RISD SUMMER PROGRAM IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE STUDIES
The Summer Program in English Language Studies is recommended for non-native speakers of English who may have lived temporarily in an English-speaking country, who may have studied English in their native countries, or who may be US citizens residing abroad. Incoming students who lack fluency in listening, reading or writing formal English may choose to spend six weeks preparing for their academic courses and to receive three (3) Liberal Arts elective credits for completing this summer program.

Academic English
This intensive program is designed to provide undergraduate and transfer students with the speaking, writing, reading and listening skills required for all course work at the Rhode Island School of Design. Students attend classes Monday through Thursday, 9am to 3pm, and Friday, 9am to noon. Students will learn college study skills; practice speaking and listening; and focus on college reading, writing and studio art. Included in the academic week are day trips to art museums and nearby sites to observe historical buildings and/or to listen to lectures about art.

At the beginning and at the end of this program, faculty will assess a student’s proficiency in speaking and listening, reading comprehension and writing. A student must demonstrate that he or she has achieved the required proficiency by earning a grade of C or better for the course. Those will demonstrate that they cannot meet the college’s requirement of reading and writing academic English will be asked to continue to study English before they continue their studies at RISD.

Studio class
During the week, all students will participate in studio art. Students will develop English speaking skills and gain self-confidence by discussing their own art during studio critique sessions. Since the “crit” is a significant part of art and design at RISD, these sessions are important for all students.

Peer writing tutors
Peer writing tutors will work with students in the RISD Writing Center during the day and after classes. During the academic year, peer writing tutors will continue to assist all students in writing.

Free time
In addition to attending classes in academic English, students in the program will be introduced to American culture and life in Providence. In informal settings, students continue to speak English, while they learn about American life. On Sunday evenings, students watch and discuss American films.

On-campus residence
Residence at the College is required for all undergraduate students. Students will be housed in RISD resident halls, which will be staffed by student Resident Assistants. Meals will be taken at the Metcalf Refectory.

Graduate Students
Graduate Students will attend separate classes that stress academic reading and writing for the graduates’ concentrations. Graduate students will study with a faculty member to prepare oral presentations and to learn researching and documenting skills for preparing to write a Master’s thesis. Graduate students are not required to live on campus, but many students prefer to live in residence halls and to eat their meals at the Metcalf Refectory. Attending optional social activities will give all students practice in speaking informal English.

Further information
Because of the international time difference, students may find that questions or requests for more information will be faster by e-mail (sumeng@risd.edu). Students may also call, write or fax:

Frances Musco Shipps, Director
Summer Program in English Language Studies
Rhode Island School of Design
Two College Street
Providence, RI 02903
United States of America
phone: 401 454-6730
fax: 401 277-4920

All housing questions should be directed to Brian Janes, Director, Office of Residence Life.