Lee University’s Department of Language and Literature will
offer free adult ESL (English as a Second Language) classes to the
community through its English Language Center from Sept. 15 through
Nov. 17.

There will be five levels of classes offered ranging from
Novice, for those who speak no English, to Advanced, for those who
are more proficient in English. This wide range of levels allows
students to focus their learning on the level needed.

The program is led by Dr. Chris Blake, associate professor of
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and
Linguistics at Lee and director of Lee’s English Learning Center.
The courses are taught by student-instructors, all of whom are
professionally trained in the TESOL program.

Small class sizes allow tailored experiences for students,
letting the teachers address the unique learning style of each
individual so students can achieve their personal goals. This model
helps to develop the conversational skills of students.

“We are very excited about offering these classes to the public
for the sixth year in a row,” said Blake. “Our numbers have grown
steadily from 20 to over 80 students regularly attending last
spring. I believe the reason for this growth is the curriculum
which is customized to the needs of students and encourages
authentic communication in English.”

The classes will be held Thursday evenings from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
in the Walker Memorial Building, and there will be signs directing
students to the building and rooms. Free childcare will be provided
for children ages 6-12.

For more information about the classes, contact Dr. Blake
at [email protected] or
423-614-8223.