Objectives:
The course and Certificates in English as a Second Language (ESL) are designed for adults from non-English speaking backgrounds. Students learn English as a second language to prepare them for living in Australia. Students will have improved educational and vocational pathways through learning and using new English skills. The courses provide students with opportunities to improve English language skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Numeracy is also covered in the Course in ESL. The courses cover employment and living skills, knowledge of Australian Society and strategies for successful transition into work or further study in Australia. The certificate courses are offered in access, employment, professional and further study and each includes a range of units. Every Certificate level requires a level of English corresponding with the descriptors provided by the International Second Language Proficiency Rating (ISLPR). Courses in Employment and Further Studies may also be available.
Entry Requirements:
Entry requirements are determined by language level. All applicant’s will be interviewed and assessed by a trained ESL teacher and suitably placed. The teacher will use descriptors provided by the International Second Language Proficiency Rating Scale (ISLPR) as a guide.
Award:
Certificate IV in ESL (Access)
Course Description:
Modules / Units of Competency
There are a number of Modules / Units of Competency that form the Certificate IV in ESL (Access). The Modules / Units of Competency and hours listed below are included in the current Gordon course structure and are subject to change.
Title Approx. Hours
Research pathways and produce a learning plan and portfolio 10
Speaking and Listening Units (1 or 2 units)
Analyse and participate in complex conversations 80
Give and respond to a wide range of oral presentations and instructions 80
Reading and Writing Units (1 or 2 units)
Read and write a range of complex or extended texts 80
Read and write instructions and advisory texts 80
Read and write extended creative texts in English 80
Elective units – language skills will be chosen for you by your Course Coordinator 150–160
General elective units will be chosen for you by your Course Coordinator 150
Certificate I–IV in ESL (Access) electives
Use basic computing language and skills 50
Use the internet and email to develop language 50
Organise and participate in a practical placement 50
Use services in the local community 50
Locate information on driving and buying a car 50
Locate health and medical information 50
Investigate current issues 50
Australian Environment 50
Australian Government 50
Australian Law 50
Education in Australia 50
Australian Art and Culture 50
Indigenous Australia 50
Australian History 50
Duration
The Course and Certificates in ESL are full-time* over 32 weeks. Students can expect approximately 16 hours of class attendance each week over four days. Students can start courses throughout the year.
* A part-time study program may be customised according to demand.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are selected for a specific course according to their language level, goals and commitment to learning and any specific criteria relating to funding authorities.
All applicants will be required to attend an interview.
Pathways
Links and options exist between various levels of study. Accredited pathways exist enabling students to move between courses within the Gordon and to other higher education institutions.
Certificate IV in ESL (Access)
Options exist which enable students to move between courses at the Gordon and to other higher ed
Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) may be given for skills and knowledge gained through previous study or other relevant experience. For further information refer to the RPL brochure that can be found under Downloads & Forms.
Gordon Institute Support Services
The Gordon offers a range of support services to assist prospective students with course, career or fee advice. For enrolled students, the Gordon provides general education support, counselling and careers advisors, disability support services and an Indigenous Education Unit. The Gordon also offers an on-campus Student Residence for students living away from home. If you need assistance in any of these aspects please let a Gordon staff member know so that we can arrange assistance where appropriate.