Center for English Language Acquisition and Culture

BELA Program

The BELA program (Bridging English Language Acquisition) has language acquisition classes for both international ESL and Generation 1.5 students. Our courses are designed to increase the students’ linguistic and language acquisition skills in English in order to meet minimum college requirements for reading and composition. We also offer composition, fiction, and sociology classes that have a language acquisition focus.

Courses

  • EA032 Dynamics of College Reading
    Using culturally and linguistically appropriate materials, students practice critical reading through a series of reading exercises that are designed to move from one level to the next smoothly. Discussions based on the readings of various novels are an integral part of the course. Emphasis is placed on vocabulary as well.
  • CM100EA English Fundamentals
    This is a one-semester writing course designed for students who need extra assistance in their writing skills. Along with emphasizing the basic structure of an essay, the class will also give special attention to language acquisition.  Coreq: CM100EAL.
  • CM104EA Introduction to Composition
    Instruction and practice in writing English prose, with specific emphasis upon individual development and language acquisition. The course delves into the key components of critical writing, including mandatory laboratory work (CM100EAL) that aims to enhance and expand vocabulary. Special use is made of peer group discussion and other non-traditional teaching techniques. All students must take and pass a Proficiency Examination at the end of CM104EA and CM115EA. Coreq: CM100EAL, Prereq: CM100EA
  • CM115EA Introduction to Composition II
    Instruction and practice in writing English prose, with specific emphasis upon individual development and language acquisition. The course focuses on incorporating research into the students’ writing, with attention placed on MLA format. Special use is made of peer group discussion and other non-traditional teaching techniques. All students must take a Proficiency Examination at the end of CM104EA and CM115EA. Coreq: CM100EAL, Prereq: CM104EA
  • CM100EAL Language Workshop
    These are non-credit language workshops that all students are required to take in conjunction with CM100EA, CM104EA, and CM115EA.
  • SO-206-FR Exploring American Identities
    This course is designed to explore multiple aspects of identity and the ways in which individuals and groups self identify or are identified in the United States. Students will read and respond to personal essays on the following themes: linguistic, identity, identity and place, work in America, education, relationships, and social networking.
    Coreq: EA032
  • EL-134EA Fiction
    This course is designed to initiate and develop understanding and appreciation of the nature, properties, and traditions of prose fiction. In addition, standards of judgement and evaluation will be established to stimulate critical interest in this literary form
    Prereq: CM115EA