English as a Second Language (ESL)

Instruction By
Refugee and Immigration Services

Refugee and Immigration Services offers free community based classes that empowers immigrants with basic English skills to live and work. RIS serves the Richmond Metro, Hampton Roads, and Roanoke Valley areas in Virginia.

Goal of the ESL Program

Our goal is to help refugees and immigrants develop English language skills in order to become economically and socially self-sufficient.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Class Levels

English Instruction for Beginners
Intermediate ESL
Advanced ESL
Citizenship Test Preparation

Immigrants interested in taking an ESL class should call the local RIS office that is nearest them for more information.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

ESL Teaching Opportunities

Group ESL tutoring for immigrants from many different countries.

English instruction at work sites

Small ESL classes arranged to meet specific needs.

Home tutoring for recently arrived refugees from around the globe.

Tutoring just Summer ESL classes.

ESL Tutor Requirements

Qualifications are informal, but important. Volunteer ESL tutors mainly need an interest in teaching English, patience, and cultural sensitivity. But they must commit to completeing each ESL class that they start. Training is provided free of charge. In addition, being bilingual is not a requirement.

ESL Tutor Time Commitment

A realistic time commitment for an ESL tutor is a minimum of 3 months (renewable), 2-4 hours per week.

What does RIS provide for the ESL tutors?

RIS provides a training workshop, teaching materials, and practical work experience. Text books, consultation, and follow-up will be provided by the ESL Education Coordinator.

What are the responsibilities of an ESL tutor at RIS?

Responsibilities of an ESL tutor include the following:

Teaching English as a second language to an individual or small group of adult newcomers.

Performing periodic assessment of students' ESL level/progress, and submitting monthly ESL progress reports to the ESL Education Coordinator.

Contacting the ESL Education Coordinator when there will be an extended break in the tutoring process due to illness, vacaction, etc.

Giving at least 2 weeks notice prior to ending ESL tutoring.

How to Become a RIS Volunteer

Additional ESL Links and Resources

o Things to Think About for Tutors of ESL - Seven quick hints are given regarding ESL students, lesson styles, grammar, etc.
o Dave's ESL Café - There isn't much that you can't find at this site devoted to ESL. There are lesson plan ideas, activities, and many other ESL ideas.
o Virginia Adult Education and Literacy Centers - This agency has its own list of ESL links and resources; in addition, you can also download a copy of their ESL Starter Kit from the online publications page.