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Course Syllabus

Course: ESL 0431

Division: Humanities
Department: English/Second Language
Title: Level 2 American Culture and Values for International Students

Semester Approved: Spring 2021
Five-Year Review Semester: Fall 2025
End Semester: Fall 2026

Catalog Description: This course will provide international students with an introduction to American culture and values. Students will read and discuss essays dealing with different aspects of American culture, values, and thought. Field trips to local businesses, ranches, museums, and schools also play a significant role in helping students gain firsthand experience.

Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 1.5; Lecture: 3; Lab: 0

Prerequisites: Placement in ESL 0431 through the department

Justification: The ESL Department at Snow College houses the intensive ESL program which is accredited through the American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP).The four-level program provides instruction for students at Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4 (elementary through exiting levels). This course is part of the core curriculum for Level 2.


Student Learning Outcomes:
Successful ESL 0431 students will understand the differences and similarities between the cultural values of their own countries and those of the United States. They will have increased English reading and writing abilities, and vocabulary through study of American culture and values. Students will demonstrate the mastery of these skills through homework assignments, participating in class activities and presentations, and by taking quizzes and tests.


Content:
Through readings and discussions, this course will focus on a variety of cultural topics, such as food, family life, religion, advertising, leisure activities, sports, architecture, vacationing and recreation, politics, dating, and marriage customs that are found in the USA and compare with the students' home culture.

Key Performance Indicators:
The following ranges will be used for the purpose of assessment. In order to pass the course, students must demonstrate a B mastery of course materials. Students who earn a grade below B (85%) will be required to repeat the course.

Attendance and Paricipation 10 to 15%

Presentations 15 to 20%

Homework 20 to 25%

Quizzes 15 to 20%

Tests 25 to 35%


Representative Text and/or Supplies:
Williams, Academic Encounters (current edition), Cambridge University Press


Pedagogy Statement:
ESL courses consist of students representing diverse cultural, linguistic, and background knowledge which serves as a resource, strength, and benefit. All students are welcomed to share their unique backgrounds and experiences while giving presentations, working in small groups or pairs, contributing to class discussions, or writing to express personal insights. Moreover, various learning needs of all students, regardless of their age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, nationality, race, religion, sexuality, and socioeconomic status are acknowledged and accommodated through uses of various types of teaching methods, learning activities, and modes of evaluation.

Instructional Mediums:
Lecture

Online

Hybrid

Maximum Class Size: 20
Optimum Class Size: 10