Greetings from the English Language Program!
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Letter from the Director
Greetings! As usual, our area is full of activity. As some programs are winding down and preparing for fall, the English Language Program is in full swing. This month we bid farewell to our students in the Explore Program and will welcome students for the July and August Intensive programs. We will also be saying good-bye to our friend Dan Fuller. Dan, a teacher from Yang Guan Qing School in Beijing China, has been immersing himself in our full-time program for the last few months as he prepares to offer The University of Winnipeg, English Language Program curriculum to his students in Beijing. This is the first partnership of its kind for the English Language Program and we are very excited to see how it develops – good luck Dan!
Now, two BIG announcements! Firstly, the English Language Program is very pleased to welcome the students, community members, partners and staff of The Global Welcome Centre to our area. The Centre provides support to both prospective and current immigrant and refugee students while promoting multiculturalism and diversity at The University of Winnipeg. We have recently hired Niromi Hewawellalage as Administrative Assistant and have appointed Liz Choi as Acting Supervisor of the Centre. For more information on programs and services, please call the centre at 258-2929 or visit the website http://globalwelcomecentre.uwinnipeg.ca
The other big announcement is that the English Language Program is moving. After many years at the Massey Building, we are moving to the main campus of The University of Winnipeg for fall, 2009. We are very pleased with this development and welcome the opportunity it will provide for both our students and staff. We will have more information as details of the move are finalized.
Finally, summer has arrived in Winnipeg. The streets have come alive and there are many things to do around the city. I hope everyone can get out and enjoy the beautiful weather! See you in the fall.
Tammy Sigurdur
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Your English Language Program Team
Tammy Sigurdur- Director
t.sigurdur@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1160
Jessica Burleson- Academic Coordinator
j.burleson@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1162
Karin Krueger- Program Assistant, Academic
ke.krueger@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1163
Wendy Abendschoen- Business and Marketing Manager
w.abendschoen@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1171
Carey Roess- Program Assistant, Business
c.roess@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1703
Adriana Glikman- Student Life Coordinator
a.glikman@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.6631
Ingrid Willey- Assistant Host Family Coordinator
i.willey@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1702
Julie Sakuta- Socio-Cultural & Language Partner Coordinator
j.sakuta@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1151
Eriko Isobe-Smith- Short-Term Program Coordinator (July Intensive Program)
e.isobe-smith@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1817
Liz Choi- ESL/EAL Teacher Certificate Program & Part-Time EAL Coordinator
a.choi@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1141
Paul Vieira- English for Specific Purposes (ESP) Coordinator
p.vieira@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.6636
Kathleen Clarke- English for Specific Purposes In-House Trainer
k.clarke@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1818
Carolynn Smallwood- Program Assistant for EAL, TCP, ESP & Part-Time EAL Programs
c.smallwood@uwinnipeg.ca 204.982.1816
Niromi Hewawellalage- Administrative Assistant, The Global Welcome Centre
nn.hewawellalage@uwinnipeg.ca 204.258.2946
The ELP department offers a variety of programs:
- Full-time English Language Program
- Part-time English Language classes
- The Global Welcome Centre
- English for Specific Purposes Program
- ESL Teacher Certificate Program
- Customized ESL programs for groups
Please visit http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-information for more information or e-mail infoelp@uwinnipeg.ca |
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The English for Specific Purposes (ESP) Program
UWinnipeg Pilots Communication Coaching
A new initiative for internationally educated professionals
WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg’s English for Specific Purposes (ESP) Program is piloting a new initiative, where Communication Coaches are dispatched to local companies to work intensively with foreign-trained skilled professionals in the areas of cultural competence, writing and oral communication. Currently the ESP pilot program is working with the engineering consulting firm Genivar and IT firm Greenridge, and the results have been positive.
Talented Source
Internationally educated professionals (IEP) are an important source of talent currently filling skilled labour shortages in many sectors, especially engineering and IT. Employers recognize that the technical expertise of IEP is often exceptional, yet the complex challenges of workplace culture and communication can be costly and time consuming.
Everybody Wins
"Through our language program for IEP we discovered that many who are already working in their field are struggling with day to day business correspondence and report writing”, said Paul Vieira, ESP Program Coordinator. “Senior managers often put aside their own work to edit the report writing of their foreign trained employees. To make work more efficient, the Communication Coach provides an invaluable service to the company and personalized language enhancement for the employees and everybody wins.”
"GENIVAR is excited by the opportunity to work with the Communication Coaching Pilot Program. We have an ever-growing number of internationally-educated engineering professionals,” said Bill Brant, Vice President, Manitoba Division GENIVAR. “Those who are involved are benefiting greatly from the program.”
Effective
Coaches spend two hours per week in workshops with a maximum of five employees needing to hone their communication skills at the workplace. The coach also gives each participant 1.5 hours of editing throughout the week, allowing individuals to submit their reports, memos, emails and other business correspondence for feedback. This helps the client improve their writing skills and makes their work more efficient. Communication Coaching is an effective and cost efficient solution to meet the needs of both IEP’s and companies in the engineering and IT industries. For more information on the pilot project, please visit http://esp.uwinnipeg.ca/ or email Paul Vieira at p.vieira@uwinnipeg.ca.
For general enquiries contact Carolynn Smallwood, Program Assistant, at 204.982.1816 or c.smallwood@uwinnipeg.ca or contact Paul Vieira, Program Coordinator, at p.vieira@uwinnipeg.ca or 204.982.6636. |
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ESL Teacher Certificate Program (ESLTCP/EALTCP)
Full-time EALTCP starts on September 22, 2009. The Full-time program fills up quickly, so please check our web site or contact us by telephone or e-mail for more information if you are interested in the fall session of EALTCP. You can download and print the application form from our web site.
Part-time TCP is scheduled to start at the same time as the full-time program. There is a five-year limit for you to complete the part-time program: hypothetically, you could take two terms or up to five years to complete the program. This is a flexible program designed to meet your needs and schedule. You can download and print the application form from our web site.
For general enquiries contact Carolynn Smallwood at 204.982.1816 or c.smallwood@uwinnipeg.ca or Liz Choi, Program Coordinator, at a.choi@uwinnipeg.ca Visit http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-esltcp for more information. |
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Global Welcome Centre
The Global Welcome Centre, established in September 2007, assists newcomer immigrants to Manitoba with their integration into post-secondary education. If you are an immigrant looking to pursue a university degree or diploma, visit us at 511 Ellice Ave, room 1E04 or contact us at: Phone: 204.258.2929 or 258.2946 Fax: 204.786.7803
Email: globalwelcomecentre@uwinnipeg.ca
Our Objectives:
- To ensure newcomers have a valuable and successful experience while attending The University of Winnipeg.
- To assist immigrant students at The University of Winnipeg and the Collegiate.
- To assist immigrant high school students with their transition to University.
- To provide academic advice to immigrants and refugees.
- To promote multiculturalism and diversity at The University of Winnipeg.
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For more information visit: www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/gwc-index |
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Full-Time English Language Program (ELP)
The Foundations English Stream
(Basic to mid-intermediate)
The Foundations English Stream focuses on integrated skills. The morning classes have a strong emphasis on oral communication, vocabulary acquisition, and grammatical development, which are integral for linguistic progress. Afternoon classes focus on grammatical structures and reading skills.
The General English Stream
(High-intermediate to low-advanced)
The General English Stream is suitable if you wish to develop your English language skills for personal or professional reasons. Morning classes focus strongly on developing fluency in speaking and listening as well as grammar, reading, and writing.
In the afternoon, students participate in a variety of seminars such as Business English, TOEFL Preparation, Conversation, Writing, and Listening and Pronunciation. Seminars vary from term to term. Seminars also vary, depending on the student's level of proficiency in English.
The Academic English Stream
(High-intermediate to advanced)
The Academic English Stream is suitable if you are interested in preparing for academic studies in English-medium institutions, either in High School, University or College. This program focuses on developing the skills that students require to be successful in an academic setting.
Students will develop all four language areas (listening, reading, writing and speaking), in order to apply them in an academic setting. Students will improve their ability to take notes, read academic materials, write essays, and give presentations. Students will also learn vocabulary they will use in University or College courses. In the highest level of the program, students will have the opportunity to begin their university studies with the aide and support of an adjunct class.
For more information on the full-time ELP program please visit http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-14week or email infoelp@uwinnipeg.ca |
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ELP on Facebook
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We are always putting new pictures of the ELP socio-cultural activities online. If you are a facebook member join The University of Winnipeg- English Language Program (ELP) group. There are new pictures from the baseball game, the international dinner, our mid-term trip, and The Winnipeg Art Gallery. Check them out!
Click on the link below to see what it looks like:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=46057693066 |
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July Intensive Program
For more than thirty years, The University of Winnipeg has offered international students a variety of English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs. One of our programs we offer is the July Intensive Program that is a month-long program for students who want a short, intensive language program. On July 6th, we welcomed over 50 students to this program. Students have come from Brazil, China, Colombia, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Poland, and Saudi Arabia to study. We welcome all of you to The University of Winnipeg! Have a wonderful month!
These programs promote high academic standards as students work to increase their proficiency in English and to further their careers or education. Besides teaching the four main language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, these programs also encourage learning through participation in cultural and social events.
For more information about the July Intensive Program please visit www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-intensive or email infoelp@uwinnipeg.ca |
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Homestay Program
My own experience far away from home...
My name is Nayef and I’m from Jordan. I want to talk about my homestay family. It is a great experience because from it I can practice my English and be able to learn the Canadian culture and social life.
When I arrived to Canada, I stayed in another temporary home because I was thinking I would go into Residences. It’s closer to the university but then I changed my mind and decided to try a homestay. And now I am still living happy with my homestay family after 9 months!
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It was really hard for me the first day I came to Canada. I didn’t know anyone in this new place. I came a week late. I just stayed at my temporary home and went out a little bit to see Winnipeg by myself without knowing anyone. After a while I made lots of friends. Almost each day I go out with them or meet to study at the library. I have a new best friend Sohei, from Japan, who is now living also in my homestay. We hang out together a lot.
My advice to every student that wants to come to Canada is to come and experience life in homestay. |
My homestay parents, Brenda and Jack, are very nice. They always advise me and teach me how I can communicate better with other people. Moreover, my homestay mom cooks delicious food! When they want to go to the supermarket, they ask if we want anything special to eat so they can buy it.
My room is very comfortable and they also take me to places around the city. I love sports. Before I went to live with my host family they had no sports channel on their TV. I asked my homestay if they would get a sport channel for me to watch the games. I love soccer. They did this for me. After being there for a few more months they offered me a TV and DVD player for my bedroom!
Thanks Nayef, Brenda and Jack!
For more information or if you have any questions please contact Adriana or Ingrid.
Visit www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-homestay to read more! |
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McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Student Residence
| During the fall, full-time students in the English Language Program are invited to experience living in student residence. Your dorm room at McFeetors Hall would be an air-conditioned room furnished with a single bed, desk, chair, lamp, wardrobe, and a private bathroom (bedding/linens not included). The meal plan will feature fresh, organic, and culturally sensitive food that will satisfy the needs of all the students. There is free internet in the lounges and a team of Resident Assistants that will make your stay enjoyable. |
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Visit http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/cms-filesystem-action/pdfs/elp/homestay-mcfeetors.pdf more for information and fees. |
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ELP Student Article
By Ahmed Ben Mosbah
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When I was young, soccer was my favourite sport. I used to watched, play and read soccer magazines. I always used to dream of becoming a professional soccer player. Everybody I lived with and anyone around me loved soccer.
Another reason would be that I could play soccer very well. In fact, I was a good player. I played on my school team in primary and middle school.
Of all the sports I played soccer was the one I can really say I was very good at playing. When I have stress and frustration soccer also helps me to relax and be confident. For instance, after doing assignments or studying all day long I feel tired and exhausted. However, when I have fun with the ball by kicking it against the wall or trying to do some tricks, all of my tiredness and exhaustion dies out. |
I not only like playing soccer but also enjoy watching soccer games on t.v.. Soccer is very popular all over the world nowadays; especially during the world cup season. I am so excited to watch the games where many famous teams play such as: Brazil, Germany, England, Spain, Holland, etc. My favourite team is Italia. I am so happy whenever Italia wins but I get angry if they lose.
All in all, soccer is a part of my life and it means a lot to me. Even though I don’t play it as often as I used to I like to watch it on the television. It will always be my favourite sport. I love soccer so much! |
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ELP Short-term Programs
Chonnam Farewell
We said farewell to ten students from Chonnam University on June 19th. This group of students studied with us for 14 weeks. We were happy you came to The University of Winnipeg. Good luck in all your future endeavours!
Explore Program
We also said goodbye to the students from the Explore program on June 26th. At the end of May, 52 students from Quebec came to study English at The University of Winnipeg. It was an intensive 5-week program with classes Monday to Friday as well as four activities per week. Below are the class photos from the Explore program. Good luck to all of you!
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Full-Time ELP Socio-Cultural News
Summertime is a great time to enjoy the socio-cultural activities offered through the ELP! We like to go outside and explore in and around the city during the summer months. We went to Assiniboine Zoo to see the animals last month and then played some sports in the park. On Friday June 5th we went and watched a Goldeyes Baseball game. The Goldeyes won and the best part was that Daniel (from Korea) got a baseball for a souvenir!
Every term we hold an International Dinner. On June 11th we had a lot of fun and tasted food from around the world. Students in the Explore program (from Quebec) also joined us for this evening. Students prepared presentations that were enjoyed by everyone who attended. The Explore students sang songs, played a game, and even danced. Steven, from China, played a chopstick game and Sharon Muldrew (an instructor in the ELP) was the fastest chopstick handler. Way to go Sharon! Sohei and Mako, from Japan, prepared cards for each table and we played a fun game that matches pictures with sentences. You have to be really fast during that game! Ansun and Gahee, from Korea, taught us a game like “hackysack”, called “Jae gi cha gi.” What a fun evening! Thank-you to all that attended.
Every summer “The Red River Exhibition” comes to Winnipeg. We visited the Ex on June 19th and went on rides, ate cotton candy, saw animals, watched the dog show, and much more. Gloria and Armando tasted some food from a cooking show and they said it was delicious!
We still have many more activities planned for the next few months. We will visit Oak Hammock Marsh in July, go roller-skating, attend “Ballet in the Park”, and go to Grand Beach before this term is over.
If you have any questions or stories about the socio-cultural activities contact Julie Sakuta, Socio-Cultural Coordinator, at j.sakuta@uwinnipeg.ca or 204.982.1151. |
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Language Partner Program
First annual “Language Partner & Host Family Appreciation BBQ”
If you have been a language partner at The U of Winnipeg or hosted an ELP student in the past year you are invited to the Appreciation BBQ to be held on July 14th at Vimy Ridge Park (Portage Avenue and Home Street).
Join us between 5:30-8:30pm for dinner & dessert, to play some games, and to meet other partners and families. Even if your partner has left our program, you are still welcome to attend. Bring a chair and a drink and we’ll bring the rest. The more the merrier!
Please RSVP to Julie at j.sakuta@uwinnipeg.ca or Adriana Glikman at a.glikman@uwinnipeg.ca if you would like to attend. Hope to see you there!
If YOU would like to be a language partner or know someone who would please contact j.sakuta@uwinnipeg.ca or 204.982.1151 or visit http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-partner |
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Part-Time English Language Program (PT EAL)
The next session starts the week of September 15th! If you are an EAL (ESL) student and are looking for extra help in English, please explore our part-time EAL (ESL) course offerings. In addition to our standard PT EAL classes (such as “Basic Grammar and Writing”), we now offer academic-focused classes for EAL (ESL) University students, such as "Grammar and Academic Essay Writing," for example. Our PT EAL program includes classes on grammar, writing, public speaking, and many more.
Visit http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/elp-pt-esl for more information. Contact information: Carolynn Smallwood, Program Assistant, at 204.982.1816 or c.smallwood@uwinnipeg.ca or Liz Choi, Program Coordinator, at 204.982.1141 or a.choi@uwinnipeg.ca |
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International Languages Program (ILP)
The Division of Continuing Education will now be offering The International Languages Program. The next session starts in September 2009. ILP classes are not counted towards credit and are open to anyone. If you are interested in learning a different language and do not want to worry about your GPA, ILP is the right program for you to join! Contact the Division of Continuing Education Registration Office at 982-6633 for details on fall ILP courses. |
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Did you know?
Written by J. Sakuta
| Every term students in the Full-time English Language Program are offered to participate in a mid-term trip. Over the spring break we traveled to “Minaki Yurt Adventures” in Ontario and had an amazing time! Cheri (an ELP instructor), myself and 9 students were gone for three days and enjoyed many activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and ziplining. |
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When we arrived at MYA (Minaki Yurt Adventures) we were greeted by our wonderful hosts; Nadene and Jordy McBride. Nadene is, in my opinion, a gourmet cook and we enjoyed three days of delicious, healthy meals that were always followed by a homemade dessert and coffee and tea. Jordy was our guide and took us on the outings and explained everything to us about the equipment we were using, the proper way to paddle, or how to rock climb and zipline. When we were hiking through the forest he would teach us the history of the land and show us many wild flowers and different kinds of trees.
The surroundings around MYA are beautiful! It is located in a boreal forest and is filled with huge trees, wonderful rock formations, wild flowers, clear lakes, and blue sky. At night time the stars are so bright and vivid it feels like you can reach out and touch one. It is truly one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. One of my favourite memories is walking down to the water when it was dark and seeing the thousands of fireflies. It was an incredible sight!
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Cheri brought her guitar to MYA. We would sit around the campfire each evening and learn new songs from Canada, Japan, Korea and Mexico. We were very lucky to have Cheri join us on this trip. Her knowledge about the outdoors and the energy she brought to the group was amazing. Thank you to all the students who attended and also to Nadene and Jordy at Minaki Yurt Adventures! I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did! Visit www.minaki.ca for more information.
Stay tuned for information about the fall mid-term trip... |
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We hope you have enjoyed reading our e-newsletter.
If you have an article or story you would like to share with us please email j.sakuta@uwinnipeg.ca
Thank-you!
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