WAYS TO IMPROVE ENGLISH
FORMAL ESL CLASSES (ENGLISH-AS-A-SECOND-LANGUAGE)
Many classes are available to help non-native speakers improve their command of English. These programs provide a variety of
courses (such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, writing, and conversation) at a variety of levels (such as beginning,
intermediate, and advanced). Some also offer “English for special purposes” classes, which focus on English as used in specific
subject-matter areas such as business, science, medicine, or engineering. In general, ESL courses aim to prepare individuals for
real-life experience in American laboratories, workplaces, classrooms, and communities. These programs may also organize
events and activities such as conversation partners and trips, and may be able to provide tutors for individualized instruction.
This is a sample of ESL courses in the area, please search online for more options.
 Jupiter Community High School offers classes year-round. For information, contact 561.745. 3416 or
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/ESOL.asp
 EL Sol Resource Center, Jupiter offers many free English classes (English, Conversational English, Computer skills, and
Children’s English literacy class). Classes provide an introduction to American culture along with opportunities to
socialize. Located at 106 Military Trail just south of Indiantown Road, next to the Jupiter Police Department. Call 561745-9860 or email vickie@friendsofelsol.org.
 Palm Beach State College, Palm Beach Gardens Campus offers classes for academic purposes or through continuing
education. See http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/programs/eap/
DO-IT-YOURSELF ENGLISH IMPROVEMENT
This is probably the most accessible form of English-language practice available. It will require more work on your part such as
preparing some conversation topics and approaching people directly.
Scripps Library has a resource page on ESL under "Subject Guides" on the library webpage:
http://www.scripps.edu/library/esl.html. Here is a sample of some available resources:
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Compelling Conversations: Questions &
Quotations on Timeless Topics
Writing Better English
Practice Makes Perfect: English Verbs
Essential Grammar in Use
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American Accent Training, book & CDs
Rapido y Facil Ingles, 4 audio CDs
Instant Immersion English Deluxe v.3.0, 5 audio CDs, 1
DVD Video, 1 DVD –ROM PC software, 1 Win/MAC CDROM software.
Toastmasters International is an organization devoted to the improvement of public speaking. Toastmasters can be an
excellent way to improve English and to develop confidence when public speaking. There is a meeting every Tuesday from
12pm – 1pm in the Boardroom, Building B 2nd floor. Contact Brittany McIntosh, at bmcintos@scripps.edu, for more
information.
Mass media can be helpful. Television, radio, newspapers, and magazines can expose you to everyday English and give you
information on topics you can discuss with other people such as news events, social trends, athletic contests, etc.
Informal ESL conversation groups can provide helpful opportunities to discuss topics of mutual interest in a comfortable
setting. If you are interested in forming a conversation group within TSRI, post an inquiry on the list serve “classified-fl”.
You can join the list serve at http://lists.scripps.edu/.
Mary’s/Info Sheets/Ways to Improve English (08/2015)