English as a Second Language Program

For Students Entering Grades 7–12

June 30—August 4, 2012

Goals
For students who would like to spend the summer improving their English language skills, we offer instruction in English as a Second Language. Levels range from beginning to advanced. Classes are designed to provide practice in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

A test is given at the beginning of the session to enable each student’s placement in the proper level of ESL. If test results show that a student’s English is strong enough, he/she is placed in courses in the Middle School Program or College Prep Program (depending on the student’s age).

Participants
Students entering grades 7-12 with a record of solid performance and good citizenship are encouraged to apply for this program.

Each class averages 10 to 12 students and is taught by a master teacher and a teaching intern who are selected for their ability to understand and communicate with international students.

Course Work
Each student in this program takes an ESL class that meets for three hours each morning, Monday through Saturday. Class work and activities focus on improving students' reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Class discussions, skits, role playing, and videotaped performances complement traditional forms of instruction. Class trips to nearby points of interest provide students with an opportunity to learn more about local and US culture while improving their English outside the classroom. Special full-program field trips and an international fair provide fun learning experiences with the entire group of ESL students.

Schedule
In addition to the morning course, all students take an afternoon minor course and a sport. ESL students entering grades 7-9 make their minor course and sport choices from the Middle School Program offerings, and those entering grades 10-12 choose from the College Prep Program offerings. Minor courses and sports are scheduled four afternoons a week.

Each student participates in the work program, performing a job that benefits the community. Each evening except Saturday, a supervised study period is conducted in the dorms and the library; special efforts are made to maintain a quiet atmosphere and to help students develop good study habits.

Recreation
Playing fields, tennis and basketball courts, swimming pool, country roads for cycling, and a natural environment give numerous opportunities for recreational activities.

In the free time after dinner until the evening study period begins, students can choose to participate in the intramural sports program, see movies, play tennis, study, join in other organized campus activities—or just relax.

Weekend activities include dances, movies, talent shows, and relaxation. For those who wish to take part, there are optional trips to Six Flags amusement park, whitewater rafting, Boston, and other places of interest.

Tuition and Fees
The program fee of $6,900 in U.S. funds for boarding students covers:

• tuition for all major and minor courses and sports, except additional fees as noted in the course descriptions;


• placement testing;


• meals and housing;


• medical services at NMH's health center;


• bed linens, towels, pillows, blankets;


• weekly laundry service;


• all class-related trips and special ESL Program field trips;


• on-campus social activities and some off-campus trips.

Expenses not included in the program fee are:

• textbooks (costs range from $50 to $200);


• health insurance--students are required to purchase NMH-provided health insurance that provides medical coverage while they are attending NMH Summer Session unless they already have effective coverage and parents provide complete information (insurance must be with a company in the U.S. and must be approved by NMH health services);


• $250 activities fee--required fee covers optional trips, such as excursions to Boston and other activities that charge an entrance fee (unused balance is refunded).