Information for our Language School

At LAL we believe in the ideal formula, that the combination of ‘serious study’ and ‘serious fun’ bring about the best results in terms of progress in English. All our schools are committed to delivering the highest possible standards of quality tuition.

What’s your level of English?

False Beginner

No oral or grammatical accuracy or fluency.

Elementary

The student can communicate in a very simple and limited fashion.

Low Intermediate

The student can communicate in a limited number of the most familiar situations in which language is used in everyday life.

Intermediate

The student can communicate in a range of everyday situations which require largely predictable use of limited vocabulary and basic grammar.

Upper Intermediate

The student is able to handle the main structures of language with some confidence and demonstrates knowledge of an adequate range of vocabulary and uses appropriate communicative strategies

Advanced

The student is able to use the structures of the language with ease and fluency with minor lapses in accuracy and appropriateness.

The above serves as an indicative guide. Level descriptors may vary in different LAL schools.

Teaching Methodology FAQ

Will I be in the right class?

On your first morning at school you will be given a placement test. This will be used to assess your knowledge of English grammar. During this time you will also be taken for a short oral test with

a teacher. You will be put into a class according to the results of your grammar and oral tests.

How will I know if I am making progress?

Your teacher will monitor your progress throughout your time at the school. You will be given advice on ways of helping yourself to build confidence and make improvements. Your teacher will provide you with new language and skills for your level of English as well as helping you to achieve the level that is attainable during your stay at the school. If you are following a long-term programme regular tests will be provided in order for you to see what progress you are making. The combination of your motivation with your teacher’s expertise will guarantee positive results.

Is my teacher qualified?

Yes -our teachers come from very different educational backgrounds and bring a wide range of experience and expertise to their teaching. Most of all they share a passion for teaching international students to communicate more effectively in English. In all LAL destinations the selection of English teachers meets the requirements of the relevant accrediting bodies – English UK, CEA (USA), and ELTASA (South Africa).

Will my teacher correct my mistakes?

The teacher’s role is to coach you into gaining confidence and improving your ability to communicate. This means that there will be times when you make mistakes. You will be corrected and made aware of where you went wrong in order that you learn from your errors. However, it is not our policy to correct every little mistake you make as this can be de-motivating and lead to frustration.

Will I have the chance to use my English?

Increasing student confidence and competence are the most important aspects of our teaching. You will be given the opportunity to practise your new language skills within the classroom environment and during school activities and of course you will have lots of opportunities to practise your English with classmates and within your host family.

What will I do in class?

We use an eclectic style of teaching in our classes. You and your classmates will work with a variety of up to date materials with which you will study grammar and vocabulary, as well as the four main skills- listening, reading, writing and speaking. The material will be supplemented by discussions, roleplays and other ways of increasing your active language. We will also provide you with lots of practise of your English pronunciation and intonation.

How can I improve my English outside the classroom?

Your teacher(s) will not only give you regular homework to provide extra practice of work you have done in class, but they will also give you suggestions and tips on how to ‘help yourself’ to learn outside the class, such as visiting local pubs or bars or speaking to your host family.

Will I get a certificate?

At the end of your stay you will be presented with your LAL Certificate, which will indicate the studies you have done and recognises your achievement.

Our Classes

We place importance on the students’ learning environment and therefore keep our class sizes small. We also attempt to have an appropriate balance of nationalities in each class.

The maximum size for all students at LAL Fort Lauderdale is 15 students (exception: Minigroups with a maximum of 6 students). If a student is the only one enrolled in a particular course level, a suitable alternative course will be offered.

Our Teachers

LAL schools employ teachers with recognised teaching qualifications e.g.

UCLES Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA)
Trinity Certificate in teaching English to speakers of other languages
RSA or Trinity Diploma
Masters degree in ESOL, EFL or Applied Linguistics
post-graduate certificate of education (PGCE)

First Mondays

On the first Monday students are expected to arrive at LAL Fort Lauderdale’s reception at 08:00 with their passports, flight tickets, I-20 visa (if applicable) and vouchers. Host families will assist the student to find the best way to school. After testing, they are given a full orientation session describing the school, the programs and different locations around school. Students are introduced to LAL Fort Lauderdale staff members responsible for their welfare and leisure activities

Course books

We loan students a textbook appropriate for their level as part of their course, and recommend they bring a dictionary. Students will receive a Certificate of Attendance at the end of their course.

The following books are used: