This unique class offers students of intermediate to advanced speaking ability the opportunity to use and practice their English as they explore American history, government, customs and culture and the St. Louis community.

"This exciting class helps students improve their conversational skills as they experience St. Louis -- their new community," says Margie Summers, Instructional Team Leader of the AEL program.

Students study politics and government, education, health, legal rights and responsibilities, and consumer education.

“I enrolled in the class to learn about how Americans live and about American culture and customs,?says student Yi Tang. “I have also made many friends from different countries, and I feel that as I improve my English, I will have the chance to make more friends.?The class involves the students with the community and the community with the students. A wide variety of guest speakers come to the classroom, and the class goes on frequent field trips to see the St. Louis community and its institutions in action.

Visitors to the class include the mayor of University City, a police officer, a judge, a nutritionist, and representatives from the League of Women Voters and the Better Business Bureau.

Students visit City Hall, the County Courts Building, museums, hospitals and other important locations around St. Louis.

“These experiences enable students to be informed, active members of the community and achieve success in and out of the classroom,?says teacher Holly Tasker.

Many students feel the class has given them the courage to interact more with Americans in everyday situations. Hanna Lei recalls how hesitant she was to approach Americans when she first arrived here from China. Now, she says, “I am no longer afraid to talk to Americans or make telephone calls in English.?

English, The American Way! meets Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings, 9 am to 12 noon, in the University City Library Auditorium (6701 Delmar Blvd.) beginning September 12, 2005.

The class is free. Interested students are encouraged to register at the University City Library Auditorium on August 29th or 31st or September 7th or 9th from 10 am to 12 noon, or at a regularly scheduled class.

The University City AEL Program continues to offer English classes for all levels in the morning, afternoon and evening at its school building at 8324 Delcrest Drive. For information, call (314) 432-0633.