NCESL 052 - American Language and Culture Through Music - Yichen He

Introduction

Hello, my name is Jenny, and I will be your ESL instructor for this course. I’m originally from Taiwan and speak both English and Chinese. I’ve been living in the United States since 2004 and moved to Santa Clarita in 2009.

Course Description

In this class, we will listen to popular American pop music and use it as a starting point for discussion. First, we’ll look at the lyrics and make sure we understand the meaning. Then, we may practice some grammar and sentence structure. Eventually, we’ll move into ESL conversation activities. Think of this as an ESL conversation class where we also enjoy music and have fun discussions together.

What to Expect in this Course

Every week, we will listen to a new piece of music. It may be by artists like Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, the Beatles, or Elton John. Please come to class with an open mind, be ready to listen to different styles of music, and have some fun. We’ll learn language and culture through enjoyable music activities.

Types of Assessments

At the end of the class, the assessment will be a short presentation. You will choose one piece of music we studied in class and give a brief presentation explaining how the music relates to you or why it has special meaning for you.

Textbook Information

There is no textbook required for this class. All handouts and materials will be provided. Please bring a file folder to organize your materials and come to class with a ready-to-learn attitude.

Other Relevant Course Information

It’s going to be a fun class where we practice ESL conversation, listen to music, and enjoy engaging discussions. I can’t wait to learn and have fun with you, and I look forward to seeing everyone in class.

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)

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Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

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Online Counseling

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Management of Stress and Mental Health

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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

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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: 12/19/2025 Sub#: 1993 Sub ID: 205997