What courses are offered for prospective GSIs who do not speak English as a native language?
The GSI Teaching & Resource Center’s Language Proficiency Program offers LAN PRO 380 (Language Proficiency Workshop) to prospective GSIs who do not speak English as a native language and do not receive a passing score on the TOEFL speaking section, the IELTs, or the OPT. The course is designed to improve the oral English skills you will need as a classroom teacher.

LAN PRO 380 is listed in the Schedule of Classes under the department name “Language Proficiency Program.” This course provides two units, and it is graded on a “Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory” basis.

This workshop focuses on the development of English language competence necessary for effective communication as a teacher in a UC Berkeley classroom. Prospective GSIs give recorded presentations in front of their peers, participate in discussions on issues of language and teaching, engage in activities to improve oral communication skills, and receive individualized feedback and instruction. The course meets three hours per week with an additional weekly conference section. Students enrolled in LAN PRO 380 take the OPT at the end of the course.

Should I sign up for the Language Proficiency Workshop (LAN PRO 380)?
If you want to become a GSI, but received a score of 20 or below on the TOEFL iBT Speaking section, a score of 6 or below on the the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test Speaking section, or a non-passing score on the OPT you should plan to take LAN PRO 380 for at least one semester. Students who received a score of 21 or 22 on the the TOEFL iBT Speaking section, or score of 6.5 on the IELTS speaking section may choose to enroll in LAN PRO 380 before taking the OPT. In order to enroll in LAN PRO 380, please complete the Language Proficiency Questionnaire. Based on your responses on the Questionnaire or your OPT test score, you will receive instructions by email on how to enroll in LAN PRO 380.

What other support is available?

The Language Proficiency Program offers confidential one-on-one consultations to prospective and current GSIs who wish to improve their oral English proficiency and classroom communication skills. To arrange an individual consultation, contact Laurie Frazier, Assistant Director for Language Proficiency, at [email protected] or schedule a Consultation Appointment at your convenience.

For additional information, please contact:
Language Proficiency Program
[email protected]