At Cabrillo, around 40% of students in our basic writing classes do not speak English as their primary language.  Some ESL students have been successful doctors, lawyers, and other kinds of professionals in their home countries.  However, like all ESL students, they must be patient and realize that it will take time to become as fluent in English as they are in their first, or primary, language(s).

ESL students face special challenges in college.  There is often difficulty in dealing with the strange words, phrases, grammar, and sentence structure in a new language.  Furthermore, there is (most likely) a different style of academic writing, different punctuation rules, and a bizarre spelling system.  Even so, many ESL students have gone on to earn degrees at Cabrillo and to get better jobs.  Additionally, many students have graduated and transferred to universities and earned Bachelors, Masters, and other higher degrees.

ESL CHALLENGES & STRATEGIES:

Some ESL students have difficulty understanding instructors in classes.  Even so, students are welcome to ask questions, usually during class time.

• If you don't get your answer during class, then try approaching the teacher before or after class, or during your instructors' office hours. 
• Students can request written assignments or notes although they are not always available from teachers. 
• You can also ask your teacher's permission to tape record lectures to review again if you have difficulty keeping up with note-taking.
• Some teachers are very accessible over email, and you can get your answer that way in writing.
• Finally, it is a good idea to make a friend or two in each class, in case you are absent or have a question.

Some ESL grammar problems last longer than others.  Preposition, article, and gerund/infinitive difficulties are particularly persistent.  Therefore, many ESL students in advanced English courses still need help with these isssues.

A lack of vocabulary is yet another challenge to ESL students.  Reading college-level essays, articles, magazines, and books (in English, of course) takes time.

• ESL students may find it helpful to continue to take vocabulary and conversation classes for extra practice in the ESL and Reading departments.
• Conversing with native English speakers is also strongly recommended for developing vocabulary. Try starting up study groups that include native English speakers for more difficult classes.
• The ESL lab has materials to help you develop your listening skills and your vocabulary. ESL students may continue to take advantage of the lab and its resources even after they're out of ESL classes.

ESL Lab and Resources:

If you have already come through the ESL program, you probably know about the ESL lab at the Aptos campus.  However, if you are new or have not used the lab before, you should know there are several services available to you. The same services are also available to ESL students at the Watsonville Integrated Learning Center (ILC).  All ESL students, at any level, in any class, are invited. 

At the ESL Lab or the ILC, you can receive tutoring assistance with writing, reading, pronunciation, and grammar.  Special machines to practice listening and pronounciation skills are here to help you, as well as computer programs, websites, videos and DVDs.  Specially trained tutors can direct you to books and exercises.  You can receive one-on-one attention, even make appointments if you would like to.  COME SEE US!