Course Descriptions

English As a Second Language - ESL
Course Classification

Courses numbered 1-49 — are baccalaureate level (transfer) courses. Courses thus numbered are transferable to four- year institutions. Agriculture courses are designed to parallel the work taught in similar courses at California Polytechnic State University or at California State University, Fresno but may not carry the same number.

Courses numbered 50-99 — are associate degree level courses. Courses thus numbered are primarily for the student who does not plan to continue his/her education beyond the community college level; however, occupational education courses may transfer according to articulation agreements. Complete information on articulation is available through the Counseling Center.

Courses Numbered 100-201 — are non-transfer and are non-degree applicable; they are skill building or remedial.

Abbreviations for Degree, Non-Degree, and Transfer Courses

The following abbreviations designate degree applicable, transfer, and non-degree applicable courses:
(AA) Associate Degree
(CSU) Transferable to California State University System
(UC) Transferable to University of California System
(NDA) Non-Degree Applicable

  • ESL-001
  • Composition for College
  • Credit(s) 5

Composition for College
ESL 001 is the study of standard college-level reading, writing, speaking and listening focusing on critical thinking skills. Students will practice the writing process by composing essays with effective writing skills and will develop academic literacy by employing advanced techniques of essay and research writing with an emphasis on critical thinking, argumentation or other rhetorical strategies, synthesis of research materials, and academic citation. Each module will reinforce the development of English reading, writing, grammar, presentation, communication, and research skills. This course is the equivalent of ENG001A.

Class Hours:
90 Lecture
Anti-Requisite(s) ENG 001A:
Advisory(s):
ESL 135
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
ENGL 100
  • ESL-120
  • Converstion Practice & Everyda
  • Credit(s) 3

Conversation Practice & Everyday English
ESL 120 is for students whose native language is not English. This course includes listening and speaking practice with an emphasis on developing conversation skills for everyday situations.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP
  • ESL-210
  • ESL for College and Work
  • Credit(s) 3

ESL for College and Work
ESL 210 is designed to help the English Language Learner acquire general language skills needed to function effectively in work and academic environments. Emphasis is placed on the practice of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and computer skills. This low-intermediate level ESL course develops oral and written communication skills in English within the context of work environments. Students study and practice vocabulary for communicating with employers, customers, and industry professionals. Students learn about their profession and explore opportunities in their career industry.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
  • ESL-125
  • Conversation Practice Inter Le
  • Credit(s) 3

Conversation Practice Intermediate Level
ESL 125 is for students whose native language is not English but who can already speak basic English. This course continues conversation practice with an emphasis on increasing vocabulary and fluency. Students may enroll in 1 unit (6 weeks of study), 2 units (12 weeks of study), or 3 units (18 weeks of study) per semester.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP
  • ESL-130
  • Reading and Writing Beginning
  • Credit(s) 3

Reading and Writing Beginning Level
ESL 130 is for students whose native language is not English. This course emphasizes beginning reading, basic grammar, and sentence writing. Students may enroll in 1 unit (6 weeks of study), 2 units (12 weeks of study), or 3 units (18 weeks of study) per semester.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP
  • ESL-135
  • Reading and Writing Intermedia
  • Credit(s) 3

Reading and Writing Intermediate Level
ESL 135 is for students who have advanced ESL skills in reading, writing, and speaking. Students will practice communication skills necessary for career and life. This will be done through presentations, role playing, and mock interviews.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP