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ESL (English as Second Language) is the name commonly given in the United States to the teaching of English to immigrants. Another name is EFL (English as Foreign Language), though this is often reserved for the studying of English overseas. The programs that handle ESL instruction are often collectively called TESL or TESOL (Teaching English to Students of Other Languages), allowing that it may be in fact their third, fourth, or higher language. As a nation composed largely of immigrants, America is eager to teach English to immigrants. Accommodations are made for those who don't speak English, but it is a controversial issue, and command of English is a great boost to one's chances for success in the United States. Studying English should be the highest priority of immigrants looking to succeed in America. Courses in English as a Second Language take many forms. A good starting place to learn about them is Esl.com, a thorough locator site for ESL courses and classes in the United States, well updated and available in Japanese, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Portuguese. The site is directed at foreign students interested in coming to the United States to learn English. There are ESL classes offered at very low cost in most metropolitan areas via Adult Education programs. These classes probably meet only a time or two per week, though more frequent classes are available in many places. Fairfax County, Virginia, for example has a variety of ESL offerings and at very low prices. Tuition and books for a class that meets in two 2-hour sessions per week for 12 weeks is about $250. Another 12-week ESL course involving 3-hour sessions five times a week is incredibly less than $600. And the courses are offered in multiple locations and at multiple times. Foreign students can probably find adequate, inexpensive courses that are convenient to their work schedules. Most colleges in the United States have summer ESL programs for incoming international students who can arrive before the fall semester.
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English as Second Language
