U of MN English Language Proficiency Policy
Questions about the SPEAK Test
English Language Proficiency Rating Scale
Individual English Language Proficiency Ratings (Faculty and Staff only)
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More on the English Policy and SPEAK Test
The ITA Program offers courses that are required for nonnative English-speaking graduate students who wish to be eligible for a Teaching Assistant position and who have scored under 55 on the SPEAK Test or Test of Spoken English. In GRAD 5102 Preparation for University Teaching for Nonnative English Speakers, students acquire interactive classroom communications strategies through simulated teaching and spoken English instruction. In GRAD 5105 Practicum for University Teaching for Nonnative English Speakers, students explore advanced topics in teaching and classroom communication while teaching actual classes in their disciplines.
Although most students take GRAD 5102 and GRAD 5105 to fulfill the University of Minnesota language proficiency requirement for TA eligibility, many with no plans to hold a TA position have found the program's emphasis on accurate, discipline-specific communication to be an important component of their professional development during graduate school.
Program Director
Jane O'Brien
obrie093@umn.edu
612-625-3885
ITA Courses
The ITA Program offers 4 courses for international teaching assistants:
- Foundations
- 5102
- 5105
- IT: TALK
Language & Teaching Consultations
Individual consultations are available to instructors who wish to enhance their spoken language proficiency or discuss strategies for teaching students in the U.S.
Center for Teaching and Learning
- 315 Science Classroom Building
- 222 Pleasant Street S.E.
- Minneapolis, MN 55455
- 612-625-3041
- 612-625-3382 (fax)
- teachlrn@umn.edu
