English as a Second Language

Northampton's English as a Second Language (ESL) classes can help you become more comfortable speaking English in your community and at work.

We offer non-credit ESL classes at three levels: beginning, intermediate and advanced. Reading, writing, listening, and speaking are taught together. Attention is paid to grammar as well as to contemporary conversational skills.

Here are the main skills taught at each level:

Beginning

• Introduce yourself
• Respond to simple yes/no questions
• Identify items you need to go shopping
• Describe medical information to make an appointment
• Give and follow simple instructions
• Ask for and respond to simple street directions

Intermediate

• Initiate greetings and introductions
• Provide more complex personal data in order to complete various forms
• Recognize and respond to common American nonverbal behaviors
• Read a map
• Describe emotions, express agreement and disagreement
• Arrange for repairs and service (household, automotive)
• Read warning labels, safety precautions, and routine medical instructions
• Read and complete common paperwork forms
• Communicate opinions on current issues
• Investigate local activities in the newspaper and internet

Advanced

• Express feelings of gratitude, concern, and sympathy orally and in writing
• Write a personal letter, message, or email
• Recognize body language and non-verbal gestures
• Practice inferential reading skills
• Read and interpret classified ads, special offers, and advertisements
• Complete job applications and work-related forms
• Participate in successful job search and interview techniques
• Investigate resources in the community and learn how to access these resources
• Explore American culture and customs
• Investigate steps toward citizenship

Go to our Sign Up page to learn how to start taking ESL classes at Northampton.