Basic Level

The Basic level is composed of two courses designed for the different needs of different kinds of incoming students.

ESL I

This course is designed for those who have no English skills at all or only very rudimentary skills. Those entering this level have difficulty understanding spoken English and speaking it, have a limited vocabulary, and are able to form only basic sentences, often with grammatical errors. This level focuses almost entirely on listening comprehension, accent reduction, cultural awareness, and conversation with an emphasis on scenarios the students are most likely to encounter in daily life. Upon completion of this course, students are able to engage in simple daily conversations with a working vocabulary of about 1,000 frequently used words, be able to formulate questions, and have a grasp of the simple present and past tense, present and past continuous tenses, and future tense. They will also be able to write a three-paragraph story using the grammar and vocabulary they have learned.

ESL II

Students in this course generally have a higher level of English proficiency than in ESL I and can demonstrate a working knowledge of the language. In this course, they work on adding about 1,200 words to their vocabulary, refining their pronunciation, and improving their grammar so that they can begin to feel comfortable with their listening and speaking skills. Students will also read short articles, essays, and short stories and do a little writing, with an emphasis on art-related topics and simple vocabulary associated with the performing arts. Specifically, they will learn more terminology associated with stage performance, including music, art, and dance. By the end of the course, students are expected to read a short 6th grade novel and write a book report.

By the end of the Basic level, artists in the EFA program should be able to hold simple conversations with orchestra conductors, accompanists, stage and production crews, and other artists and also have rudimentary reading and writing skills. Media professionals in the EMP program should have a basic grasp of the English terminology used in the arts and be able to write short articles. Students must pass a basic level English language proficiency exam in order to receive the Fei Tian English Language Program Basic Level Certificate.