Summer Session
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Summer Programs NMH Summer Session

English as a Second Language Program

For Students Entering Grades 7–12
June 28—August 2, 2008
$6,200

Places are currently available. Although there is no application deadline, complete materials should be submitted as soon as possible. Financial aid is no longer available.

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 and are designed to provide practice in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Tests are 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 will be placed in courses in the Middle School Program or College Prep Program (depending on the student’s age).

Participants
Students entering grades 7 to 12 with a record of solid performance and good citizenship are encouraged to apply for this program. Each class averages ten 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, and speaking skills. Class discussion, skits, role playing, and video-taped 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 trips and events such as the annual ESL talent show and an international fair provide additional, fun learning experiences with the entire group of ESL students. Evening homework is supported by study sessions that include videos, audiotapes, word processing, and computer-assisted instruction.

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. (Exception: ESL students who will be 15 years old by June 2008 and will enter ninth grade next year choose from the College Prep 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 may elect 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 many optional trips to Six Flags amusement park, beaches, whitewater rafting, Boston, New York City, and other places of interest.