卡加利生活-馬特先生和佐佐木小姐

I had studied English for five semesters incluing two terms for part-time LINC classes and three terms for EAP program since I landed in Calgary.

Here are some experiences I have and I am gonna share with you guys.

移民來加拿大後, 我總共上了五學期ESL的課程.  其中LINC讀了兩期part-time的聽說讀寫, 另外讀了一個一年的EAP( English for Academic Purpose)的課程.

以下是我的幾點心得

1.For all immigrants in Calgary, the first thing I will sugguest is to take Canadian English benchmark test. 

After you get the result of the test, you can choose either study English or apply for some programs for finding a job( like bridge program).

我是建議來卡加立以後,不管你的英文程度如何.可以先去考一下加拿大的英文程度測試. 大概了解一下你的水準以後,再決定你想做什麼. 

去哪裡考試和注意事項,請參考這一篇English testing in Calgary

2. Do I really have to study LINC courses ?

For ESL, the highest immediate level will be "8", you can see your assessment from Immigrant Language and Vocational Assessment .

A.If your overall level is lower than 5, there is no doubt that you should take LINC class. Myself took LINC at Bow Valley College. 

B.If your overall level is between 6~8, then you can consider

    1)applying for bridge programs that can teach you Canadian Workplace Culture and help you get a practicum chance.

    2)or you can apply for a professional job in your field. ( It depends on your original background )

    3) or you can take an entrance exam for English for Academic Purpose program if you would like to study at a post-secondary education institution.

     ( Be aware: check the English proficiency reqiurment of the program you are interested in first )

3. Part-time LINC or full-time LINC?

If possible, my suggestion is going to take full-time LINC. Students there are taking studying English more seriously than part-time students.

Also, teachers are working harder in general.

If you cannot make it, taking part-time courses( Speaking&Listening; Wirting and reading)+working ( or having a part-time job) also work well. 

4. IS studying EAP helpful for improving my English skills?

Definitely.

Since EAP is an very intense course, it really can keep you on track. 

However, EAP is designed for ESL students who desire for studying in the near future, not for who want to get a job.

The skills you learn in EAP may not help you in your interview and in your daily life.

5. Tell me more about BVC' EAP program

We will discuss this later( in another article)