EAL Conversation Groups engage intermediate to advanced English language learners in constructive activities that support ongoing language development.  Because many participants interact with few native English speakers, this program provides a critical opportunity to practice spontaneous, spoken English in a supportive group setting.

Conversation Groups give participants a chance to …

• expand their vocabulary
• speak English more confidently
• increase their understanding of U.S. norms and customs
• make valuable connections with other English language learners in their community

Please note: For the health and comfort of our group program learners and volunteers, English At Large has instituted a Health Policy. Vaccinations against COVID-19 are not required to participate in EAL Programs. For more information, please refer to the EAL Group Program Health Policies. 

EAL runs Conversation Groups on a trimester schedule; new groups begin in February, May and September each year.  Up to 26 different groups in 16 different communities are run concurrently, varied in time of day and location, to make learning accessible and convenient.  The groups engage up to 350 learners each semester; many are graduates of the tutoring program and enroll in groups for several consecutive semesters.

EAL partners with Tufts University student volunteers to offer Beginner English classes to learners in Medford and surrounding communities.  The Beginner curriculum fills a real need for “survival English” instruction.  Students learn basic English communication, including how to give personal information, navigate their communities, and talk about their daily activities.  

Classes are facilitated by Tufts student volunteers through the school’s community service program.  These students are enthusiastic teachers who devote two evenings each week during the academic year (September to May) to the Beginner classes.  EAL provides student volunteers with a full Beginner curriculum, initial training, and support and mentoring throughout the year.  Since its inception, 60 learners have completed the program.  

EAL offers a Beginner English Class for refugees who may be unfamiliar with the American (Roman) alphabet. This 12-week, online course provides instruction in basic English used everyday, as well as information about local resources and activities common in daily American life. The curriculum is designed for Beginner English learners who have literacy skills in their native language. The class meets twice each week for 12 weeks, and helps newcomers build the foundational skills they need to enroll in a traditional English class.

This is an online class, and is offered to learners who live anywhere in Massachusetts.  

This class is offered at least once a year, based on current need and interest. To refer yourself or someone else to the program, please complete this interest form: 

Questions? Please call EAL staff at 781-395-2374

EAL hosts Book Groups during the summer at public libraries in our service area. Book Groups provide opportunities for intermediate to advanced English language learners to practice reading, speaking, and writing skills.  Groups of 8-10 learners meet with their facilitator and group each week for 1.5 hours, for a 6-week session.  Participants read the assigned text, prepare talking points in advance, and take an active role in leading the discussion. Book Group Facilitators attend a one-time, two-hour EAL training workshop, and use materials to explore story concepts, word use, composition, and cultural comparisons.

Past EAL Book Groups have read The Alchemist, The #1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, and The Giver, as well as a collection of classic American short stories.