IH Bristol offers a comprehensive range of General English Courses, at their Queens Avenue building in Clifton, Bristol. These courses focus on improving communication skills, integrating grammar and vocabulary with practical application in speaking, reading, writing, and listening. Students use the language in real-world contexts both inside and outside the classroom, enhancing their overall proficiency and confidence.

Course Structure and Expectations

The General English courses at IH Bristol are designed to help students develop all essential language skills and acquire the cultural knowledge necessary for living in the UK and using English internationally. Each 45-minute class introduces at least five new language elements, promoting practical, effective, and natural communication. The courses are available in two formats: 15 hours per week and 22.5 hours per week, accommodating up to 12 students per class with a minimum of two different teachers for diverse instructional perspectives.

Daily Learning Highlights

Students are immersed in English from day one, regardless of their proficiency level. The curriculum includes a 'Cultural Question' segment, providing new grammar and vocabulary on different topics daily, encouraging cultural exchange among students. Additionally, the 'English Phrase of the Day' teaches idiomatic expressions commonly used by native speakers but often absent from traditional coursebooks, helping students sound more natural in their conversations.

Friendly and Dynamic Teaching Environment

The instructors at IH Bristol are known for their friendly and patient approach. They employ a variety of exercises and methods to keep the classes dynamic and engaging. Students benefit from regular progress assessments, ensuring they feel their improvement from the moment they arrive.

Course Options

1. General English 30 Lessons (Morning & Afternoon)

   • Schedule: 22.5 hours per week, combining morning and afternoon sessions.
   • Morning Sessions: Use a general English coursebook to balance skills, vocabulary, and grammar, incorporating the Phrase of the Day and Cultural Question for enriched learning.
   • Afternoon Sessions: Focus on skills and fluency, with activities designed to enhance reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

2. General English 20 Lessons (Morning Only)

   • Schedule: 15 hours per week, with morning sessions identical to those in the 30 Lessons course.
   • Afternoons: Students have the option for free self-study or exploring Bristol with friends. A supervised study room is available for those seeking additional support.

Beginners' Course

The Beginners' courses mirror the structure of the General English courses, requiring a placement test to determine the appropriate level. These courses have fixed start dates and require a minimum of four students to commence. The syllabus covers various language areas, including topics like life in the UK, grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and the four fundamental skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Free Extras and Additional Support

Enrolled students enjoy numerous complimentary benefits, such as access to an online e-learning platform, free course materials for specific courses, daily homework, and regular pronunciation help. The study room is open daily with a tutor available for extra support, and students can participate in a weekly conversation club to practice their English in a social setting.

Optional Modules

Students can customise their learning experience by adding supplementary courses to their General English programme. Options include General English combined with IELTS preparation, Cambridge exam preparation, or One-to-One English lessons.

For those interested in advancing their English skills in a supportive and immersive environment, IH Bristol provides an ideal setting. Contact IH Bristol today for more details on their General Intensive Courses and begin your journey to English proficiency.