Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) PK-Twelve: Undergraduate Licensure Program


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Coordinator: Dr. Katya Koubek
Phone: (540) 568-6760
Email: koubekex@jmu.edu

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

The Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program is designed to enable students to complete the TESOL non-licensure minor or the TESOL PK-12 licensure. Both programs prepare students to work effectively in promoting English language acquisition of children and adults who are not native English speakers. These programs also promote development of skills in cross-cultural competence and draw heavily upon theories of linguistics, research on social and cultural variables that influence second language acquisition, and the knowledge required to facilitate second language learning.

Candidates currently enrolled in initial teaching licensure programs may be able to complete the TESOL requirements in conjunction with completing their other preparation program. With careful planning, dual licensure is possible. Candidates interested in dual licensure should consult with the TESOL coordinator and the other program area adviser for more information.

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) PK-Twelve: Undergraduate Licensure Program


James Madison University’s College of Education , through the Educational Foundations and Exceptionalities Department  (EFEX) offers licensure preparation for PK-12 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This program draws on theories of linguistics, research on social and cultural variables that influence second language acquisition and the knowledge required to facilitate second language learning. The TESOL program will prepare future educators to understand and implement more equitable and effective ways of working with English Language Learners in a variety of contexts, including inclusion in content/general education classes, sheltered-ESL classes and pullout classes.

Completion of this four-year program leads to eligibility for a Virginia teaching license for PK-12 English as a Second Language.

The College of Education ’s TESOL Program is interested in candidates who are committed to social justice and to creating affirming and academically challenging learning environments. Candidates must also complete a major in a liberal arts discipline closely associated with a teaching area (e.g., biology, history, mathematics, psychology, chemistry, English, etc. but not business administration, nursing, engineering, etc.).

Students considering PK-12 initial licensure in TESOL follow the process described below. Students pursuing initial licensure in other approved areas may also be admitted to the TESOL Program and simultaneously achieve initial licensure in TESOL.

All teacher education admission requirements are submitted through the Education Support Center, located in Memorial Hall, room 7230. Candidates must be fully admitted into teacher education before they can register for certain designated undergraduate education courses.

Teacher education candidates must maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 or better and complete general education courses with a minimum grade of “C.” Candidates must also complete academic major content courses and TESOL course work with a minimum grade of “C.”  

Recommended Schedule for TESOL


Total: 16 Credit Hours


Additional Information


It is strongly recommended that Professional Education Courses be taken prior to the TESOL Core Requirements.For students obtaining licensure in other areas, many of the professional education courses will be the same.In most cases, student teaching can be combined with other licensure areas and completed in one semester.

TESOL Core Requirements


Total: 33-45 Credit Hours


Student Teaching


Candidates must apply to student teach one year prior to their student teaching semester. At that time, students must be fully accepted into teacher education, be admitted unconditionally to graduate school and have a 3.0 graduate GPA.

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