: $20- $40/contract hour - no benefits. Universities, e.g., University of Toronto, York University and Ryerson. The teaching focus is on integrated skills in academic preparation and general English; also specialty classes in all skills, especially academic writing and technical writing, and ESP for professions & businesses. Pay: usually $40-$60/contract hour and sometimes with benefits. Continuing Education Centres and Community Centres rate of pay and type of works varies. Teaching Abroad - Job postings and information can be found on the following websites but there are many more! TESL Ontario: TESL Toronto: TESL Canada: TESOL Professional Development: 11

13 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Application Information TESL ONTARIO & TESL CANADA TESL Ontario is a non-profit organization serving the needs of teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL) and English Literacy Development (ELD). TESL Canada is a national organization dedicated to advancing communication and coordinating awareness of issues for those concerned with English as a second language and English skills development. Both of these organizations can be a useful professional resource for graduates of the U of T TESOL program. Please note that both TESL Ontario and TESL Canada may have additional requirements for certification. Students should check the following websites for detailed information. TESL Ontario Website: Phone: or TESL Canada: Website: [email protected] Phone: TESOL CALENDAR The Calendar will be available in June. It contains the rules and regulations of the University. If you are admitted to the Program, a calendar will be automatically sent to you. 12 W o o d s w o r t h C o l l e g e U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o

14 Professional & International Programs Woodsworth College, University of Toronto 119 St. George Street, 3rd floor Toronto, Ontario. M5S 1A9 Phone: Fax: Website: