ESL Student Handbook

ESL INSTITUTE

STUDENT HANDBOOK Updated 3/29/2018

THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE AT CHATTANOOGA

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE INSTITUTE

ESL Institute www.utc.edu/esl esl@utc.edu (423)425-4754 Hooper Hall 202A 615 McCallie Avenue, Dept. 1751 Chattanooga, Tennessee, 37403 USA

OUR MISSION The mission of the ESL Institute is to serve international students by developing their English proficiency and by assisting them in their transition to American culture. Within a supportive environment, the ESL Institute respects and promotes the individual needs and goals of each student, whether their goals include learning English for personal, business, or academic reasons.

ASSESSMENT PLACEMENT TEST You will be given a placement test before the term begins to determine your level of study.

PROGRESS TEST You may be given a progress test at any time chosen by your instructor.

CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT CLASS SCHEDULE Our schedule is Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

We do not have classes on Friday, so please schedule your personal appointments from Friday to Sunday. Six levels of proficiency are available (Levels 1-6). You will take a placement test at the beginning of the course to determine your level. A detailed class schedule will also be given to you during your orientation day.

MORNING CLASSES 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Reading and Writing Skills AFTERNOON CLASSES 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. Listening and Speaking Skills

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Throughout the course, you will receive grades for all your classes.

Your courses are not for credit.

Grades may be awarded for your homework assignments, essays, tests, quizzes, presentations, etc.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT Attendance, completion of all assignments, and the TOEFL score are required in order for you to receive a Certificate of Achievement at the end of your course.

You are in the United States to learn English. Your instructors have been trained to provide you with tools that can facilitate your English language learning.

LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION Your faculty and staff will only speak English to you. In the efforts to learn English, please speak and communicate only in English during and between classes, and while attending your field trips.

HOMEWORK You are required to complete all your assignments. Failure to turn in your assigned work can result in dismissal from the program. If you miss class because you are ill, it is your responsibility to contact your instructor to make up for any assignments you have missed.

TESTS You will be given a placement test, a progress test, and a TOEFL test. See Assessment for more details.

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TOEFL TEST At the end of your course, you will be given the paper-based TOEFL ITP test. This test consists of three parts: Reading Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, and Listening Comprehension.

It is an excellent tool to measure the progress that you have made throughout your course. It can also be used for admissions into undergraduate and graduate degree programs at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

ATTENDANCE 1. Attendance is required for completion of the course.

Absences are only allowed in the case of a documented medical or family emergency.

2. It is the student’s responsibility to document their absence so that it can be reviewed on a case by case basis. It is the student’s responsibility to notify their instructor of an absence and to request information on assignments and classwork they missed.

3. The student is still responsible for assignments, tests, and exams that occurred during their absence.

4. If a student is absent three times and each of these absences is unexcused, a written warning of attendance will be issued.

Any further absences may be reason for immediate dismissal from the program.

5. Students must come to class on time. Students will be considered absent if they are late more than 15 minutes.

6.

Being tardy three times will result in an unexcused absence.

Students are not allowed to leave early.

7. Students who fail to comply with the attendance policy are subject to being dismissed from the program. The decision to dismiss a student is made on a case-by-case basis and can be appealed within 14 days of the dismissal.

8. Dismissal from the program will result in the cancellation of the student’s I-20 and the termination of their immigration status.

For more details visit www.utc.edu/esl

PROGRESSION FROM LEVEL TO LEVEL In order to advance in level upon the completion of the term students are required to 1) take the TOEFL test 2) pass all sections of their course. Grades A, B, C, and D constitute a pass, grade F constitutes a fail. If a student fails to meet all academic and attendance requirements of the course, they will not advance and will be required to repeat their current level. If a student is absent for their TOEFL test and presents a medical note to excuse their absence, a decision will be made whether they should advance or not based solely on their final grades for each course section.

YOUR LEVEL AT UTC

DESCRIPTION

CERF LEVEL

OXFORD ONLINE PLACEMENT TEST

TARGET TOEFL ITP SCORES

TARGET TOEFL IBT SCORES

level 1

Beginner

Pre-A1

0

0-343

0-18

level 2

Elementary

A1

1-20

347-393

19-29

level 3

Pre-intermediate

A2

20-40

397-435

30-40

level 4

Intermediate

B1

40-60

437-487

41-57

level 5

Upperintermediate

B2

60-80

493-537

58-74

level 6

Advanced

C1

80-100

540-577

75-90

REQUIRED SCORES FOR UTC ADMISSION PURPOSES:

TOEFL ITP

TOEFL IBT

Undergraduate programs

500

61

Graduate programs

550

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HOW TO ACCESS UTC LEARN? 1. On the UTC website (utc.edu) at the top right corner, click on the UTC learn tab.

2.

Then, type in your UTC ID and password and click “login.�

3. You should now be in your UTC Learn page as seen below. From here, you can check grades, email your classmates, and upload assignments.

4. To sign out, simply press the power button in the top right corner.

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UTC LEARN UTC Learn (Blackboard) is the classroom learning management system for UTC. Your instructors will use it to share materials with you, set and collect assignments, send out announcements, compile word lists, etc.

WHAT’S MY PASSWORD?

HOW TO ACCESS YOUR UTC EMAIL 1. On the UTC website (utc.edu) at the top right corner, click on the My MocsNet tab.

Please visit www.utc.edu/pw to set up your password.

HOW DO I CHANGE MY PASSWORD? 1. Open your preferred web

2. Then, type in your UTC ID and password and click “login.”

browser to: www.utc.edu

2. Click on My MocsNet 3. Select ‘New User? Forgot/ Change Password’

4. You will be redirected to the Password Management website. Click on Change Your Password

5. Remember that your password must meet the following requirements: • Must include 1 Uppercase Letter • Must Include 1 Lowercase Letter • Must Include 1 Number • Must be at least 8 characters long.

3. Now, press the “Mocs Mail” button. This will usually be located on the left side of the webpage.

4.

You are now in your email. To Sign out, press the button in the top right corner. Then click the “sign out” button.

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

Subject Line

Title and first sentence of email.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

John Doe abc123@mocs.utc.edu

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HOW DO I MAKE A PAYMENT ONLINE 1. Log into your “My MocsNet” account the same way we did in “How to Access your UTC Email,” but this time, click on “Login to My MocsNet” as seen below.

2. Click on the “Money” tab near the top middle of the screen.

3. Now click on the “View My Account” link in the “Manage My Account” section in the middle of the screen.

HOW TO PAY Tuition is to be paid upon class registration. Insurance, housing and meal plan fees are also due at that time (if applicable).

A. Credit and debit card payments: You can pay online using your UTC Mocs account (Click on the Money tab, then in the Manage My Account select Go to My Account and make a payment).

UTC accepts the following cards: MasterCard, VISA, American Express and Discover. There is a convenience fee of 2.75% for all credit card payments. You can also pay through Flywire: https:// www.flywire.com/pay/utc. When transferring money from your account, your bank may charge a sending fee for their service.

B. Electronic check payments: If you have an American bank account, you can pay online using your UTC Mocs account (Click the Money tab, then in the Manage My Account select Go to My Account and make a payment). You will have to enter your Account Number and Routing Number. No extra fees apply.

C. Cash or check payments: You may pay in the Bursar’s Office (room 274 of the University Center) with cash or check payments only.

No extra fees apply.

Late fees may apply if you do not pay before your classes begin.

4. Then, click on the big green button that says “Make Payment.” This will take you through a few steps in order to complete your payment.

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STUDENTS WITH SCHOLARSHIPS If your fees are to be billed to an employer, government agency, foreign embassy, sponsor, etc. you should bring the necessary paperwork to the Bursar’s Office (e.g. the financial guarantee letter) or email it to the ESL Institute. You are responsible for any amount not collected from your sponsor. Please note there is a $5.00 billing fee. If the fee is not paid by the third party, the JOYCE BLEVINS student is responsible for the fee.

SELF-STUDY Make sure you come to class well-prepared. In order to make progress and perform well on your tests, you will need to complete all your assignments and revise the material regularly.

CHILDREN We love children at the ESL Institute, but children are not allowed in class for any reason. However, if your child is ill, or if you are having any other related child issues that may cause you to miss class, please contact the ESL Institute.

CHEATING/PLAGIARISM You are expected to do your own assignments and tests.

Cheating will result in immediate dismissal from the university.

FIELD TRIPS The UTC ESL Institute organizes field trips and other activities for international students. Your coordinator will provide the dates and itineraries.

END OF TERM EVENT At the end of each term, a special event is held for our students.

On that day, you will receive your certificate and academic transcript.

SOCIAL MEDIA & THE INTERNET Our Facebook page is ESL Institute at UTC. During each term, we take photos and post some of the activities, classes, and other happenings in the Institute. If you do not want your picture posted, please advise Anna Savary, ESL Coordinator (see contact details).

QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS ESL Institute at UTC is committed to providing high-quality educational experience to all ESL students. Feel free to contact us at esl@utc.edu if you have any concerns or would like to file a complaint. Additional information relating to UTC complaint or appeal procedures can be found here: http://www.utc.edu/student-development/resources/ complaint.php

DRESS CODE UTC ESL Institute does not have a formal dress code policy. However, we expect that students will dress modestly and appropriately for study.

REASONS FOR DISMISSAL Failure to comply with the program requirements may result in dismissal from the program. There are no refunds on tuition or fees if you are dismissed.

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OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION UTC ID Your UTC ID is a universal “user name” for many services such as email, web space, server storage, library databases, wireless access, computer lab logins, online registration, and classes. Your UTC ID is printed on your Mocs Card (student ID card). With your UTC ID, you can log into the UTC portal from the UTC For more information, please visit https://www.utc.edu/auxiliary-services/mocscard/

CAMPUS SHUTTLE Mocs Express (photo A) is a free shuttle that can get you around campus and to perimeter parking. A valid UTC ID gives you unlimited free access to downtown, Hamilton Place, Northgate, and every other CARTA route. For more information, please visit http:// www.utc.edu/auxiliary-services/parking/carta-shuttle.php

A

AQUATIC AND RECREATION CENTER (ARC) The ARC (photos B and C) is a state-of-the-art sports and wellness facility that offers students a wide variety of activities to choose from: basketball courts, indoor soccer courts, an indoor rock climbing tower, 1/8-mile indoor track, exercise space for indoor workouts, aerobics rooms, five lap lane swimming pool, and much more. For more information, please visit http://www.utc.edu/ campus-recreation/facilities/arc.php

UTC ALERT The new UTC ALERT system is designed to enhance and improve communication so that all members of The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus community can stay informed in the event of an emergency. The system will be used only for emergency contact purposes. Sign up at www.getrave.com/login/utc

PARKING A parking pass is available from the Parking Services Window in the Bursar’s Office, University Center room 274. For more information, please visit http://www.utc.edu/auxiliary-services/parking/parkinginfo.php

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION Our staff is here to support you and be an advocate for you during your time at UTC. If you should need assistance with anything or if you encounter any problems, please contact our office first so we are informed of any issues you may be having, and then we can proceed to find solutions. Our Student Advisors can answer any immigration and visa questions you might have during your period of study at UTC. 7

B

PERSONAL ITEMS Please keep your personal items (purse, backpack, phone, computer) with you at all times.

The ESL Institute is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES If you have a disability, illness, or other special circumstance which may require assistance or understanding, please advise the ESL Institute.

HEATH INFORMATION HEALTH INSURANCE AND IMMUNIZATIONS All international students are automatically enrolled in a student health plan on a hard waiver basis. Students are also required to submit proof of immunization prior to their arrival at UTC.

HEALTH SERVICES Health Services is located at the corner of Douglas and Fifth Street in McClellan Gymnasium, room 205. The entrance is directly in front of the rear of the UC (University Center). There are several signs in the area that will point you in the right direction. You can make an appointment by calling (423) 425-2266 Monday - Friday, but patients can also be seen without appointments for urgent issues.

INSURANCE ID CARDS Once your enrollment is processed, you will need a copy of your insurance ID card to go to the doctor or fill a prescription. Visit www. uhcsr.com to create your online account. Once you are logged in, you can print your card from there.

DOCTOR VISITS For the best benefits, schedule an appointment with a provider in the UnitedHealth network. To find in-network providers, log in to your account and click on Locate a Network Provider, or call 1-800-767-0700 (for assistance in another language ask for the language assistance line).

Be sure to bring a copy of your ID card to your appointment. There is an in-network office visit copay. Payment will be collected by your doctor’s office and is typically due on the day of your office visit. Your doctor’s office will file a claim with insurance, and once the claim has been processed your doctor’s office will bill you if you have a balance due.

C

LIBRARY 8

CONTACT INFO The English as a Second Language Institute ESL Institute Coordinator: Anna Savary Email: anna-savary@utc.edu Office Location: Hooper Hall 202A Office Phone Number: 423-425-4754

Center for Global Education

ANNA SAVARY

TAKEO SUZUKI

Executive Director: Takeo Suzuki Office Location: Hooper Hall 201A Email: takeo-suzuki@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-4735 Graphic Design and Marketing Coordinator: Amy Devan Office Location: Hooper Hall 201B Email: amy-devan@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-5923 Administrative Specialist: Joyce Blevins Office Location: Hooper Hall 203B Email: joyce-blevins@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-4735

Office of International Student Services PATRICIA LIN-STEADMAN

EUNICE DAVIS

Senior Coordinator of International Student and Scholar Services: Patricia Lin-Steadman Office Location: Hooper Hall 203C Email: patricia-lin-steadman@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-5936 Undergraduate International Student Advisor: Eunice Davis Office Location: Hooper Hall 202D Email: eunice-davis@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-2110

JOYCE BLEVINS

LORA COOK

Graduate International Student Advisor: Lora Cook Office Location: Hooper Hall 202C Email: lora-cook@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-4348

Office of Study Abroad Senior Study Abroad Program Advisor: Laura Livermore Office Location: Hooper Hall 202B Email: laura-livermore@utc.edu Office Phone Number: 423-425-4741

Emergency Campus Contact 24 Hour Emergency Number: UTC Campus Police 423-425-4357 (H-E-L-P) AMY DEVAN

UTCglobal 9

LAURA LIVERMORE

utc.edu/global

GoGlobal@utc.edu

UTC is a comprehensive, community-engaged campus of the University of Tennessee System.

UTC is an EEO/AA/Titles VI & IX/Section 504/ADA/ ADEA institution.

BARE INFINITIVE

SIMPLE PAST

PAST PARTICIPLE

BARE INFINITIVE

SIMPLE PAST

PAST PARTICIPLE

be

was/were

been

let

let

let

become

became

become

lie

lay

lain

begin

began

begun

lose

lost

lost

break

broke

broken

make

made

made

bring

brought

brought

mean

meant

meant

build

built

built

meet

met

met

buy

bought

bought

pay

paid

paid

catch

caught

caught

put

put

put

choose

chose

chosen

read

read

read

come

came

come

ride

rode

ridden

cost

cost

cost

ring

rang

rung

cut

cut

cut

rise

rose

risen

do

did

done

run

ran

run

dream

dreamt/dreamed

dreamt/dreamed

say

said

said

drink

drank

drunk

see

saw

seen

drive

drove

driven

sell

sold

sold

eat

ate

eaten

send

sent

sent

fall

fell

fallen

shoot

shot

shot

feel

felt

felt

show

showed

showed/shown

find

found

found

shut

shut

shut

fly

flew

flown

sing

sang

sung

forget

forgot

forgotten

sit

sat

sat

get

got

got

sleep

slept

slept

give

gave

given

speak

spoke

spoken

go

went

gone

spend

spent

spent

grow

grew

grown

stand

stood

stood

have

had

had

steal

stole

stolen

hear

heard

heard

swim

swam

swum

hide

hid

hid

take

took

taken

hit

hit

hit

teach

taught

taught

hold

held

held

tell

told

told

hurt

hurt

hurt

think

thought

thought

keep

kept

kept

throw

threw

thrown

know

knew

known

understand

understood

understood

lay

laid

laid

wear

wore

worn

learn

learnt/learned

learnt/learned

win

won

won

leave

left

left

write

wrote

written

New Housing Construction (2018) New Housing Construction (2018)

61

58

Tennis Courts Re-construction (2017)

Tennis Courts Re-construction (2017)

545 Oak Street 545 Oak Street

Alumni Affairs Alumni Affairs

Building

Building

729 McCallie

729 McCallie

59

Location Of The Center For Global Education Office