NC.ESL-4A-83690 - Intermediate High A - Najla Yagan Akel

Introduction

My name is Najla Yagan Akel, your guide and instructor for this course. Born and raised in Syria, with a background in English literature and TESOL, I’ve spent over 21 years in the professional world, with more than 13 years dedicated to teaching English as a foreign/second language. I’ve taught students of various ages, proficiency levels, and cultural backgrounds, both in-person and remotely, in Syria and the United States.

I have been teaching at College of the Canyons for over two years. I’m passionate about helping you build your language skills and am committed to supporting you in achieving your goals and overcoming any obstacles in your language learning journey.

Course Description

The course aims to develop English skills at the Intermediate High level through listening, speaking, reading and writing, including grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary and everyday life situations.
 

What to Expect in this Course

Students can expect a manageable weekly workload that includes participating in live sessions, completing homework assignments, and preparing for quizzes.

You will need an electronic device such as a computer, laptop, iPad, or smartphone to access Zoom for our synchronous meetings and Canvas for course materials, announcements, and homework. Ensure your device has a functioning webcam and microphone, as these are essential for active participation in our online sessions.

Types of Assessments

Throughout the course, you will complete homework assignments, quizzes, and a comprehensive final exam. These assessments are designed to evaluate and support the development of your English skills and overall understanding of the material covered in class. You must score 70% in the final exam to receive a PASS score for this course.

Textbook Information

For levels 4A and 4B, we will use Top Notch 2, 3rd edition.

Other Relevant Course Information

To succeed in this course, it’s important to stay engaged and make the most of our live sessions. Since this is an online course, please ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet space for participating in class.

Please make it a habit to check Canvas regularly for announcements and updates. If you encounter any technical difficulties with Canvas or Zoom, please reach out to me as soon as possible so we can resolve any issues quickly.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 02/08/2025 Sub#: 1905