Teaching ESL Linguistics Certificate
Department of Linguistics | Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Calendar 2012 Summer
This certificate is for students seeking a basic introduction to principles and theory underlying current approaches to the teaching of English as a second language (TESL). The program emphasizes an understanding of linguistics and applied linguistics concepts. Successful completion of a 30 hour practicum in an adult ESL program is also required. The certificate requires at least four to five terms to complete and may be earned concurrently with an honours, major, extended minor or minor in linguistics.
While the certificate by itself is not a specific employment credential, it constitutes basic preparation for teaching English language skills to adult learners. The certificate also provides preparation for further applied linguistics and TESL studies. Those pursuing a long-term TESL career should plan to complete more advanced studies upon completion of the program. Monolingual students are strongly advised to complete at least two courses (six units) in a language other than English.
¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Requirements
¶¡ÏãÔ°AV is not automatic. All candidates must complete and submit the required application form (available from the department) with a statement of purpose and all other required documents prior to one of three deadlines (September 30, January 31, May 31). An interview with a designated linguistics department member is also required.
Prospective students may begin completing certificate courses prior to program admission. However, students are strongly advised to apply as soon as possible after completing LING 200, 220 and an upper division course, preferably in linguistics, with a minimum C- grade. Those who delay may be unable to enrol in the required courses at the desired time.
In addition to the University’s admission requirements, students must demonstrate excellent spoken and written English. This requirement is more stringent than the University’s minimum English language requirement. Students whose first language is not English should consult the department well in advance of applying. Oral communication skills will be assessed during the interview.
Applications are evaluated on merit. The department considers academic standing, communication skills as assessed in the interview, interests and motivations in the statement of purpose, and personal qualities. Priority is given to those enrolled in a ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV degree program.
Program Requirements
The program requires successful completion of 31 units as set out below, with a minimum 2.00 GPA calculated on grades in the specified required courses. Students also must complete a supervised practicum (LING 363) which includes 25 to 30 hours of experience in an adult ESL classroom.
Lower Division Requirements
Required Courses
Students complete all of
- LING 110-3 The Wonder of Words
- LING 200-3 Introduction to the Description of English Grammar
- LING 220-3 Introduction to Linguistics
- LING 221-3 Introduction to Phonetics and Phonology
and two of
- EDUC 220-3 Introduction to Educational Psychology
- LING 100-3 Communication and Language
- LING 160-3 Language, Culture, and Society
- LING 241-3 Languages of the World
Upper Division Requirements
Required Courses
Students complete all of
- EDUC 467-4 Curriculum and Instruction in Teaching English as an Additional Language
- LING 360-3 Linguistics and Language Teaching
- LING 362-3 English as a Second Language: Theory
- LING 363-3 English as a Second Language: Practice
Recommended Courses
- EDUC 468-4 Sociocultural Perspectives on Language, Cognitive Development and EAL Instruction
- LING 350-3 First Language Acquisition
For calendar inquiries and technical problems, contact calendar-sfu@sfu.ca | Calendar changes and corrections