General English
Our General English Classes run five days per week, in the afternoon and the morning. We have four different levels, so there is a class to suit every learner:
Level 1A
This level is for those learners who have virtually no English language at all. Learners at this level may not be literate in their own languages either. We use specialist techniques to support students in these classes to develop the skills necessary to become great English language students. We support students to develop a good English vocabulary and listening with understanding. We also introduce writing skills in this level. Students at this level will often stay in 1A for two semesters.
Level 1B
Building on skills learned in 1A, learners in this level will develop their writing skills further, learning how to use the vocabulary they have built. High-frequency words, as well as special-interest words such as their street names, their occupations etc., are learned at this level. Confidence in practising English out and about is developed by these students. Students at this level will often stay in 2A for two semesters.
Level 2A
By this level, learners are usually able to hold a simple conversation in English. We build on everything they have learned so far, focusing on becoming competent in dealing with daily life issues. Each level building on the last.
Level 2B
Once a student enters 2B, they are generally feeling much more confident with their English language skills, and are practicing reading and writing to build their fluency. Once students complete this level, they may choose to continue their English study with a more directed focus, such as English for a specific occupation. They may move into our English for Work classes, helping to prepare them for the workforce.
How to choose the right class
Before being placed in a class level, each learner is individually assessed, and the correct class level is decided. It is not necessary for a student to progress through every level. If the student is re-assessed at a higher level at any time, they may be moved to the next level – it is not necessary to “complete” a level if the student shows that they are a very fast learner.
We use an individualised approach to ensure that all learners are appropriately placed in our General English classes, at a level that best suits them. There are no set time frames on how long a student remains at each level – learners progress through the levels at different rates depending on their individualised needs. Our teachers make sure they take the time needed to get to know every one of their students personally, to ensure that we are appropriately responding to their educational needs and aspirations.
Enrolments for General English are open all year round, and students may start classes at any time.
All our classes are free of charge for New Zealand residents and citizens.
To enrol – contact us today at office@kiwiclass.org.nz
