The Writing Center @ CAPS

English as a Second Language

The University setting presents unique challenges to students for whom the language of instruction is not a first language. For UNM students who are not native speakers of English, the task of mastering the content of a course is tied up with learning to read critically, communicate clearly, and write effectively in a language other than the one he or she is accustomed to speaking, writing, and thinking in. In a visit (or series of visits) to the Writing Center @ CAPS, ESL students can get assistance with any of the issues that they face in their courses at UNM, as well as practice using the language in a relaxed, peer-to-peer situation.

Students who bring in writing that they're currently working on can get feedback on grammar and clarity, and also general suggestions on what general issues they might work in their writing.

Often, one of the most confusing aspects of writing in a second language is the different conventions for writing that exist in different cultures. Standards for evaluating writing can be very different in different countries, and even across groups within a single diverse area such as New Mexico. Common assignments such as academic essays can be very confusing for students who are unfamiliar with these conventions, and a visit to the Writing Center can focus on these conventions.

CAPS writing tutors can also help ESL students with understanding readings, as well as general strategies for reading comprehension.