English Programs in Chicago, Illinois

BIR Training Center, Chicago:
Based in Chicago with three central locations, BIR is a career and language learning center dedicated to teaching marketable skills and improving the oral and written communication of students from Chicagoland's diverse neighborhoods as well as from over 25 countries across the globe. We provide fast, focused, flexible training with financial aid opportunities for career seekers. Students studying on foreign student visas receive visa guidance in all issues ranging from application to practical training and school transfer. We are dedicated to providing our students the best education possible. BIR is respected as a provider of quality education due to our experienced instructors, varied course selection, multilingual staff, and unparalleled student services. If you are in search of an English Language Program in the United States, look no further. BIR offers international students excellent academic opportunities in Chicago, one of the greatest cities in the world.

ESL Program:
BIR’s English Language Programs help students acquire the oral fluency and written communication skills necessary to succeed in academics, the workplace, and everyday life. The English Language Introductory Program provides a solid foundation in basic communication. The English Language Bridge Program moves students beyond basic communication to using English in authentic academic and workplace settings. Classes are small, with a student to teacher ratio of 15:1. Instructors are highly trained professionals with advanced degrees in linguistics, education, or a related field. BIR offers a friendly atmosphere with facilities that are modern, comfortable and conveniently located.

Assessment:
Entering students receive a professional language evaluation and are placed into the appropriate program of study. BIR offers English Language programs that serve the needs of students at all levels of proficiency. Programs include lectures, workshops, and independent learning, as well as individual and small-group tutoring.

Lectures:
Each seven-week course includes two weekly lectures that focus intensively on one of the English language skill areas: oral communication, reading, or writing. BIR’s blended learning approach integrates vocabulary development, grammar study and overall fluency into the structure of the lectures. Students acquire knowledge of formal as well as colloquial English in order to prepare equally for academic, professional and social settings. Conversation addresses listening and speaking. Reading helps students develop vital reading skills. Writing teaches composition from sentence to essay. Vocabulary development and grammar are addressed across all classes and levels. Upon completion of the program, students will have a sound command of formal and colloquial English and be prepared for university studies, professional careers, and daily life.

Workshops:
Lectures are complemented by workshops that provide students with experiential opportunities to use English language skills in practical ways. Students enroll in two workshops each week and choose from over 70 topics in a variety of fields. Workshops are an ideal way for students to expand their knowledge of culture as well as moving along the path toward familiarity with specialized contexts. Students who complete three workshops in one of BIR’s English for Specific Purposes Streams can earn a certificate in the following specialties: Business English, Medical English, English for Hospitality & Tourism, Computer Technology, Journalism and Advanced Test Preparation.

Summer Program (July – August):
Chicago is one of the world’s most exciting cities, with a rich heritage and vibrant cultural life. The BIR Summer program offers a chance to explore Chicago’s fascinating neighborhoods and attractions while immersing yourself in the English language. The program covers diverse aspects of American culture, sports and history, allowing you to choose classes and special events that suit your own unique interests. Previous offerings have included Haunted Chicago, Baseball, Classic American Film, and many other intriguing topics, as well as a wide array of fun and interesting field trips.

TOEFL, the Gateway to Your Future:
The TOEFL Internet Based Test (iBT®) is one of today’s most popular tools for measuring your English fluency. A strong score on the exam is a sign to universities and employers that you are ready to succeed in a fast-paced English speaking environment.

TOEFL preparation at BIR consists of 6 modules that offer you a pathway to a high score and assist you in your academic and professional pursuits. The 6 modules are: Gateway, Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking and Overall. Each module includes lectures, practice exams, workshops, study groups and access to a drop-in Study Hall.

Students can choose one of three paths to complete the Test Preparation Program:

* The Standard Path has one module per term and includes up to two terms of vacations.
* The Accelerated Path has one module per term and is 45 weeks of continuous study.
* The Intensive Path has two modules per term and is 22 weeks of continuous study. This is the quickest way to complete the program. The Intensive class requires the student to test at a more advanced level or have completed the TOEFL Gateway module.