Intensive English Program

Student Handbook

Updated 10/22/14

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Table of Contents

Welcome Letter ................................................................................................................................3

Mission Statement ...........................................................................................................................4

Curriculum:

Placement Test ..............................................................................................................................5

Course Descriptions .......................................................................................................................6

Other Components of IEP ..............................................................................................................9

Sample Course Schedule ...............................................................................................................11

Student/Teacher Ratio ..................................................................................................................11

Assessment ....................................................................................................................................11

Criteria for Advancement ..............................................................................................................12

Complaints/Grievance Policy .........................................................................................................13

IEP Student Services:

IEP Advising Services ......................................................................................................................14

Student ID Cards ............................................................................................................................15

Campus Events and Extracurricular Activities ...............................................................................15

International Student Association .................................................................................................15

Student Health Center ...................................................................................................................16

TOEFL Paper-Based Test ................................................................................................................16

Counseling Center .........................................................................................................................16

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Bookstore .......................................................................................................................................17

Library ..........................................................................................................................................17

Computer Labs ...............................................................................................................................18

IEP Facilities and Resources for Students .......................................................................................18

Intramural Sports ...........................................................................................................................19

AUM Student Email Accounts ........................................................................................................19

ESL Certificate of Achievement .....................................................................................................19

Mandatory Health Insurance .........................................................................................................19

Policies and Procedures:

Conduct Letter ...............................................................................................................................21

Attendance Policy ..........................................................................................................................23

Payment Policies ............................................................................................................................24

Miscellaneous Student Policies .....................................................................................................25

Appendix A:

AUM’s language Test Score Requirements ...................................................................................28

Appendix B:

Contact Information ......................................................................................................................30

Campus Maps ................................................................................................................................31

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I would like to extend a warm welcome to all students. Our teachers and staff strive to provide you with

quality English language training to help you succeed in your academic, professional, and personal goals.

In this handbook, you will find important information regarding our curriculum, policies, and procedures. It

is very important that you read this handbook thoroughly and understand our expectations of you and the

services available to you at AUM.

I hope your time as a student at Auburn University at Montgomery will be a great experience!

Sincerely,

Emily M. Young

ESL Program Manager

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Mission Statement

The Intensive English Program (IEP) at Auburn University at Montgomery exists to serve the international

community by providing exemplary English language training, using qualified professionals in courses

specifically designed to better help international students master the English language and to enable them

to succeed in their academic, professional, and personal lives.

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Curriculum:

Placement Test:

Before the registration process begins, students are given a four part test that evaluates their proficiency in listening, reading, grammar, and writing. Each section is composed of a variety of questions that aids in assessing the student’s abilities within the four individual categories of study; thus, there is no arbitrary assignment of classes. The three categories of study (grammar and writing are combined into one class) are broken into five levels of proficiency: Beginning, Low-intermediate, Intermediate, High-intermediate, and Advanced.

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Course Descriptions:

Beginning Listening and Speaking: Students will learn to communicate in English by practicing simple listening and speaking skills such as personal introductions, likes and dislikes, common questions and answers, answering yes/no questions, introducing someone, making simple suggestions, and other necessary fundamental language skills to enhance their oral communication and basic social language needs. Lessons will focus on activities using simple present and simple past. The introduction of new vocabulary words and pronunciation correction are an important part of this course. This course prepares students for the Low-intermediate Listening and Speaking course.

Low-intermediate Listening and Speaking: Students will learn to communicate in English by practicing basic listening and speaking skills such as giving advice, complimenting someone, asking for directions, making small talk, introducing someone, and other necessary tools to enhance their oral communication skills. The introduction of new vocabulary words and pronunciation correction are also an important part of this course. This course prepares students for the Intermediate Listening and Speaking course.

Intermediate Listening and Speaking: Students will learn to communicate in English naturally and effectively by practicing listening and speaking skills such as making small talk, making an appointment, giving advice, asking for clarification, and expressing agreement and disagreement. Students will work on building vocabulary by listening to and discussing a variety of topics from authentic radio interviews, reports, and lectures. Students will develop essential listening strategies such as predicting, analyzing language, understanding main ideas and points of view, and recalling details. Pronunciation correction occurs at less frequent intervals at this level. This course prepares students for the High-intermediate Listening and Speaking course.

High– intermediate Listening and Speaking: Students will learn to communicate in English naturally and effectively by practicing listening and speaking skills such as general daily conversations, talking about the past and future, giving advice, making clarifications, discussing academic classroom topics, and expressing agreement and disagreement. Students will work on building vocabulary and using advanced oral structure by listening to and discussing a variety of topics from authentic radio interviews, reports, and lectures. Students will continue to develop essential listening strategies such as predicting, analyzing language, understanding main ideas and points of view, and recalling details. This course allows students to study the TOEFL Listening and Speaking materials up to an hour a week. This course prepares students for the Advanced Listening and Speaking course. Passing the TOEFL is equivalent to passing this course.

Advanced Listening and Speaking: Students will engage in formal and informal conversation on various topics and further develop listening comprehension skills as well as more analytical skills. The course exposes students to the everyday speech of native speakers with various accents and/or dialects to improve listening and speaking strategies. Authentic radio interviews, reports, and lectures help students learn American culture, values, and attitudes as well as advanced cultural phrases and expressions which enhance the student’s vocabulary skills. This course allows students to study the TOEFL Listening and Speaking materials up to an hour a week. Passing the TOEFL is equivalent to passing this course.

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Beginning Reading and Discussion: Students will read and discuss multiple simplified readings. The readings come from a variety of sources including newspaper articles, essays, poems, short stories, and simple charts and graphs. The introduction and assimilation of new simple vocabulary is a primary part of this class. Outside materials, readings not found in the textbook, will be presented throughout the course. The bulk of reading will be completed at home leaving class time open for review and discussion of the assigned texts. Students are required to interact with both their classmates and the teacher about the subjects presented. The discussion will be at a slow and even spoken rate using simplified oral English, structured and guided by the instructor. Completion of a book report is required. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English reading ability in preparation for the Low-intermediate Reading and Discussion Course.

Low-intermediate Reading and Discussion: Students will read and discuss multiple simplified readings. The readings come from a variety of sources including newspaper articles, essays, poems, short stories, and simple charts and graphs. The introduction and assimilation of new vocabulary is a very important part of this class. Outside materials, readings not found in the textbook, will be presented throughout the course. The bulk of reading will be completed at home leaving class time open for discussion and group work. Students are required to interact with both their classmates and the teacher about the subjects presented. The discussion will be at a slow and even spoken rate structured by the teacher. Completion of a book report is required. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English reading ability in preparation for the Intermediate Reading and Discussion Course.

Intermediate Reading and Discussion: Students will read and discuss multiple simplified and un-simplified readings. The readings come from a variety of sources including newspaper articles, essays, poems, short stories, charts and graphs. Outside materials, readings not found in the textbook, will be presented throughout the course. The students will also read current events through weekly newspaper journals. The bulk of reading will be completed at home leaving class time open for discussion and group work. The students will be required to interact with both their classmates and the teacher about the subjects presented. The discussion, open ended and instructor guided, will be at a slower than natural spoken rate. Completion of a book report is required. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English reading ability and to encourage reading outside of the classroom in preparation for the High-intermediate Reading and Discussion Course.

High-intermediate Reading and Discussion: Students will read and discuss multiple un-simplified and some advanced readings. The readings come from a variety of sources including newspaper articles, essays, poems, short stories, charts and graphs. Outside materials, readings not found in the textbook, will be presented throughout the course. The students will also read current events through weekly newspaper journals and may be required to make presentations on what they have learned. The bulk of reading will be completed at home leaving class time open for discussion and group work. The students will be required to interact with both their classmates and the teacher about the subjects presented. The discussion will be at a natural spoken rate. Further, the students will function independently through teacher led discussions. Completion of a book report is required. This course allows students to study the TOEFL Reading materials up to an hour a week. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English reading ability and to encourage reading outside of the classroom in preparation for the Advanced Reading and Discussion Course. Passing the TOEFL is equivalent to passing this course.

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Advanced Reading and Discussion: Students will read and discuss various un-simplified, full-length, academic readings. The readings come from a variety of sources: college textbooks, newspaper articles, essays, poems, short stories, charts and graphs. Outside materials, readings not found in the textbook, will be presented throughout the course. The students will discuss current events through weekly newspaper journals and presentations. The students will be required to interact with both their classmates and the teacher about the subjects presented. The bulk of reading will be completed at home leaving class time open for discussion and group work. The discussion will be at a natural spoken rate, which can include lectures, and will be open-ended with both instructor- and student-led topics. Completion of a book report is required. This course allows students to study the TOEFL Reading materials up to an hour a week. This class is designed to prepare the student for full-text academic reading and discussion and professional discourse. Passing the TOEFL is equivalent to passing this course.

Beginning Writing and Grammar: Students will learn to write basic sentences focusing on the simple present, past, and future form. Students will also practice writing short, low-function sentences with the three major verb tenses. The skills for writing complete sentences and the proper use of nouns are the major focuses of this level, with a general focus on grammar rules with some functional practice in writing. Writing practice and teacher correction are an important part of this class. Students will turn in one or two writing assignments. The focus of this class is. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English writing ability in preparation for the Low- intermediate Grammar and Writing Course. (Grammar/writing ratio: 75/25)

Low-intermediate Writing and Grammar: Students will learn to write simple sentences, compound sentences, some types of complex sentences, and short paragraphs. Students will also practice paraphrasing and summarizing at the sentence and paragraph level, respectively. The skills for writing better topic sentences, supporting details, and conclusion sentences are also taught when students are introduced to academic paragraph writing. Simple and continuous tenses, parts of speech, and some modal verbs are studied. Students turn in three to five major writing assignments. The focus of this class is on grammar with functional practice in writing. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English writing ability in preparation for the Intermediate Grammar and Writing Course. (Grammar/writing ratio: 60/40)

Intermediate Writing and Grammar: Students will learn to write multiple-paragraph compositions such as descriptive, argumentative, and narrative paragraphs and essays. Students will also practice paraphrasing and summarizing at the paragraph level. The skills for writing better introduction paragraphs, thesis statements, body paragraphs, and conclusion paragraphs are also taught when students are introduced to academic essay writing. Besides simple, perfect, and continuous tenses, the passive voice, relative clauses, and noun clauses are introduced. Students turn in three to five major writing assignments. This class focuses equally on grammar and writing practice. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English writing ability in preparation for the High- intermediate Academic Writing and Grammar Course. (Grammar/writing ratio: 50/50)

High-intermediate Academic Writing and Grammar Students will learn to write three-to-five paragraph compositions such as descriptive, argumentative, narrative essays. Students will also hone the skill of paraphrasing and summarizing at the paragraph level.

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The skills for writing better introduction paragraphs, thesis statements, body paragraphs, and conclusion paragraphs are also taught when students study academic essay writing. In addition, all verb tenses, passive voice, relative clauses, and noun clauses are studied. Students turn in three to five major writing assignments. While grammar topics are frequently discussed, the focus of this class is academic writing. This class is designed to enhance the student’s English writing ability in preparation for the Advanced Academic Writing and Grammar Course. Passing the TOEFL is equivalent to passing this course. (Grammar/writing ratio: 40/60)

Advanced Academic Writing and Grammar: Students will learn to write three-to-five-paragraph compositions such as descriptive, argumentative, narrative, and comparative essays. Students will also practice synthesizing, paraphrasing, and summarizing at the paragraph and essay level. The skills for writing better introduction paragraphs, thesis statements, body paragraphs, and conclusion paragraphs are also taught when students study academic essay writing. Grammar instruction consists of all tenses, modal verbs, passive voice, relative clauses, noun clauses, reduced forms, and other high level grammar topics. The appropriate use of idioms and colloquialisms and the scale of formality are addressed in this class. Students turn in three to five major writing assignments in appropriate formats. While grammar topics are reviewed, the focus of this class is academic writing. Passing the TOEFL is equivalent to passing this course. (Grammar/writing ratio: 25/75)

Other Components of the IEP Curriculum:

The Academic Word List: AWL is also used to further enhance the IEP curriculum. Headwords are addressed in all classes and at all five levels. List is available at http://www.uefap.com/vocab/select/awl.htm Will be taught at level 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Weekly lessons Level 1—3 headwords Level 2—4 headwords Level 3—6 headwords Level 4—8 headwords Level 5—10 headwords

Pronunciation:

Pronunciation (sounds, words, stress, intonation) is also addressed to further enhance the IEP curriculum. Pronunciation is addressed in the Listening and Speaking class at all five levels.

Acculturation: Acculturation is also used to further enhance the IEP curriculum. Monthly themes are recognized and studied to help students better understand American culture.

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Calendar of Themes Month Theme 1 (1

st half of the month) Theme 2 (2

nd half of the month)

January School Closed Martin Luther King Day February Valentine’s Day Black History Month

March Mardi Gras & New Orleans St. Patrick’s Day

April Easter Day American Etiquette

May Memorial Day & Vietnam War Baseball or Nascar June Broadway National Monuments July Independence Day Nascar or Baseball August School Closed American Indian Month September The States College Football October Columbus Day Halloween November Thanksgiving Black Friday December Christmas School Closed

Blue: Spring-1

Green: Spring-2

Orange: Summer Yellow: Fall-1 Red: Fall-2

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Sample Course Schedule:

Students study the following courses in an eight-week period. Students are placed into the proficiency level which corresponds with their performance on the program placement test.

Reading and Discussion (Beginning) Reading and Discussion (Low-intermediate)

8:30-10:00 a.m. Reading and Discussion (Intermediate) Reading and Discussion (High-intermediate) Reading and Discussion (Advanced)

Writing and Grammar (Beginning) Writing and Grammar (Low-intermediate)

10:15-11:45 a.m. Writing and Grammar (Intermediate) Academic Writing and Grammar (High-Intermediate) Academic Writing and Grammar (Advanced)

Listening and Speaking (Beginning) Listening and Speaking (Low-intermediate)

1:00-2:30 p.m. Listening and Speaking (Intermediate) Listening and Speaking (High-intermediate) Listening and Speaking (Advanced)

Student/Teacher Ratio:

In the Auburn University at Montgomery IEP, we value the interaction a teacher has with students in the classroom. One-on-one interaction in the classroom is crucial to the achievement of our students in the program. We strive for smaller class sizes to encourage this one-on-one interaction between the teacher and student. Our average student/teacher ratio is 10 students to 1 teacher.

Assessment:

Quizzes: They may be oral, written, or both. 10-30 minutes. They could be weekly or after each

unit/chapter.

Exams: 20 – 60 minutes. It may be administered after each unit/chapter.

Midterm Exam: Optional. 20 – 60 minutes. It may be administered during or after fourth week.

Final Exam: 30 – 90 minutes. It may be administered in the last week.

Projects: Book reports, poetry projects, oral presentations, and written assignments (paragraph/essay

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final drafts/reading journals).

Grading Scale: 75 – 100 = Satisfactory, 74 – 0 = Unsatisfactory

Evaluation: Evaluation can be based on a combination of quizzes, chapter exams, a mid-term exam, a

final exam, projects, attendance, and participation.

Notes: (1) Listening & Speaking exams have either a listening or speaking section. (2) If the student does

not have an excuse (e.g. a doctor’s slip), the teacher has the right to refuse to allow the student to take the test on a later date.

Criteria for Advancement from Level to Level and Program Completion:

Advancement from Level to Level (Students in Level 1 – Level 4) All students must take Level Exams to advance to a higher level class.

On the last day of the term all students will take a Level Exam for each course enrolled. The Level Exam will not take the place of the final exam for the course. Each student is still required to take a final exam in each course.

A student who earns a 90% or higher in their current course work for the term and who does not miss more than 5 days of classes will be allowed to move to the next level if they score 75% or higher on the Level Exam.

Program Completion: There are three alternatives regarding the completion of the IEP:

Students in the advanced level classes (level 5) can take the Program Exit Exam o F-1 student visa holders who have been in at least two advanced level courses and one

high-intermediate level course for two consecutive terms, earned a 90% or higher in the classes for both terms and did not miss more than 5 days of class in either term will qualify to take the Program Exit Exam.

o The Program Exit Exam will be given a day after a term ends. Test fee is $30 and must be paid on or before the test day.

o Any student who scores 75% or higher on the Program Exit Exam will qualify for academic study at Auburn University at Montgomery. Any student who scores 75% or higher on the Program Exit Exam is not required to take the TOEFL or IELTS test.

Degree-seeking IEP students can take the TOEFL or IELTS. Students must obtain a score of at least

500 on the paper-based TOEFL, 61 on the iBT TOEFL, or 5.0 on the IELTS to complete the IEP and proceed to a degree program at AUM.

Non-degree seeking students (those in the IEP for self-development or professional reasons) have no defined “completion of the program.” Once a non-degree seeking student passes the Advanced level courses (achievement at 90% or above), the program administration advises advancing beyond the IEP program.

Dismissal: AUM’s Intensive English Program and SEVIS (US Immigration) F-1 visa rules require that international

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students make progress while enrolled in a program of study.

Making Progress: To be considered “making progress” within the IEP program, the student must do ALL

of the following in each class:

o Attend class regularly (students should not miss more than 15% of their classes for any reason)

o Actively and respectfully participate in class

o Do all the work required by the teacher in class and for homework

o Pass each level after one or two attempts (some students may need to repeat a class even though

they attended regularly and completed all work)

Students in the Intensive English Program, whether degree seeking or non-degree seeking, will be subject

to academic probation if they are not making satisfactory progress in their studies or have failed all classes

for two consecutive terms (earned less than 75% in each class) . Students will be notified of probation via

written letter at the end of the second unsatisfactory term and will be required to meet with the ESL

Manager for consultation. If the student fails to pass at least 1 of the 3 required courses during the third

term, the student will receive a dismissal letter and will not be allowed to enroll for a fourth term. A

dismissal letter from the ESL Office is effectively the same as dismissal from AUM; you will not be allowed

to continue your studies at Auburn University at Montgomery.

A student who has been dismissed from the IEP program may appeal the dismissal by requesting a meeting

with the ESL Manager and their most recent instructors. At the meeting, the student must present reasons

for his/her poor performance and a written plan of action for correcting the behavior. The board will hear

the student’s arguments, review the plan of action, and decide whether or not the student deserves an

additional term of study. Students who are granted a fourth term must pass at least 2 of the 3 required

courses or they will be dismissed. No further appeals will be heard.

Here at AUM, we encourage students to strive for good grades and significant progress while studying in the IEP.

To prevent probation or dismissal, we also encourage students to seek assistance from instructors to overcome

any academic difficulties that may arise.

Future Academic Placement: Admission to the IEP is not the same as admission to Auburn University at Montgomery. Undergraduate and Graduate admission requires a separate application to Auburn University at Montgomery’s Office of International Affairs. Please go to http://www.aum.edu/indexm_ektid2268.aspx for more information.

Complaints and Grievance Procedure:

If you have a personal complaint or problem with any aspect of the IEP, we encourage you to address the source directly: the instructor, the office staff, or the Program Manager. Usually, this is the easiest way to resolve a conflict; although, we understand that you may feel uncomfortable doing so personally. In this case, you may discuss the problem directly with the Program Manager. However, the IEP instructors are more than happy to hear your suggestions and concerns relating to class instruction, coursework, and other aspects of the IEP. Instructors are open for meeting with students before and after class, or you may make an appointment for a certain meeting time. If meeting with the instructor

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does not resolve your problem fully, you may discuss the problem directly with the IEP Manager. If the problem cannot be solved prior to reaching the IEP Manager, she will meet with you to discuss your options in resolving the problem. The IEP Manager will work closely with you to find a solution that is most suitable and comfortable for you. All information shared during these meetings is confidential. If you still do not feel that the problem has been completely addressed, the IEP Manager can present you with further options.

Written Grievances: If you feel more comfortable submitting a written complaint/grievance*, please feel

free to email the ESL Progrma Manager: Emily Young eyoung2@aum.edu

All grievances and resolutions will be kept on file by the IEP Manager. Privacy Statement: All complaints and grievances submitted will only be accessible by those

people involved.

IEP Student Services:

Advising services (application process, classwork, homework, proficiency levels, grades,

placement, re-placement, housing, payments, health insurance, and attendance)

International Student Orientation

Student ID

Extracurricular activities

International Students Organization (ISO)

Student Health Center

TOEFL Paper-Based test

IELTS Test Center

Campus events

Counseling Center

Bookstore

Library access

Computer lab access (ESL Lab, 205 Goodwin Hall lab, Taylor Center lab)

Intramural sports

AUM Student email account

ESL Certificate of Achievement

Intensive English Program Advising Services:

Application process: We can help prospective students with the IEP application process. Please e-mail

all inquiries to the ESL Office at esl@aum.edu.

Proficiency levels, placement, and re-placement: Before the registration process begins, students are given a four-part test that evaluates their proficiency in listening, reading, grammar, and writing. Each

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section is composed of a variety of questions that aids in assessing the student’s abilities within the four individual categories of study; thus, there is no arbitrary assignment of classes. The three categories of study (grammar and writing are combined into one class) are broken into five levels of proficiency: Beginning, Low-intermediate, Intermediate, High-intermediate, and Advanced. The test is also used for re-placement purposes in case the student, the teacher, or both believe that the student has been improperly placed. Grades and Attendance: Students can access their grades and attendance information through our

online grading system: www.engrade.com

Housing: The IEP can provide prospective students and currents students with introductory information

regarding AUM’s housing facilities and the application process. Please contact the ESL Office at (334)

244-3131 for further information.

Payments: IEP students can pay their tuition at the ESL Office, which is located in 700 Library Tower.

Health Insurance: The IEP can provide prospective students and currents students with introductory

information regarding AUM’s mandatory health insurance. Please contact the ESL Office at (334) 244-

3131 for further information.

New Student Orientation:

All new IEP students must attend the mandatory IEP Orientation. At the orientation program, you will

receive information regarding the city of Montgomery, the university, campus life, the Intensive English

Program, and our policies and procedures.

Student ID:

All IEP students that hold an F1 student visa qualify for an AUM student ID. The AUM Bookstore is the

location for obtaining your student ID. You can get the card once you register for classes and it is valid

for each term of enrollment. You are required to present this card to use the library, to use the gym,

and for free admission to events such as athletics and theatre productions. The first ID card is free but

$10 is charged for a replacement card.

Campus Events and Extracurricular Activities:

We believe that learning continues outside of the classroom, so AUM and the Intensive English Program

offer many free events for our students around the year (i.e. pizza parties, a pumpkin carving contest,

bowling day, a Christmas party, trips to historic sites, music events, etc.). You can check out the list of

up-coming events on the bulletin boards on the 7th floor of the Library Tower and in your classrooms.

International Student Association:

The International Student Association meets each semester to plan and organize events and

opportunities for international students on campus and in the community. This active organization

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provides a great opportunity for students to get to know others from AUM’s diverse international

community. The meetings combine a social, relaxed atmosphere with the chance for students to share

information about their native countries' customs and events. The organization's biggest event of the

year is an annual international festival. Always well attended, the festival showcases the foods and

cultures of the many countries represented at Auburn Montgomery. For more information, contact the

Office of Global Initiatives at 334-244-3629.

Student Health Center:

A primary care Student Health Centeris available to students at the Student Health Center in Irma B.

Moore Hall, Room 102. For a nominal co-payment, students can be seen for problem-oriented visits by a

certified registered nurse practitioner.

The Student Health Center also offers preventive health services:

Health screening / Physical Examinations

Immunizations

Women’s health examinations

Contraceptive counseling

Laboratory testing

Regularly scheduled health education programs, distribution of protective devices, and health education

materials are also offered through the center. The Student Health Center is open during regularly

scheduled university semester sessions for currently enrolled AUM students with a valid student I.D.

Walk-ins are welcome or to make an appointment call (334) 244-3281.

Location: 7400 East Drive

102 Moore Hall

Montgomery, AL 36117

Phone: (334) 244-3281

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

TOEFL Paper-Based Test:

The IEP administers the TOEFL Paper-Based Test three times a year. The dates of tests are announced in

your classes a few weeks before the test date. The test is $40, and students must register if they want to

take the test.

Counseling Center:

AUM supports students throughout their experience at the university by offering free counseling

services for students. Counseling is a process which promotes greater self-awareness and development

in behaviors, feelings and relationships as it relates to difficulties which impede daily life satisfaction.

Students seeking counseling from the Auburn Montgomery Counseling Center will be met with

acceptance, trust and respect by a trained licensed professional credentialed by the state of Alabama.

The counseling process can be initiated by the student or through referral by a teacher, family member,

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friend, or professional in the community. The choice to begin, continue, or terminate counseling is left

to the student. Walk-ins are welcomed and appointments are encouraged.

Location: 7400 East Drive

319 Taylor Center – Counseling Center

Montgomery, AL 36117

Phone: (334) 244-3469

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Bookstore:

At the AUM Bookstore, you will be able to find the textbooks for an upcoming term:

Location: 7400 East Drive

114 Taylor Center—Campus Bookstore

Montgomery, AL 36117

Phone: 334-244-3578

Email: bookstore@aum.edu

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Library:

The AUM Library provides access to information resources to support the curriculum and research

needs of AUM’s students, faculty and staff. We facilitate lifelong learning within the AUM community

by teaching the information literacy skills necessary to effectively locate, evaluate, and use information.

The Library assists in providing for the informational needs of the greater Montgomery community and

the TriCounty area.

To borrow books from the AUM Library, present your student I.D. at the circulation desk on the first

floor of the Library Tower.

Location: 7430 East Drive

Library Tower

Montgomery, AL 36117

Phone: (334) 244-3649

Email: http://aumnicat.aum.edu/

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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Computer Labs:

-ESL Program Computers

Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m.-4:00p.m.

Saturday Closed

Sunday Closed

-Taylor Center Computer Lab

Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Friday 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.

-Goodwyn Hall Computer Lab, Room 205

Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sunday Closed

-Library Tower Computer Lab, 2nd Floor

Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Friday 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m.-9 p.m.

**Available when the computer lab is not booked for bibliographic instruction.

-School of Business, Room 218

Opening and closing times vary. Please view the schedule posted on the door to the lab.

IEP Facilities and Resources for Students: Facilities:

Classrooms: The facility contains five ESL classrooms advanced with “Smart Room” technology (ceiling mounted multimedia projection unit, ceiling mounted speakers, pull-down screen used as a display unit, multi-function touch-pen monitor (Sympodium), digital document camera, DVD player, and VHS player). Students can also use the classroom for study after class hours.

ESL Program Computers: The ESL Program has seven desktop computer stations, and each computer has speakers and access to the Internet. Students can also use the headphones for certain listening and speaking activities that are available on the computers. There is also a black and white printer available for IEP students in the lab.

ESL Café: A seating area with a coffee machine is located right outside the ESL Office on the 7th

floor of the Library Tower. Students can try 15 different hot beverages and read popular magazines like National Geographic, People, and Time.

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Resources:

Resource Room: Only Instructors have access to the resource room. However, IEP students can check out certain short story books and TOEFL/IELTS Preparation books. Students can come to the ESL Office to check out materials.

English Language Learning Software: IEP computer stations have certain English language learning programs that students can use any time the ESL Office is open.

Intramural Sports:

AUM strives to provide a safe, comprehensive sport and leisure program to meet the needs of the

students regardless of their athletic ability or skill. All AUM students may participate in AUM Intramural

Sports. The goal of intramurals is to give students a way to be involved while being physically active. The

program is designed for students to have fun while learning at the same time. For more information, you

can see Charles Ferguson in 211Education or contact him at cfergus4@aum.edu or 334-244-3933.

AUM Student Email Account:

All IEP students that hold an F1 student visa qualify for an AUM e-mail account. You can obtain your e-

mail account information at https://mars.aum.edu/secure/email/lookup/ by entering your AUM student

number and your date of birth.

ESL Certificate of Achievement:

The IEP issues certificates of achievement to any student who successfully completes the program with

satisfactory progress. These certificates are available upon request to any full-time IEP student at no

additional charge.

Mandatory AUM Group Health Insurance:

*Insurance Regulations: International students whose health insurance plans are not valid in the

United States must purchase health and repatriation insurance plans that are valid in the United

States.

Auburn University at Montgomery implements mandatory participation in the AUM Group Health

Insurance Plan for all international students, visiting scholars and their dependents. This insurance policy

protects you from the high cost of health care in the United States. Incoming international students and

scholars are often surprised to find that the U.S. Federal and state governments do not generally provide

health care. Insurance is therefore essential to protect the student or scholar, as well as their family in

the unfortunate event of a serious accident or illness. Enrollment in the AUM Group Health Insurance

Plan is a protection that can provide the financial resources necessary for the student or scholar to

continue their academic program.

The AUM Group Health Insurance Plan was chosen after an intensive comparison among various

competing programs. The selection process made a good faith effort to pick the most cost-effective

program, providing our international students and scholars with the best health and illness coverage

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for the cost. The Group Health Insurance Plan is provided by United Healthcare Student Resources of

Saint Petersburg, Florida.

Under certain exceptional circumstances, students and scholars or dependents may waive out of the mandatory requirements if they can provide proof of insurance coverage that is EQUAL TO OR GREATER THAN the coverage provided by the AUM plan. Students and scholars should be aware that waivers are rarely given. Policies purchased abroad do not typically meet the AUM mandatory requirements. U.S. Department of State minimum requirements are also not equivalent to the AUM insurance plan.

To obtain a waiver, the student/scholar must submit an International Waiver Application which can be

found on the AUM international student webpage or by visiting the Office of International Education

Services. This application must be completed and signed by the student or scholar and BY THE

PROPOSED INSURANCE COMPANY which attests their coverage is equal to or greater than the AUM

insurance plan. The fully completed and signed waiver application must be submitted to the AUM

Office of International Education Services by the NINTH CLASS DAY of the semester of arrival at AUM.

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Policies and Procedures:

Conduct Letter:

Auburn University at Montgomery English as a Second Language Conduct Expectation Letter

Dear Student,

In the following list, you will find the expectations of appropriate student conduct and responsibilities to maintain Good Standing for the Auburn University at Montgomery Intensive English Program:

1. Attendance is mandatory for IEP students who hold an F1 student visa.

Unexcused absences are unacceptable. If you know you will be absent, you must let the Program Manager know in advance. If you have already been absent for more than two days, you need to notify the Program Manager of the situation. Your student visa requires you to be in class every day. It is required by law.

2. We are all here to help you, but please do not come to the ESL Office

for your questions, class concerns, or registration during class time. Class time is reserved for instruction. If there is a problem, please wait until your class ends. We can answer your questions and help you after your class ends.

3. Any student wishing to transfer to a different level course must do so before the

5th day of class. Any request we receive after day 5 will be rejected.

4. All students must purchase textbooks for each course in which they are enrolled.

Any student who fails to purchase all required textbooks by the fifth class session

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will not be allowed to return to the IEP. No exceptions will be made. No refunds or credits will be given.

5. You can keep your cell phones on during class time. However, they need

to be on silent (not on vibrate). You must not answer your phone unless the call has been discussed with the instructor before class. For typical phone calls, please wait until your class ends.

6. Advanced and High-intermediate level students must use a monolingual English

dictionary. If you are in Beginning, Low-intermediate, or Intermediate levels, you

are encouraged to use bilingual dictionaries and translators as needed.

7. Punctuality is very important. If your class starts at 1 pm, you must be in class before 1 pm. If you arrive in class at 1:02, you are late. Walking in the class late distracts other students.

8. Last but not least, we have respect for all students and every culture. We expect

that all students show equal respect to their teachers and other classmates.

Thank you for your attention to the matters above. If you have any questions, please feel free to visit my office: 701 Library Tower. Sincerely, Emily M. Young ESL Program Manager

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Attendance Policy: It is impossible to succeed in the IEP courses at AUM without regular attendance.

1. All IEP students must attend at least 85% of the total class hours (students may miss up to five school days) in each individual class they are enrolled.

2. A doctor’s slip and a police report are the only documents accepted for excused absences. The student must turn in the document to the ESL Office when he/she returns to school. If the document is not submitted to the ESL Office within two days after the student returns to school, the excuse will be rejected.

3. 3 x L = A: If you are late three times—even just a few minutes late—the third time will be recorded as an absence in the attendance book. If the class starts at 8:30 a.m. and the student comes at 8:31 a.m., the student is late for the class. If the student is more than 20 minutes late, the student will be marked absent in that class.

4. Any IEP student not attending 85% of class hours in any of the three IEP classes will be subject to probation during the next session of enrollment (notified via written explanation).

5. Any IEP student on attendance probation is required to attend at least 85% of total class hours for each individual class that the student is enrolled.

6. After probation requirements are met for one full session of enrollment, the student will be released from probationary status.

7. If probation requirements are not met, the student will be restricted from IEP registration. The fee for readmission to the IEP is $200. Those who are readmitted to the program will immediately be dismissed from the program on their sixth (6) day of unexcused absence in any of the three IEP classes.

8. If the student does not attend at least 85% of the total class hours in each individual class they are enrolled and the student was on attendance probation for two consecutive terms in the past, the student will be placed on the final phase of probation. The student will be readmitted to the program one last time. $200 readmission fee will be required. If the student does not attend 85% of class hours in any of the three IEP classes during this final probation period, the student will immediately be dismissed from the program on their sixth (6) day of unexcused absence in any of the three IEP classes.

Example:

In your first term: You were absent more than five days in of the three IEP courses.

In your second term: You are now on attendance probation, but you were absent more than

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five days in one or more of the three IEP classes again. In your third term: You pay $200 readmission fee. You will be dismissed from the IEP immediately on your sixth day of absence. If probation requirements are not met, the student does not meet F and J visa requirements. In this case, the student is in violation of their visa status and must apply for reinstatement.

Payment Policies:

Surcharge Policy:

Students registered any time after early registration deadline must pay full tuition and $50 late

fee. The late fee does not apply to new IEP students.

ESL Cancellation and Refund Policy: ESL Cancellation Deadline / Refund Policy: If you are unable to attend the course for which you have

registered, we ask that you notify the ESL Office (by phone or email) no later than six business days

prior to the beginning of the course. A full refund is given when cancellation is made before this

deadline. Failure to attend does not constitute a cancellation.

ESL Credit Policy: If you cancel registration after the cancellation deadline, you have the option to

receive 80% credit to be used within six months towards ESL courses offered at AUM.

Please note: No credit will be issued after the fifth session of the course.

Student Transfer Policy:

Any student wishing to transfer to a different level course must do so before the 5th class session. Concerning changes in textbooks due to course transfers:

If the original class registered for was recommended by AUM ESL staff, the appropriate

textbook for the course transfer will be reissued by AUM Staff. If the student chose the original

course level and the course transfer on their own, it will be the student’s responsibility to

obtain the appropriate textbook for the class transfer. The IEP is not responsible for textbook

changes or refund of textbook charges in this situation.

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Intensive English Program

Student Request to Change Level/Class

If you would like to request a level/class change, please complete this form and submit it to Emily Young, the ESL Program Manager. This form will not be accepted after the end of the first full week of classes.

Please note: The IEP will not change your schedule for personal reasons only (i.e. you don’t like one of the students in the class; you think you won’t like the instructor; etc.).

Date: Term: Fall 1 Fall 2 Spring 1 Spring 2 Summer

Name:

Request change from to (class / level) (class / level)

Reason: Please give a detailed explanation of why you are requesting this change. Continue your paragraph on the back of sheet if necessary.

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Miscellaneous Student Policies:

DRINKING AND DRIVING:

Drunk driving is a serious crime in the United States, and one of the leading killers of people

under 25. Drivers are considered drunk if their blood-alcohol level is .08 (that’s about three

drinks in one hour). If you are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), you will

lose your license and may go to jail. Also, any rental car insurance you purchase is invalid if an

accident is alcohol related

ALCOHOL:

American customs and laws regarding alcohol and drinking are probably very different than the

laws in your country. The university and local authorities are very serious when they enforce

alcohol laws, and “It’s different in my country,” is not an excuse. You must be 21 years old to

purchase and drink alcohol in Alabama. This law is very strict. It is very common for the store

clerk to ask to see your "ID" to prove your age when you buy alcohol. It is illegal for anyone,

regardless of age, to possess an open container of alcohol in an area that is not licensed for

alcohol consumption. This means that you may not carry an open can or bottle from one dorm

room to another or from your apartment to your friend’s house. It is also against the law to

take an open container out of a restaurant or bar.

ON-CAMPUS SAFETY:

Police: It is always appropriate to ask the police to help with all kinds of matters such as lost or

stolen property, and emergency situations. Police are legally prohibited from accepting “gifts”

or money. They may arrest people attempting to offer such gifts.

Like most large cities, Montgomery can be dangerous, but if you are careful and take necessary

precautions, your stay should be a pleasant and crime-free one. The most common type of

crime on campus is petty theft. If you leave your belongings unattended, they can be stolen

while you go to the bathroom or take a nap in the library.

AUM Campus Police

Phone: (334) 244-3424

They are located on the 1st floor of Taylor Center. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit

their website for more information and tips about safety:

http://www.aum.edu/indexm_ektid2474.aspx

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Tips for Safety on Campus:

Keep your backpack, books, and other belongings with you at all times.

Do not leave your belongings unattended (including in the library or cafeteria).

If you drive to campus, always park in areas with a lot of light.

Carry as little cash as possible, and do not wear or show expensive-looking jewelry,

iPods, etc.

Be aware of people around you at all times.

Call AUM police for an escort to your car, bus stop, or train station at night or at any

time you feel unsafe (334-244-3424). Someone from the police will walk with you!

Emergency phones—phones with a blue light at the top of a pole--are located

throughout the university. In an emergency, push the blue button and you will be

connected to the police.

F-1 Visa Students Only:

What important information do I need to know?

1. While you are a student in the IEP, you are allowed to work at the university only. You are

not allowed to work off-campus. When you enter degree studies at the university, you may work off

campus within your educational field for a specified amount of time.

2. You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while you are a full-time IEP student.

During holidays, you may work up to 40 hours per week. During summer semester, if you are a part-time

student or if you are taking a vacation, you may work up to 40 hours per week.

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Appendix A:

AUM’s Language Test Score Requirements for International Students:

The TOEFL® Test - Test of English as a Foreign Language™

The TOEFL® test is the most widely accepted English-language test in the world. The aim of the

TOEFL is to assess your English proficiency level. Most colleges and universities in the United

States and Canada require all international applicants to take a language proficiency test.

Schools in other countries where English is the language of instruction may ask for your TOEFL

score before accepting you into their program. Some government agencies, scholarship

programs, and licensing organizations use the TOEFL to evaluate your English proficiency.

TOEFL Paper-Based Test: 500

The TOEFL Paper-based Test (PBT) measures how well you read, and listen in English.

Listening comprehension

50 questions

30-40 minutes

Structure and written expression

40 questions

25 minutes

Reading comprehension

50 questions

55 minutes

TOEFL Computer-Based Test: 173

The TOEFL CBT has four sections: Listening, Structure, Reading, and Writing. In computer-

adaptive sections, questions are chosen from a very large pool of questions that are categorized

by difficulty and content. The questions are chosen by the computer, based on how you answer

the previous questions.

Listening 30-50 questions 40-60 minutes

Structure 20-25 questions 15-20 minutes

Reading 44-55 questions 70-90 minutes

Writing 1 topic 30 minutes

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TOEFL Internet-Based Test: 61

The TOEFL iBT measures how well you read, listen, speak and write in English and use these

skills together in the university classroom. For example, you might read a passage or listen to a

lecture, and then write or speak about what you learned.

Reading 36-70 questions 60-100 minutes

Listening 34-51 questions 60-90 minutes

Speaking 6 tasks 20 minutes

Writing 2 tasks 50 minutes

International students who have scored at least 488 on paper-based TOEFL, 163 on computer-

based TOEFL or 57 on internet- based TOEFL will take a combined load of undergraduate

courses including appropriate English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. Students continue

with ESL courses until they pass TOEFL or IELTS (Passing IELTS score: 5.0) according to the

Auburn Montgomery minimum acceptable score requirements.

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Appendix B:

Contact Information:

ESL Office Contact Information: Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm Monday through Friday (except for holidays) Adress: 700 Library Tower

7430 East Drive Montgomery, AL, 36117

Phone: (334) 244-3131 Fax: (334) 244-3503 Email: esl@aum.edu

Emily Young (ESL Program Manager) 701 Library Tower (334) 244-3128 eyoung2@aum.edu Kylie McBrayer (ESL Program Associate) 700 Library Tower (334) 244-3131 esl@aum.edu Toby Killcreas (IELTS Administrator/Testing Coordinator) 700 Library Tower (334) 244-3129 ielts@aum.edu Ron Blaesing (International Student Advisor) (Student visas and international student admissions) 119 Administration Building (334) 244-3758 rblaesin@aum.edu Campus Police: (334) 244-3424

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Campus Maps:

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