Breaking Down the Language Barrier
Acellus Discover English
The Acellus “Discover English” course is a revolutionary answer to a problem facing many
educators today. The number of ESL students in schools across the nation has grown exponentially
over the last few years. “The percentage of public school students in the United States who were
ELLs was higher in school year 2014–15 (9.4 percent, or an estimated 4.6 million students) than in
2004–05 (9.1 percent, or an estimated 4.3 million students) and 2013–14 (9.3 percent, or an
estimated 4.5 million students.” (National Center for Education Statistics, US Department of
Education). With the increased population of ESL/ELL students, the demand has grown exponentially
for courses to teach these students the English language, and the communication skills needed to
thrive in school and the workforce. Schools are faced with the challenge of educating students that
do not speak English, but speak a wide variety of languages.
Discover English was developed for students in ESL Programs, and is ideal for students from any
ethnic background learning the English language. This course utilizes the Universal Interaction
Technique developed by Dr. Roger Billings, so that the same course can simultaneously support
students of various native tongues. This course is the first in a series of three courses.
Discover English incorporates the syntax, vocabulary and pronunciation needed to comprehend
English in an everyday environment. This course is ideal for students learning English for the
first time, or for an ESL student needing extra practice and help. Discover English can be used
in a stand-alone environment or to supplement teacher instruction in the classroom in a blended
learning environment. Teachers using Discover English report rapid gains in understanding and a
reduction of the “silent period” most ESL students go through.
Watch Sample Lesson