English Classes

Two days a week, Expanding Lives' participants take a formal English as a Second Language class with Liz Bramley, a certified teacher who is also working towards ESL endorsement through Northeastern Illinois University. (Thanks, Professor Bofman for helping us identify a quality teacher!)

Teacher Liz Bramley with Star Student Roukaya

E.L. participants generally have 4 to 5 years of English before arriving, but instruction is mostly grammar transformation and reading.  Liz focuses on getting the girls to speak, to find their English voices and the confidence that comes with that.  Each participant has her own conversation partner with whom to work.  This allows for low-risk success and a connection with an American peer.

Marlia and Loyola student, Riti
(E.L. loves Riti!)

Marwa and Niles West High School student Jamie
(E.L. loves Jamie!)

Why English? High school students in Niger all take a comprehensive exam at the end of their final year.  Success on the exam , determined by overall points, means a shot at university. According to Niger BAC Results On-line, each year over 15,000 students take the BAC exam in Niger, but the success rate is only between 15 and 25 percent.  Every point counts. In addition, Niger borders anglophone Nigeria, has partnerships with many other anglophone African countries, and should have its own citizens speaking about their concerns on the world stage.

Hmm. I guess the girls should write the next blog entry.