Welcome To Open Hearts Language Academy - Student Orientation Booklet International Students - OHLA
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Welcome
To
Open Hearts Language Academy
Student Orientation Booklet
International Students
(Revised March 2021)
CONTENTS
Welcome to Open Hearts Language Academy page 3
Mission Statement page 4
Our International ESL program page 5
Assessment page 9
Promotion Policy page 10
Cell Phone and English Only Policies page 12
Attendance Policy page 13
Payment Policy page 14
Cancellation and Refund Policies page 15
Vacation and Leave of Absence Policies page 16
Health Insurance page 18
F1- Student Regulations page 19
Probation Form page 20
Grievance Procedures page 21
Grievance Form page 22
Complaint Form page 23
Repeat Level Form page 24
What your campus has to offer page 25
Achievement Scale Appendix
2
Welcome to Open Hearts Language Academy!
We are delighted that you have decided to study English with us at OHLA. Open Hearts Language
Academy is an international service-oriented organization, which has its central office in Miami,
Florida. Our mission is to provide high-quality academic programs and cultural opportunities for
people who wish to learn English as a second language for academic, professional, or personal
purposes.
At Open Hearts Language Academy, our total commitment is to facilitate the advancement of
students’ communicative language skills in English through a variety of means. We offer personal
service and high-quality, student-oriented curriculum and instruction. We also give students insight
into United States culture through activities and social experiences outside of the Institute. One of the
best things is that students come to study at Open Hearts Language Academy from many different
countries, so you will have the opportunity to share and compare your experiences with students from
many different cultural backgrounds.
The teachers that you will have at Open Hearts Language Academy are highly qualified English
language instructors. Our instructors come from a variety of professional backgrounds. Many of our
instructors have advanced degrees in English-language instruction and all have many years of teaching
experience. It is our personal goal to help you really improve your English and have a great time while
you are here at Open Hearts Language Academy.
Thank you,
Wioletta Bublik
Admissions Director
Open Hearts Language Academy
Hours of operation
Note that our offices are open from 08:30 am to 7:00 pm and that our Staff and Faculty members
are pleased to assist you at anytime. However, students are discouraged to meet with Staff members
during class time.
3
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide a learning environment that challenges and supports students in achieving their linguistic
goals for personal or professional growth, or in gaining entrance into an American University through
its Pathway Program.
Qualified teachers strive to provide a student-centered environment which enhances academic
learning and makes it possible for students to explore linguistic creativity.
Necessary institutional resources are allocated to offer a comprehensive curriculum, outstanding
student services, impeccable institutional facilities and innovative technology for learning English as a
Second Language.
Knowledgeable and dedicated staff members ensure that, at all times, students are satisfied with their
English language studies and are successfully integrated into the community.
Goals and objectives
¨ To provide an educational Program that is balanced in the development of the mental, physical and
social life of the student.
¨ To maintain high standards in teaching and learning and to instill them in our students.
¨ To produce qualified, efficient, personable, self-confident and, therefore, superior language
speakers.
¨ To provide counseling for those who wish to pursue a degree in a US university.
¨ To unite students from all over the world through the English Language.
¨ To provide a hospitable climate wherein faculty and students may pursue excellence, truth, and
continuing relevance.
¨ To give individual attention to each student making his/her course as meaningful and successful as
possible.
4
OUR INTERNATIONAL ESL PROGRAM
The objective of our international ESL program is to improve the students’ overall English proficiency.
Our integrated ESL program is offered in 9 different levels with each of these levels being divided in
six two-week units. This will allow our students to not only move at their own pace, but to be
continuously challenged by new material.
Levels offered
Electives
Open Hearts Language Academy offers additional programs to our students. In addition to our regular
curriculum, an Intensive and a Super-Intensive program have been added to our instructional
schedule.
An array of complementary courses has been designed at different levels of language proficiency.
These courses are 12 weeks [24 hrs] in duration.
Students in the Intensive program take two afternoon courses; each meeting two days per week.
Students in the Super-Intensive program have four afternoon courses.
The courses developed for the Intensive and Super-Intensive programs are skill and proficiency
based. Among others, we offer classes focused on Reading and Writing, Listening and Speaking, and
Business and Vocabulary.
B. Test Preparation program: This program is designed for users who are preparing to sit in for one
of the language exams, such as TOEFL, IELTS or FCE, and CAE, and would like to increase their
performance scores.
C. Private Instruction: Focus on specific needs including conversation, writing, accent reduction, etc.
D. Executive Program: This program is custom designed for one on one instruction for busy executives
who want to improve their English in a short amount of time. Programs vary from 1 to 15 lessons per
week.
E. Youth Camp Program: A program designed for younger students who want to study English and
have fun too.
5
CURRICULUM
The curriculum at Open Hearts is meant to be open-ended and ongoing. Each 8 or 12-week session is
subdivided into 2-week blocks. Students may commence studies at the beginning of each two-week block. For
instance, if a student were to start at the beginning of the fourth week (beginning of the second block), he would
complete the remaining blocks, and would then take the remaining block, being promoted to the next level only
upon achieving the required acceptable average of ALL biweekly block exams and tasks.
While the blocks are designed to be as self-contained and non-cumulative as possible, it is inevitable that the
material will build on itself to some degree. It is therefore incumbent on the instructor to fill in the gaps in the
student’s knowledge as necessary to the extent that it is possible. The instructor should not forget, however, that
the student will eventually be exposed to the material he has not studied, after completing the course.
Sessions offered
6
“OHLA L.I.F.E.” program
To supplement our Award-Winning English program, each Friday students are provided with the opportunity to
experience learning in a different setting (other teachers, other classmate, etc.) and/or to concentrate on specific
area(s) of their learning they are most interested in or feel that they need to practice more.
Depending on demand, classes listed below are offered
Conversation Club: Basic Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
Conversation Club: Advanced Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
Pronunciation Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
Accent Reduction Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
Business Communication 1 Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1(oral based)
Business Communication 2 Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus (written based)
Survival English in daily life Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
Survival English in the work-place Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
TOEFL Prep: Basic Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
TOEFL Prep: Advanced Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
Please note that OHLA L.I.F.E.” is offered free of charge to anyone who is interested – feel free to bring your
friends and relatives to take classes with you. Minimum age requirement is 16 years of age.
(*) OHLA will provide snacks and refreshments to students during the “extended break” on that day
Participation
There is only one way to learn a language – PRACTICE! Therefore, it is so important for students at Open
Hearts Language Academy to attend and participate in all classes.
Participation means:
Ø Coming to class
Ø Paying attention to the lesson
Ø Getting involved in the classroom discussions
Ø SPEAKING ENGLISH ON CAMPUS AT ALL TIMES
7SCHEDULE
MIAMI BRICKEL / AVENTURA DAY SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive
13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00
09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
Super Intensive 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00
14:30 to 15:30 14:30 to 15:30 14:30 to 15:30 14:30 to 15:30
Exam Prep 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
One to one 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00
09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
Semi + Exam Prep
14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
MIAMI BRICKEL / AVENTURA EVENING SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05
20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00
17:15 to 18:15 17:15 to 18:15 17:15 to 18:15 17:15 to 18:15 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05
20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00
8ASSESSMENT
Block Exams
At the end of each 2-week block students will sit for an exam that evaluates how well they have assimilated the
material covered during that time of study. The block exams will cover all aspects studied in class: listening,
speaking, reading and writing. These exams will let our teachers know if the students are learning or not, how
much progress has been made, and determine whether or not students are ready to go on to the next level.
Tasks
Each block, students will have to complete an oral and a written task. The level of difficulty of these tasks will
be in line with the students’ level of proficiency and will reflect the learning outcomes as described in the
course outlines.
Homework
To facilitate our students’ learning of English, teachers will give them homework regularly. Each student should
come to class with his or her work finished or with questions about the assignment, if he or she did not
understand the exercise.
Quizzes
Students will have regular quizzes, in addition to the block exams, in order to determine if they are making
progress and if they understand the material presented.
How is your final mark going to be calculated for the Semi-Intensive classes?
Grading Scale Course Grading Policy
A = 90 – 100% Block Exams and Tasks 80%
B = 80 – 89% Homework & Quizzes 20%
C = 70 – 79%
D = 60 – 69%
F = Less than 60%
How is your final mark going to be calculated for the Intensive and Super-Intensive classes?
Grading Scale Course Grading Policy
A = 90 – 100% Midterm & Final Exams 70%
B = 80 – 89% Homework & Quizzes 30%
C = 70 – 79%
D = 60 – 69%
F = Less than 60%
For test preparation classes (TOEFL, IELTS, FCE, and CAE), progress is demonstrated through weekly practice
tests that assess the achievement of learning objectives.
Make-up Block Exams
Any student with an excused absence can make up a block exam.
9Other Make-up Work
It is the students’ responsibility to make up any missed work. Upon their return to school after an absence,
students have 3 days to make up missed work. They must check with their teacher about all work missed as a
result of being absent.
Student-Teacher Conferences
Individual student conferences inform students of their progress and areas of concern. They are considered
essential to the assessment process. As students’ progress through the course, they will participate in individual
conferences with their teachers at least twice during each session: once in the middle and once near the end.
During these conferences, the teacher will provide students with suggested exercises, activities or resources that
they can use in order to make their learning experience more valuable. For each conference, a form is completed
by the teacher providing specific feedback to students. A copy will be given to the student, and the original will
be placed in the student’s academic file.
Exit Exams
Students leaving the program will be required to take an exit exam. The exam will be a different form of the
CaMLA ept (English proficiency test) published by Cambridge University Press. This provides the school with
another tool to measure learning over the students’ entire course of study.
PROMOTION POLICY
To be promoted to the next level, students need to achieve a score of at least 75% on exams, tasks, homework
and quizzes.
For an 8-week session
Students who enter the program in Block 1 or 2 will automatically be considered for promotion.
Students who enter in Block 3 and who wish to be considered for promotion and plan on continuing to the next
session will need to;
- Make up the Written and Oral task for the missed block
- Write the “comprehensive exam” at the end of the session
Students who enter in Block 3 and do not wish to be considered for promotion will not need to make up any
missed assignments. Students who enter in Block 4 CANNOT be considered for promotion.
For a 12-week session
Students who enter the program in Block 1 or 2 will automatically be considered for promotion.
Students who enter in Block 3 or 4 and who wish to be considered for promotion and plan on continuing to the
next session will need to;
- Make up the Written and Oral task for the missed block
- Write the “comprehensive exam” at the end of the session
Students who enter in Block 3 or 4 and do not wish to be considered for promotion will not need to make up
any missed assignments. Students who enter in Block 5 or 6 CANNOT be considered for promotion.
10Repeat and Conditional Promotion
Students who do not meet the passing requirements will not be promoted to the next level. However, under
certain circumstances and upon the teacher’s recommendation and Academic Director/Leader’s approval, a
student may be allowed to pass conditionally to the next level. In such cases, the Academic Director/Leader
will meet with the teacher during the following session to monitor the student’s performance and together they
may decide to re-assign the student to the lower level.
Students are allowed to repeat only one level in General or Academic English. If the students fail or choose to
repeat the level, they will have to sign The Repeat Level Form.
Early Promotion Policy
Within the first 2 weeks of testing and being assigned an initial level, any new student who wishes to be
considered for the next level is required to re-take the CAMLA Placement Test as well as the Written and Oral
assessment.
Within the first 2 weeks of being promoted to a new level, any on-going student who wishes to be considered
for the next level is required to re-take the CAMLA Placement Test as well as the Written and Oral assessment.
After 2 weeks but not beyond 50% of any session, students with an average score of 80% in their current level
can qualify to move up a level by achieving an overall score of 75% or more on the Comprehensive Exam for
their current level along with a Written and Oral assessment.
How is the overall score calculated?
Comprehensive Exam 50% of the final mark
Written Assessment using OHLA’s Written Task Rubrics 25% of the final mark
Oral Assessment using OHLA’s Oral Task Rubrics 25% of the final mark
Please note:
1. Students are to complete the above assessment within the following timeline:
by the end of Block 2 (week 4) for an 8-week session
by the end of Block 3 (week 6) for a 12-week session
2. Level changes can only take effect at the start of a new block.
3. A student can only have one attempt at moving up a level.
4. Students changing level are required to buy the new books.
Satisfactory Progress
Satisfactory progress is defined as improving one’s English proficiency in a systematic and timely manner.
Students who do not pass a level are allowed to repeat a level ONLY ONCE without restrictions or conditions.
Failing the same level for the second time will result in one of the following actions:
• Mandatory tutoring at the student’s expense
• The student is counseled out of the program and into another learning institution
Additional Tools and Learning Opportunities
Open Hearts Language Academy offers a computer lab that students can use free of charge. The computer lab is
available to students from 8:30am to 10:00pm. All computers have internet access, allowing students to email
friends and family back home.
Open Hearts Language Academy also has an Activities Director who creates an Activity Calendar for each
month with visits to museums, the movies, boat tours and more!
11CELL PHONE POLICY
Open Hearts Language Academy has a very simple but strict cell phone policy that applies to both teachers and
students.
No cell phones are to be used in class at any time for any reason. In case of an emergency, students can be
reached by calling the school’s main number.
Aventura Campus (786) 567-4950 Orlando/MetroWest Campus (321) 325-9090
Boca Raton Campus (561) 275-5100 Tampa Campus (813) 537-5900
Miami/Brickell Campus (305) 379-4027 Winter Garden Campus (407) 809-4570
Orlando/Celebration Campus (407) 502-2500
ENGLISH ONLY POLICY
An English zone has been established at Open Hearts Language Academy. This zone extends from the
Administrative offices and throughout the hallways. It includes offices, lab, classes and common areas. Upon
entering this zone ALL students, faculty and staff are required to speak English only. Students and/or faculty
and staff wishing to speak a language other than English will have to leave the English zone.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
As a student of Open Hearts Language Academy, I understand that;
1. The only way to improve my English is to be put in situations where I must practice constantly.
2. It is Open Hearts Language Academy’s responsibility to provide me with a learning environment
which facilitates the constant practice of English
Therefore I, as an Open Hearts student, hereby promise to speak only English while I am on the premises
of Open Hearts Language Academy.
I also hereby promise NOT to speak my mother tongue, while I am on the premises of Open Hearts
Language Academy.
Failure to follow the rule would result in the following:
First offence: Verbal warning
Second offence: Being suspended from the current block and being marked absent. Re-entering the class
by making an oral presentation on the benefits of speaking English as much as possible.
Third offence: Being suspended from the current session and being marked absent. Re-entering the class
by writing a one (1) page essay on the benefits of speaking English as much as possible. This essay is to be
presented to the Academic Director/Leader or School Director and will have to be signed by them for
re-admittance into class.
Fourth offence: A two-day suspension and being put on probation for repeatedly failing school regulations.
12ATTENDANCE POLICY
Open Hearts Language Academy’s programs move at a quick pace, so it is very important that you do not
miss class.
At OHLA, class attendance is mandatory. Students must attend 80% of classes per session. More than 20%
absences will automatically result in the student being put on official probation. Students accumulating more
than 20% absences in any two months will face dismissal from the program.
Absences
This is how absences are calculated: you will be counted absent from a period if you are not in class for any
reason. However, absences might be excused if you can provide official documentation supporting that you
were away for a medical, dental, police, court or immigration appointment. Students are to attend a minimum
of 80% of their classes per session.
Depending on their program, students will attend 80% of class per session if they meet the following
requirements:
1. For 20 lessons, students attend an average of 16 lessons per week
2. For 25 lessons, students attend an average of 20 lessons per week
3. For 30 lessons, students attend an average of 24 lessons per week
4. For 35 lessons, students attend an average of 28 lessons per week
Note: 1 lesson is 50 minutes long; therefore, Period 1 and Period 2 each count for 2 lessons.
Late Policy
A student will not be allowed into class after the initial 15 minutes of each class.
Keep in mind that to be successful it is very important to be present as much as possible.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO CALL IN WHEN SICK
13PAYMENT POLICY
Fees & Initial Tuition payment
Upon application, initial application fees, tuition for the first 12-week [or up to your proposed length of study,
if less than 12 weeks], housing placement fees, and airport service fees are due and are to be paid by:
1. Sending payment to the institute bank account [wire transfer]
2. Sending a check drawn on a US bank or an international money order to our business office
On-going Fees & Tuition payment
Tuition payment is due at the beginning of every 12-week (session). Our business office will provide you with
an official invoice stating the amount due as well as the payment due date.
On-going tuition can be paid by mail or in person in the form of:
1. Check drawn on a US bank
2. Credit card payment [We accept Visa & MasterCard]
Installment Payment Plan
After completing their initial 12-week session, students who continue with the IEP program, have the option
to take advantage of several installment payment plans offered by the school. Ask the Front desk for more
details.
Note that fees for housing, materials, student services and health insurance (if requested) are due paid in full
at the beginning of each session.
Late payment fee
Tuitions and other fees are due on the assigned date. A late fee of 2% per payment will be access to overdue
account after 5 business days of the due date. Students are allowed an additional 5 business days after the
assigned date to bring their account up to date, otherwise students’ participation in class will no longer be
allowed and may risk have their F-1 visa terminated.
14CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICIES
If you cancel your enrollment prior to the start of the initial session in which you are enrolled, a cancellation
fee equal to 4 weeks tuition [or to your proposed length of study, if less than 4 weeks] will apply. However,
fees such as: housing stipend or residential fee and airport transfer fees will be refunded.
After the start of any session the following cancellation fees will apply:
Tuition
Tuition for the full 12-week session [or to your proposed length of study, if less than 12 weeks] is non-
refundable, unless you test above our highest level of instruction or have a documented medical emergency. If
you test above our highest level of instruction, tuition and fees paid will be refunded. If during your session
you must return to your home country for a documented emergency, the unused portion of your tuition will be
held on account for a period of one year, for use upon your return.
Housing stipend
A cancellation fee equal to 2 weeks of housing stipend will apply.
Residential fee
A cancellation fee equal to 2 weeks of paid residential fee will apply.
For any session in which you cancel, fees paid for materials, books, student services and health insurance [if
chosen] are non-refundable.
If Open Hearts Language Academy cancels the program, subsequent to your enrollment, all tuition and fees,
including the initial application fee, paid will be refunded.
If a student is terminated by Open Hearts Language Academy due to violations of the school written
disciplinary and/or attendance policies and/or local, state, or federal laws, no refund will be permitted.
If your tuition and fees are paid through an Open Hearts Language Academy representative in your country,
the refund will be processed through this representative.
15VACATION POLICY
1. For qualified students who register and study for a 24-week program, OHLA offers up to an 8-week
vacation period.
How to qualify:
• All requests for vacation must per made to and approved by the Admission office.
• Students must first complete 24 weeks of studies before requesting any vacation.
• Prior to their first approved vacation day, students must re-enroll and pay for the period following their
vacation period. Minimum re-enroll period is 12 weeks
Failure to re-enroll and pay will result in students' I-20 being completed on the last day at school prior to
their first scheduled vacation day.
2. For qualified students who register and study for a 44-week program OHLA offers up to a 12-week vacation
period.
How to qualify:
• All requests for vacation must per made to and approved by the Admission office.
• Students must first complete 24 weeks of studies before requesting any vacation.
• Students can divide their 12-week vacation in more than 1 segment.
• Students cannot request for more than an 8-week vacation period after their initial 24 weeks of studies
have been completed.
• If any vacation time is taken after completion of 44 weeks of studies, prior to their first approved-
scheduled vacation day, students must re-enroll and pay for the period following their vacation period.
Minimum re-enroll period is 12 weeks
Failure to re-enroll and pay will result in students' I-20 being completed on the last day at school prior to their
first scheduled vacation day.
Notes
1. After completing the 24th week of study, but before completion of their 44th week of study, a student
may not be absent for more than 8 consecutive weeks from school (including vacation and LOA).
2. After completing the 44th week of study, a student may not be absent more than 12 consecutive weeks
from school.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY
In case of documented emergencies, students are entitled to request one (1) Leave of Absence (LOA). This
LOA can only be granted by the School director and only if he/she feels that the request is warranted.
Please email your School Director/DSO if you wish to know if your situation qualifies for a Leave of Absence.
Note, that if your LOA is granted, tuition is payable for the period of your leave and that it will count against
the total number of weeks you registered for.
The total period of any LOA cannot exceed 4 weeks for each 12 months of consecutive enrollment.
16OPEN HEARTS LANGUAGE ACADEMY
VACATION & LEAVE OF ABSENCE FORM
Name:_____________________________ Phone:_________________________
Email:____________________________ Current Level:_____________________
VACATION POLICY
According to the F-1 student annual vacation regulation (8 CFR 214.2(f) (5) (iii)), an eligible F-1 student may have an
annual vacation only once per year and must intend to enroll for the term following annual vacation. A school break (e.g.,
winter or spring break) when school is not in session does not constitute annual vacation.
According to SEVP Policy Guidance “an eligible F-1 student attending a Language program must have completed twenty-
four weeks (24) of instructional time prior to taking the vacation.
How to qualify
To qualify for the vacation period, students will be required to have studied at OHLA for a minimum period of twenty-four
(24) weeks. Students who qualify will be required to request for vacation with the school director.
Students are eligible for 8 weeks of vacation per every 12 months.
Vacations must begin on a Monday and finish on a Friday. Weeks not used do not rollover into the next 12 months.
Students cannot take a vacation during the last weeks of their enrollment unless an extension has been completed.
If the student’s I-20 will expire during the vacation period, the student must present a bank statement before the vacation
can be approved by the school director.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY
In case of documented emergencies, students are entitled to request one (1) Leave of Absence (LOA). This LOA can only
be granted by the School director and only if he/she feels that the request is warranted.
Please email your School Director/DSO if you wish to know if your situation qualifies for a Leave of Absence.
Note, that if your LOA is granted, tuition is payable for the period of your leave and that it will count against the total
number of weeks you registered for.
Please note that the total period of any LOA cannot exceed 4 weeks for each 12 months of consecutive enrollment.
I understand the above policies and am requesting the following period(s):
Vacation: # of weeks: ____ Last day of class: ___/___/___ Return to class: ___/___/___
LOA: # of weeks: ____ Last day of class: ___/___/___ Return to class: ___/___/___
Student Signature: ___________________________________ Date: _____________________
PDSO / DSO Signature: ______________________________ I-20 End Date: _____/_____/___
Students cannot be excused from school for a period of more than 8 weeks at a time. Ex: 4 weeks of Leave of
absence & 8 weeks of vacation consecutively.
17HEALTH INSURANCE
Open Hearts Language Academy is proud to partner with Study Insured to provides free of charge to its
students the following health insurance coverage from their very first day of classes.
Summary of Benefits
Overall Limit 500,000
Coverage Type Emergency
Core Medical
Hospital Overall limit; standard
Physician Charges Overall limit
X-Ray, Lab & Diagnostic Overall limit
Private Duty Nursing $5,000.00
the rental of crutches or Hospital type bed, standard wheelchair, cost of
Equipment & Supplies
splints, canes, slings, trusses, braces or other prosthetic appliances
Prescription Medication
Prescription Medication 30 Day Supply
Transportation
Land Ambulance $1,000.00 per emergency
Air Ambulance/Evacuation $50,000.00
Return Home Benefit $5,000
Dental
Accident $2,000.00
Emergency $300.00
Death & Repatriation
Repatriation of Remains $10,000.00
Burial /cremation in lieu of repatriation $5,000.00
AD&D No Coverage
Air Flight / Common Carrier Accident 2,500
Family or Friend Transportation $1,500.00
Coverage outside USA As long as 51% of the coverage period is spent within USA
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions No pre-existing coverage
Additional Benefit
Interruption $2,500.00
Baggage Loss $500.00
Passport (Lost or damaged) $500.00
Students can choose to add coverage for their dependents. Please ask you school for more information.
18F-1 STUDENT REGULATIONS
All F-1 students must maintain legal status while studying in the United States. Among
other things, legal status is maintained by registering for full-time enrollment in the
program. Anyone that falls out-of-status will have their FI terminated and will have to
apply for reinstatement.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR F-1 STATUS
• Come to school and follow the attendance policies.
• Do not work off-campus. It is illegal.
• Apply for vacation – remember that you must have your vacation approved!
• Know when your I-20 expires.
• Know when your visa expires.
• Know when your passport expires.
• Don’t leave the U.S. without making sure that the second page of your I-20 is signed.
• Report any changes to your address or phone number at the Front Desk.
• Always let us know if you have a problem so we can make sure you don’t fall out of status.
19PROBATION
STUDENT: _________________________ SEVIS ID# ___________________
Open Hearts Language Academy is the entity responsible for sponsoring your F1 visa. In order for you to
maintain this visa you must follow school and immigration regulations and respect the four (4) following
conditions:
1. You must follow the school’s attendance policy
2. You must respect your financial obligations to the school
3. You must respect all school regulations and school officials
4. You must carry proper insurance coverage
The purpose of this letter is to inform you that you have been found in breach of one or several of the
conditions listed above and as such your F1 visa can be terminated by the sponsoring entity. However, we at
Open Hearts Language Academy recognize the difficulties of adaptations that foreign students sometimes
face upon their arrival in the United States. We also believe that all of our students should be given the
opportunity to redeem themselves.
Here are the options being offered to you:
A) Sign this probation letter with the understanding that if you are to be found again in breach of one of the
conditions listed above your F1 status will be terminated automatically with no further notice.
B) In order to better adapt and to get a fresh start, a change of venue might be necessary. Therefore, we will
allow you to transfer to another recognized IEP within a period of 14 calendar days. Keep in mind that
your transfer form can only be signed by Open Hearts Language Academy once your current financial
obligations to the school have been fulfilled.
Failure to signing this letter or to transfer to another recognized IEP within the allotted time will result in
your immediate F1 Status being terminated.
I, _______________________________ HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF THE CONDITION
OF MY PROBATION AND HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRANSFER TO
ANOTHER RECOGNIZED IEP.
I HAVE DECIDED TO EXERCISE OPTION (circle one) A B
________________________________ ________________________________
Student’s signature PDSO / DSO
________________________________
School Director
Signed in __________________________, Florida, on this _______ day of _____________, 20 ____
20STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
PROMOTION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
When a student challenges his/her promotion, the following procedures should be followed:
A. Teacher is responsible for making the recommendation to the Academic Director regarding possible
promotion to the next level, based on the student’s speaking/listening ability, reading/writing ability, as
well as grammar knowledge before recommending any changes.
B. After reviewing the teacher’s recommendation, the Academic Director will make the decision as to
whether a change should be made. The Academic Director might take other factors, such as student’s
goals and objectives, into consideration.
ALL CHANGES MUST BE MADE NO LATER THAN THE END OF THE FIRST WEEK OF THE NEW
SESSION. NO CHANGES WILL BE APPROVED AFTER THE FIRST WEEK.
GENERAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
Students who have an academic or persona concerns will have the opportunity to address the grievance through
the following procedure:
A. If the concern relates to classroom difficulties, the student will discuss the matter with the teacher of the
particular class. If not resolved, the student may appeal to the Academic Director. If the concern is still
not addressed to the student’s satisfaction through these means, he/she may appeal to the School
Director.
B. Students with concerns, which are very personal in nature, will be given the opportunity to counsel with
any Staff or Faculty members, who will address the matter to the School Director.
C. Concerns with organizational policy should be discussed with the School Director. If the concern is not
resolved, the student has the right to gain consultation with the President of Open Hearts Language
Academy.
D. The resolution of any conflicts is best solved as close to the source as possible. Students are urged to
contact their teachers to discuss concerns. If the conflict cannot be resolved with the teacher, the student
may meet with the Academic or the School Director. Upon receiving a formal complaint, the Academic
or the School Director, must respond and take appropriate action within 10 days. Students should move
from one level to another only if an acceptable resolution cannot be reached at the lower level. Anyone
retaliating against a student who files a complaint under this policy is subject to disciplinary action, up
to and including termination. The ultimate responsibility for the resolution of such complaints will
reside with the School Director.
DISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
Students who feel that they are subject to discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin,
age, sexual orientation, marital status or any category protected by civil statute or regulation or Sexual
Harassment are to contact the School Director office immediately to file a proper complaint.
Students at OHLA can submit a formal complaint by using one of the following forms available with the
School Director’s office:
a) Grievance Form (See Appendix 1)
b) Complaint Form (See appendix 2)
21GRIEVANCE FORM
Student Name: Campus
E-mail: ______________________________________ Phone #:
Description of Problem
Describe how you would like to see this resolved:
/ /
Please write your name here in lieu of signature Date
OFFICE USE ONLY
Received at OHLA by: Received
Comments:
Final Disposition:
22COMPLAINT FORM
This Form must be filled out to file an Equal Opportunity Complaint of Discrimination or Sexual Harassment that is based on
race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status or any category protected by civil statute or
regulation. In accordance with the principles of due process the complaint procedure is provided for the careful, systematic and
through review of complaints alleging unlawful discrimination by any Open Hearts Language Academy employee or student or
in any policy, program or standard, when the alleged discrimination is perceived to be based on the complainant’s race, color,
national or ethic origin, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, age, or marital status. In order to initiate a complaint of
discrimination, please contact and submit this form to the School Director.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE:
Name of person completing this form: ______________________________________________________________
Home Phone #: ________________________ Cell Phone #: ________________________
Address: _____________________ City ________________ State: ___________ Zip Code _____________
Circle One: Faculty Staff Student
I would like to request: _____ Formal investigation _____ Mediation
--.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-..-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.--.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.
I believe I have been mistreated on the basis of my:
(Please place a check mark next to those that apply)
Age _____ Race _____ Disability _____
Religion _____ Marital Status _____ National origin _____
Sexual Harassment _____ Gender _____ Sexual Orientation _____
Other (please specify) _____
Describe Events. Be as detailed as possible. (Attach additional sheets if necessary.)
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
List witness names and telephone numbers. (Attach additional sheets if necessary.)
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Describe how you would like to see this resolved:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________ ________________________
Signature Date
OFFICE USE ONLY
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-..-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.--.-.-.-.-.-
Date Received at OHLA: ____________________ Received by ___________________________
Comments:
Final Disposition:
23OPEN HEARTS LANGUAGE ACADEMY
REPEATING A LEVEL POLICY
Dear ___________________________
We are required by the US government to provide evidence that OHLA monitors patterns of
progression through the levels of the program to prove that students, progress throughout the
OHLA curriculum by achieving student learning outcomes as anticipated by the design of our
curriculum.
Our English program has 8 levels divided between General and Academic English
General English: Basic 1 / Basic 2 / Intermediate 1 / Intermediate 2
Academic English: Advanced 1 / Advanced 2 / Elite / Elite plus
Students are allowed to repeat only one (1) level of the General English as well as 1 level of
Academic English. Students who fail any level must repeat it automatically. However, students
are only allowed to repeat 1 level of General English as well as 1 level of Academic English.
Students failing any given level twice or two levels within either the General or Academic
English groups will be required to move on to the next level and to attend additional private
lessons (5 hrs. per week) for a period of 4 weeks to ensure that students can handle the new level.
Note that the cost for the private lesson will be the students' sole responsibility.
I, ______________________________, understand that if I fail this or any other level within
the current English program, I will have to move on to the next level, and attend private lessons
in addition to the classes I am enrolled in at my own expenses.
_______________________ _____________________________ ___/____/___
Student’s Signature Academic Director / Leader Signature Date
24WHAT BRICKELL HAS TO OFFER
Location
Our school is located in the Four Ambassador complex. The Four Ambassadors is considered a
landmark in South Florida, built in 1966 to 1968. While being at our location make yourself at
home in this fabulous bay front location, just one block away from Brickell Avenue, the “Wall
Street” and “Park Avenue” of Miami.
The Four Ambassadors offers:
● 1 Swimming Pool (South Pool)*
● Jacuzzis*
● Gym**
● 2 Restaurants
● Beauty Salon
● Poolside Bar
● Lobby Cafeteria
● Grocery Store
● Wireless Internet Access
● Marina
*Swimming Pool (South Pool ONLY) and Jacuzzis Available daily to On-Campus Residence Students.
For students not residing at the On-Campus Residence the swimming pool is only available during
weekdays (Monday to Friday).
**Gym: Available only to OHLA On-Campus Residence students
Banks
Within walking distance you will find all International and National banks. Friendly banks such
as Suntrust, Wells Fargo, Chase Bank, and Bank of America are always there to assist new
customers. To open a bank account you must comply with bank regulations, in most cases proof
of passport and driver identification is necessary.
Suntrust Bank Wells Fargo
777 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131 169 SW 8th Street
Miami, FL 33130 Miami, FL 33130
Chase Bank Bank of America
80 SW 8th Street 701 Brickell Ave
Miami, FL 33130 Miami, FL 33131
Consulates/Embassies
In the Financial District of Miami, which is where Open Hearts Language Academy is located
you will find most of the Consulates/Embassies of different countries.
For instance, within walking distance the following Consulates/Embassies are located
• Argentine Consulate. 800 Brickell Avenue #1. Miami, FL (305) 373-7794
• Netherlands Consulate. 701 Brickell Avenue. Miami, FL (786) 866-0480
• Consulate of Germany. 100 Biscayne Blvd #22. Miami, FL (305) 358-0290
• Consulate of Colombia. 280 Aragon Ave. Coral Gables, FL (305) 448-5558
25• Mexican Consulate. 5975 Sunset Drive. Miami, FL (786) 268-4900
• Consulate of Switzerland. 825 Brickell Bay Dr. Miami, FL (305) 377-6700
• Consulate of Brazil. 3150 SW 38th Ave, Miami, FL 33146 (305) 285-6200
For information on additional consulates in the Miami area go to www.yellowpages.com
Transportation
The Metrorail system is the easiest way to get to downtown. The Metrorail is an elevated train
system that runs from Dadeland Mall up to Hialeah and Okeechobee, with an extension being
built to a Palmetto station. This is a great option for going into town for high-traffic events,
concerts and of course to school.
At Government Center (downtown), the Metrorail links to the Metromover. The Metromover
runs in a loop around the city with stops near all major points of interest, as well as a north
branch to the Omni Shopping Center and a south branch to the financial district (Brickell). A
similar Light Rail project for Miami Beach is on the planning board. When taking the Metrorail
to come to Open Hearts Language Academy get off on the station of eight street. You will be
within walking distance to the school, walk east on eight street and pass Brickell Avenue, after
passing Brickell Avenue walk one block east and you will find four white towers that have the
same shape and form, they are named the “Four Ambassadors”. Welcome to Open Hearts
Language Academy, we are waiting for you in Tower 3, 18th floor!
Miami-Dade also has a Metrobus system that thoroughly covers the county from southern
Broward County to Key Largo, and from Miami Beach to west Miami-Dade. With over 600
buses and 82 routes, it connects to both the Metrorail and Metromover. Expansions are in the
works for Kendall and South Miami-Dade.
If you really want to travel away from the city, there's the Tri-Rail system. The Tri-Rail runs
from the airport as far north as West Palm Beach and Mangonia Park. If you want to take a day
trip into Boca Raton without the stress of driving the turnpike, Tri-Rail will give you that extra
time to relax. There is an intersection with the Metrorail north of the city. Whatever your travel
needs within Dade County, there's a public transportation solution. Take a day to explore all that
our city has to offer!
For route information go to http://www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/transit/metrorail.asp
Art and Culture
Art and Culture are part of the Floridian way of life. Just few stops in the Metromover or Trolley
transportation you can attend the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, commonly
called the Arsht Center. It is one of the largest performing arts centers in the US, which embraces
excellence, celebrates differences, renews the spirit and engages diverse communities through
the power of the performing arts. You can enjoy the latest Broadway shows, theater plays,
Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet, and New World Symphony.
Galleries and Museums play a major role in Miami. Artist from diverse nationalities expose their
paintings and creations to the public. There are several museums located in the different
counties, close to the school you will find The Historical Museum of Miami and the Miami Art
Museum located in the Downtown area.
26The famous Science Museum is located in Coconut Grove, just minutes away from the school
heading south.
Theater in Miami is growing in a fast pace, there are three places you can go to, and enjoy
theater, the City Theater in the Downtown area and the Jackie Gleason Center, home to the
biggest productions.
Useful information:
• Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (305) 949-6722
• Miami Performing Art Center (305) 372-7611
• Art Center Gallery (305) 674-8278
• Coral Gables Gallery (305) 444-4493
• Miami Art Museum (305) 375-3000
• Science Museum and Planetarium (305) 646-4200
• City Theater (305) 755-9401
• Jackie Gleason Theater (305) 673-7300
Shopping Areas
Brickell City Centre, located a few blocks from OHLA Miami, is a landmark of $1.05 billion,
4.9 million square-foot, mixed-use development. The center includes a 500,000-square-foot
luxury and premium retail center, two residential towers, REACH and RISE, a 352-room EAST
Miami hotel and two mid-rise office towers.
Brickell City Centre is one of the largest developments in the U.S. Sustainability elements
include the $30 million CLIMATE RIBBON™; a masterpiece of art and science, the elevated
trellis spans 150,000 square feet, connecting the project's three city blocks and acting as an
environmental management system.
Brickell City Centre also houses the CMX cinema offering new features to give guests an
innovative and VIP movie-going experience. CMX also features the trendy and exclusive CMX
Stone Sports making it a preferred entertainment destination.
The Shops at Mary Brickell Village is a lifestyle center located just two blocks from the school.
It has become a very popular downtown destination, bringing new stores and eateries to the
Brickell area.
Other shopping places nearby the school are the Downtown area and Bayside. In the Downtown
area you will have the chance to use your bargain skills and get better prices. In the Bayside Area
you will enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Bayside is known for its boat
tours to sightsee the houses of the famous and riches. Restaurants such as Hard Rock Cafe,
Bubba Gump are amongst the many restaurants in Bayside.
The downtown area and bayside are also within walking distance from the school, a short walk
will take you to these places. Keep in mind that like in any big city you must hold tight of your
personal belongings.
Besides the abovementioned shopping centers, there are an innumerable of Malls you can go to,
where you can find designer clothes and affordable clothing. Dadeland Mall is only a 15-minute
27ride in the Metrorail going south, Aventura Mall is a 30 to 40 minutes trip heading North East,
and Pembroke Lakes Mall is a 40 to 60 minute ride heading North West.
For more information
Brickell City Centre www.brickellcitycentre.com
Mary Brickell Village go to www.marybrickellvillage.com
Downtown go to www.downtownmiami.com
Bayside go to www.baysidemarketplace.com
28OPEN HEARTS LANGUAGE
ACADEMY ACHIEVEMENT SCALE Appendix
BAND CORE FUNCTIONAL ABILITY
LEVEL
LOW Pre-Basic Can understand basic instructions, questions and conversations, and is able to provide accurate information about
self and participate in simple dialogues using basic grammar structures accurately. Can comprehend lowercase and
capital letters in printed scripts, and can recognize and understand key sight words and word patterns. Able to write
personal information and short messages accurately applying capitalization and punctuation rules.
Basic 1 Can comprehend basic conversations and respond to commands in real life situations and to personal information
questions, and deliver a two-minute presentation using limited grammar structures. Able to recognize basic
vocabulary and extract information from a short reading to answer simple comprehension questions. Can write
brief messages using basic syntax and can fill out forms which request personal information.
Basic 2 Can understand short presentations, comprehend vocabulary in the context of everyday situations, and recognize
the parts of speech that signal differences between present, past and future. Can deliver a five-minute presentation
using simple grammar structures, and can respond to basic statements and questions without hesitation. Able to
comprehend short paragraphs on familiar topics, identify basic grammar structures from a text, and understand
unfamiliar lexis using context clues. Can write short paragraphs based on personal experience incorporating
grammar structures effectively.
INTERMEDIATE Intermediate Able to identify the main topic of a conversation, extract specific information from recorded messages, and identify
1 verb tenses and new vocabulary from a simple conversation. Can present solutions to everyday situations, ask for
information in person or by phone, and can deliver an eight-minute presentation using appropriate grammar and
vocabulary. Can interpret critical information from a text, understand the elements of a short story, and use context
clues to infer meaning. Is able to write a short essay with topic sentences, support, an introduction and conclusion.
Intermediate Able to comprehend face-to-face conversations spoken at normal speed, identify main ideas, and take notes from a
2 short lecture. Can deliver a ten-minute presentation based on research, use pronunciation, intonation and stress
accurately, and incorporate increased grammatical complexity into speech. Can identify the sequence of events and
the main ideas in a passage, scan a text for specific information, and comprehend short narratives. Able to
paraphrase information from secondary sources without plagiarizing, write creative, narrative, persuasive and
comparative essays, and personal and business letters.
ADVANCED Advanced 1 Can understand automated messages, news broadcasts, and informal conversational speech on various topics using
idiomatic expressions. Can deliver a twelve-minute presentation showing accurate use of grammar, vocabulary and
pronunciation, and is able to start, sustain and close a conversation, as well as provide organized and complete
answers to interview questions. Can identify key passages from a variety of texts, summarize reading passages, and
find and correct mistakes during peer reviews. Can produce a three-page essay and take notes from speeches and
lectures.
UNIVERSITY Advanced 2 Can understand conversations with native speakers without repetition of ideas and words, broadcast information
PREPARATION from different sources, and oral presentations and discussions using idioms without explicit explanations. Can
COURSES deliver a well-organized fifteen-minute presentation, debate, express and support opinions on various topics, and
orally summarize a reading, lecture or video. Can read critically, analyzing the author’s point of view through
inference, and can recognize and understand satire and irony. Able to produce and edit descriptive, narrative and
expository essays citing references appropriately.
Elite Able to understand the main ideas and specific details in oral presentations, discussions and broadcast information,
and can understand the subtleties in conversations with native speakers without clarification. Can deliver a properly
structured fifteen-minute presentation with minimal grammatical errors, debate, express and support opinions on
various topics using high-level vocabulary and various verb tenses, and can use pronunciation, stress, rhythm and
intonation patterns with accuracy. Can read critically, analyzing the author’s point of view by making inferences, and
can recognize and understand a variety of literary elements and genres. Able to use pre-writing techniques such as
brainstorming, clustering and outlining, and can produce and edit descriptive, narrative and expository essays using
MLA style to cite references appropriately.
Elite Plus Can make inferences and identify opinions based on tone, pace, and vocabulary; can also organize and synthesize
key details from lectures and videos. Able to understand academic, business, and scientific vocabulary used in
context without explicit explanation. Can speak using idioms and metaphors to effectively illustrate an analogy; can
give a properly structured, grammatically accurate, 15 min presentation with strong language and succinct delivery.
Can understand the author’s purpose while looking beyond the facts and data given. Can distinguish between
strong and weak arguments within a persuasive and argumentative compositions. Able to write cause-effect,
persuasive, comparative, expository and argumentative research papers using academic language accurately in APA
format.
TOEFL Able to identify main ideas, details, purpose and inference in academic lectures and conversations, and can deliver
well-developed and accurate verbal responses to prompts. Can comprehend and analyze expository, argumentative
and narrative texts, and is able to write different kinds of essays displaying coherence and consistent facility in the
use of the language.
IELTS Can comprehend lectures and conversations and is able to deliver well-developed and accurate verbal responses to
prompts. Able to comprehend and analyze texts from a variety of sources. Can describe visual information in writing
and can write discursive essays or defend opinions using a wide range of structures with only minor errors.BAND ELECTIVE FUNCTIONAL ABILITY
BASIC ACADEMIC Can use correct formatting for paragraphs, pre-writing techniques such as brainstorming, clustering and outlining, apply
WRITING capitalization, punctuation and spelling rules consistently, and develop a paragraph with topic, supporting and concluding sentences.
READING Can use a dictionary to verify the meaning of new vocabulary, scan articles to answer comprehension questions, choose the best
STRATEGIES ending for a short text, infer the meaning of new words from context, and understand organizational patterns.
LISTENING Can comprehend basic conversations, understand the use of intonation and stress in basic questions and requests, recognize parts of
COMPREHENSION speech that signal differences between present, past and future, make inferences about conversations, and listen for gist, detail,
function, purpose and attitude.
SPEAKING WITH Has developed awareness of the essential elements of pronunciation, can understand the use of intonation and stress in basic
FLUENCY questions and requests, participate in dialogues in response to statements and questions with fluency, and can deliver a five-minute
speech using accurate pronunciation.
GRAMMAR Can identify grammar structures in context heard in everyday situations, accurately use basic grammar structures in authentic
speech, deliver a five-minute presentation demonstrating accurate use of grammar, and identify basic grammar structures from a
text.
ACCENT Can accurately reproduce words containing certain long and short sounds, read a short paragraph emphasizing correct stress, use
REDUCTION the proper intonation when reading sentences and a list, and identify and convey the most important words in a sentence.
BUSINESS Can identify basic grammar structures in business conversations, use basic grammar correctly in different business contexts, read
ENGLISH and understand basic case studies, identify and understand new business vocabulary in short articles, and write a short email
responding to a problem at work.
VOCABULARY Can comprehend new vocabulary in the context of everyday situations, give a short oral context, definition, synonym or antonym for
new vocabulary, use word parts to understand new vocabulary in sentences and short paragraphs, and write a short paragraph with
topic, supporting and concluding sentences using new vocabulary.
INTERMEDIATE ACADEMIC Can use time words and clauses to express order of events, use pre-writing techniques such as brainstorming, clustering and
WRITING outlining, identify patterns of organization, and write descriptive, narrative, opinion, expository and process essays.
READING Able to identify main ideas and details in a text, take notes while reading a selection, interpret information from various texts,
STRATEGIES understand relationships between ideas in a text, and understand a writer’s intention and implied information in a text.
LISTENING Can comprehend lectures, natural speech in casual conversations, the meanings of new words from their context, and instructions
COMPREHENSION without clarification. Able to identify the details, topics and structure of lectures, listen for different purposes, and assess the
attitude of a speaker toward subject matter.
SPEAKING WITH Can engage in small talk about personal, local and world events, demonstrate the ability to organize thoughts and express ideas
FLUENCY coherently with appropriate language, interpret a speaker’s tone and attitude, tell a familiar story using rhythm, stress and
intonation appropriately, and deliver a five-minute presentation using accurate pronunciation and stress patterns.
GRAMMAR Able to identify verb tenses from a simple authentic conversation, ask and answer questions about events and topics in the present,
past and future, deliver an eight-minute presentation about a local or world event using a variety of grammar forms, and use proper
punctuation with clauses, conditionals and direct speech.
ACCENT Can identify and replicate vowel sounds, understand and reproduce strong and weak syllables, use different sounds to distinguish
REDUCTION between past, present and future time, use final sounds to distinguish between singular and plural words, and compare pairs of
sounds.
BUSINESS Can listen to business phone conversations and answer related questions accurately, conduct business interviews, prepare and
ENGLISH present an advertising campaign, read, understand and discuss case studies, write concise, accurate emails to business associates,
and write meeting minutes.
VOCABULARY Can understand key vocabulary words and idioms in presentations and discussions, provide oral contexts for new vocabulary, read
and complete sentences and short passages using new vocabulary and idiomatic expressions, and write a paragraph using new
vocabulary and idiomatic expressions appropriately.
ADVANCED ACADEMIC Can cite reference sources appropriately in research, demonstrate the ability to paraphrase, take notes from a listening selection
WRITING and write an essay using the notes taken, and write a response to a listening or reading selection by drawing on personal
experiences and referencing the selection.
READING Able to understand idiomatic expressions, provide organized and in-depth answers to questions, explain why and how things happen
STRATEGIES in a text, make inferences about a writer’s point of view or a character’s actions, and read critically, analyzing the author’s point of
view or purpose by making inferences.
LISTENING Can comprehend lectures, transition words and phrases in extended academic discourse, use a split-page format for note-taking, and
COMPREHENSION recognize lecture language that signals citations, paraphrases and quotations. Able to identify the topics and structure of lectures as
well as the details that support a main idea in a literary or informational text that is heard.
SPEAKING WITH Can participate in dialogues with fluency, mock negotiations and presentations using key vocabulary with accurate pronunciation
FLUENCY and stress patterns, and debates, challenging and presenting ideas. Able to interpret a speaker’s tone, purpose and attitude, and
deliver a twelve-minute speech with fluency and accuracy using rhythm, stress and intonation appropriately.
GRAMMAR Can give a twelve-minute presentation showing correct use of grammar structures, participate in conversations and debates fluently
and with proper grammar, accurately use complex structures for various purposes and in different contexts, and infer the meaning
of words and expressions from grammatical forms used in the context of a paragraph.
ACCENT Can listen for word stress and vowel clarity, distinguish between focus and content words, replicate contractions and reductions
REDUCTION accurately in speech, emphasize structure words appropriately in everyday speech, read a short story with past and present tense
verbs pronouncing the target verbs correctly, and identify final voiced and voiceless stops in conversation.
BUSINESS Able to listen to an interview of an international marketing professional and answer questions, role play interviews in three different
ENGLISH business situations, read and respond to three different case studies, write action minutes for a business meeting, and write an
accurate and effective sales letter.
VOCABULARY Can understand oral presentations and class discussions, use new vocabulary in class discussions and activities with accurate
pronunciation, stress and intonation, infer word meaning from word parts in an academic text, and write creative, persuasive,
expository and process essays using idiomatic expressions and new vocabulary words.You can also read
