From Orange County Library System
Summary
The Orange County Library System offers free English as a Second Language classes, conversation groups and online learning resources for learners at all skill levels. Apopka's North Orange Branch will host a September 1 open house introducing new ESL instructor Emily Walker.
Learning English can open doors to new opportunities, and the Orange County Library System (OCLS) helps language learners develop those skills through free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, conversation groups and online learning resources.
To promote classes and introduce the library’s newest ESL instructor, Emily Walker, Apopka’s North Orange Branch (1211 E. Semoran Blvd.) hosts Meet the Instructor – Open House for ESL Learners on Tuesday, September 1 at 3 p.m.
Walker brings extensive experience and a passion for helping learners build confidence in their English language skills. A graduate of the University of Central Florida, she studied English and creative writing and discovered her love of teaching while taking a Korean language course her senior year. After graduation, she began training as a teacher at a language school in Celebration.
“Language learners need to be in class and have hands-on experience with the language,” said Walker. “I love connecting with students from other countries and am excited to be able to offer the materials and instruction people need for free at the library.”
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Walker will teach classes at three library locations. Additional open houses will take place at Hiawassee Branch (7391 W. Colonial Dr, Orlando) on Thursday, September 3 at 4:30 p.m. and Fairview Shores Branch (902 Lee Rd, Suite 26, Orlando) on Monday, September 14 at 4:30 p.m.
The library’s ESL courses support learners at every stage of their English-learning journey.
Basic English classes help students develop foundational vocabulary and basic grammar, making them ideal for learners with little to no prior English language skills.
Speaking Clearly and Writing Clearly classes are offered at beginner and intermediate levels and focus on listening comprehension, pronunciation, grammar and written communication.
Reading Clearly helps participants strengthen reading skills and learn strategies to increase comprehension. Students with a basic understanding of English are encouraged to participate, even if they have limited speaking skills.
For those looking to build confidence through conversation, English Conversation Hour provides a relaxed, low-pressure environment where learners can practice speaking and listening skills with others.
Course listings and schedules for Fairview Shores, Hiawassee and North Orange branches are available online. Registration is required for some courses and is available online or by calling 407-835-7323.
In addition to in-person classes, language learners can continue practicing independently with the library’s free online resources, including Mango Languages, Rocket Languages and Pronunciator. Learn more at https://guides.ocls.org/englishocls/libraryresources.
Those interested in exploring library resources are encouraged to register for the upcoming Open Lab – Learn a Language: The Orientation on Friday, September 11 at 10:30 a.m. This online class introduces exciting library resources, explores classes that match participants’ goals and highlights free programs you can use to practice and master a new language. An Open Lab – Learn a Language “La Orientación” course will also be offered in Spanish on Friday, September 11 at 3 p.m.
Looking to learn a language other than English? The library also offers virtual and in-person Spanish and French classes, along with online resources that support learning and practice in dozens of additional languages. More information is available at https://guides.ocls.org/language.
Key Points
- Free ESL classes: OCLS offers English language instruction at no cost to learners.
- New instructor in Apopka: North Orange Branch will introduce ESL instructor Emily Walker at a September 1 open house.
- Classes for all levels: Courses cover basic English, speaking, writing, reading, pronunciation and comprehension.
- Practice through conversation: English Conversation Hour provides a relaxed setting for learners to build speaking and listening confidence.
- Online resources available: Mango Languages, Rocket Languages, Pronunciator and other free resources allow learners to continue practicing outside the classroom.
