Hybrid ESL Classes

NEW! 

This spring TJACE@PVCC is offering new ESL hybrid classes. Hybrid classes present a mix of in-person and online learning.

ESL Hybrid classes run January 20 – May 28, 2026. Spring breaks are March 9-12, and April 6-10. There is no class on Memorial Day.

*After enrolling for class at TJACE, fees can be paid in cash, by check or credit card at the PVCC cashier’s office in The Bolick Center, room B222. Pay with a credit card by calling 434-961-5212. You will be fully registered at the time of payment. There are no refunds.

Intermediate ESL Civics Course

This intermediate-level ESL course helps learners build strong English communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of U.S. civics. Students will expand their vocabulary, improve reading and listening, comprehension, and practice speaking and writing through real-world civic topics such as community services, government structure, rights and responsibilities, local resources, and everyday civic participation.

This hybrid course includes 3 hours of in-person instruction each week and 2 hours of online learning, providing both structured classroom interaction and flexible online practice. Through authentic materials — news articles, public service information, forms, and short videos — students develop the language needed to engage confidently in their communities.

Class activities include discussions, role-plays, collaborative projects, and practical tasks such as navigating public agencies, understanding community notices, and expressing opinions on civic issues.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Use intermediate English to discuss civic topics and community issues
• Understand essential information from common civic documents and media
• Communicate effectively with community organizations and public services
• Demonstrate increased confidence participating in civic life. This course is ideal for learners who already have a foundational command of English and want to strengthen their language skills while becoming more informed, active members of their community.

Advanced ESL: Career Pathways & Employability Skills

This advanced-level ESL course is designed for English learners who want to strengthen their language proficiency while preparing for career advancement. Through real-world workplace scenarios, professional communication practice, and targeted skill-building activities, students develop the language and competencies needed for success in today’s job market.

The class meets 3 hours in person and 2 hours online each week, offering a flexible hybrid format that supports both guided instruction and independent practice.

Learners explore a variety of career pathways, practice job-search strategies, and build confidence in essential employability skills such as interviewing, resume writing, teamwork, digital literacy, and professional problem-solving. The course emphasizes both spoken and written communication used in professional settings, including emails, presentations, and workplace interactions.

By the end of the course, students will be able to express themselves clearly and effectively in diverse workplace environments and demonstrate the language and soft skills needed to pursue their career goals.

Book Club

In the TJACE Book Club, participants read an American novel, working through the book together. Page by page, you will expand your vocabulary and dig deeply into the text for meaning and understanding. The task is challenging, but your reading builds community and helps you learn more about this country and its language. Join the club to make friends and allow a book to change how you see yourself in this world. Book Club will meet: January 28, February 11, 25, March 18, April 1,15,29 or May 6.

Student Book Club Reviews

“Because I’m on the way to struggling with my English skills, the TJACE Book Club is like a group, a home, where I feel comfortable, to be understood, and embraced, as a word, feel ‘safe.’ When following the reading process, I can learn how to understand a specific word, listen to other people with different accents, and get what the book expresses.” ~ Wei

“TJACE Book Club helps me continue improving my English. Three great options are available during the book club - reading, listening, and speaking. Influenced by a book club, I have started to read a few non-fiction books in English, read various articles with much greater confidence, and have a chance to return to reading fiction books. Especially supportive and inspiring are meaningful ideas from the books and thoughtful conversations. Because of that, I am learning about the country I live in now. It is very interesting to me and helps me to adapt. Also, the book club has contributed to strengthening some of my friendships!” ~ Giedre