Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL): Certification Track

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Academics / Departments & Programs / Education / Academics / Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL): Certification Track

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL): Certification Track

minor

Degree Overview

As you explore this minor, consider that the population of English language learners is growing rapidly in the United States and TESOL teachers are in high demand.

With a minor in this growing field, you'll be equipped to reach students in your classroom who are learning English. At the same time, you'll gain valuable cross-cultural experiences that will position you well in your field.

Program Distinctives

Student teaching - Experience is a critical part of Calvin's education program. Gain field experience as a Calvin ESL minor and discover what you love about teaching.
Local TESOL programs - In Grand Rapids, one in seven people don't speak English, so many of the local schools have TESOL programs. Start crossing barriers as a student teacher.
High certification rates - Calvin's education department prepares you for the future. Our graduates have a 93 percent pass rate on the teacher certification exam—one of the highest in the state.

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Degree Information

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  • Other Details

    The TESOL minor prepares students to (1) promote educational equity and the academic achievement of learners whose home language is not English; (2) deliver instruction in how to speak, read, write, listen, and communicate in English; and (3) support learners in their acquisition of content knowledge and academic language while they learn English.

    Students in the education program must combine the TESOL minor with one of the following majors: elementary education, biology, chemistry, earth/space, English, history, social studies, integrated science, mathematics, physics, or a world Language. Previously certified teachers seeking an additional endorsement in ESL must also possess an endorsement in one of these content areas.

    The program leads to the K-12 English as a Second Language endorsement on the Michigan teaching certificate. Students who are not in the Education program should complete the non-certified TESOL minor.

    Secondary candidates should consider the English major in addition to the TESOL minor.

    If the TESOL minor is combined with the language arts minor, ENGL 275, 270, and 372 may not overlap. Select other courses from the language arts minor options.

    If the TESOL minor is combined with the language arts major, two overlaps are permitted (ENGL 270 and 275).

    If the TESOL minor is combined with the Spanish minor, SPAN 340 may not overlap. ENGL 270 will need to be completed in addition. IDIS 356 or 357 may overlap.

Advisor

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Abraham Ceballos-Zapata

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