A. COMPUTER LITERACY

This is an introductory course which deals with what a computer is, how it works and what it can do. It covers how to effectively use computers as a learning and problem solving tool.

The students get familiar with computer hardware, learn how to operate and care for a computer system with primary focus on the IBM/MS and Macintosh disk operating system (DOS). Students are taught how to care for PC diskettes, diskette drives and hard drives.

Most of the instructions are "hands-on" approach using IBM, IBM Compatible and Macintosh personal computers.

B. KEYBOARDING

This course provides hands on training in keyboarding and typing using Typing Tutor software on Macintosh and IBM.

C. SPECIAL TUTORING

After a screening or practice GED test, the student who is found weak in some subject areas is advised to use the Learning Skills Center to work on his lesson at his own pace. The ABE Program shares the cost of one part time tutor at the center.

D. LIFE SKILLS SEMINAR

In addition to the regular academic skills, the program has deemed to offer the students life skills in order for them to cope with the demands of daily living.

The program contracted a community based organization, "Karidat" to conduct a four-day life skills seminar to cover topics such as Resume Preparation, Job Interview, Verbal and non-verbal Communication, Grooming, Health and Hygiene, Job Search in the government and private sector, drugs and their consequences, positive self image, positive steps to the future. The same life skill seminar afforded prospective employers to meet and interview prospective employees.

E. GENERAL SCIENCE LABORATORY BOOKLET

A science booklet, a product of two years' work, has been compiled. These compiled materials will be edited, formatted, and bound for the use of the ABE students. As a living document, this compilation will soon evolve to become the Science Workbook for the ABE Students.

F. GED REVIEW

The ABE program has created a forty-five (45)-hour course to focus on the actual GED testing. Through this course the program reiterates its commitment to helping the adult students prepare for the tests. An initial diagnostic test in each subject area determines the present strength and areas in need of improvement. The course gives the students a quick run through of the skills and content in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies depending on the diagnosed area for improvement. The course ends with a simulated battery of tests giving the students an experience very similar to taking the actual GED tests. The Program realizes that success in taking the tests is dependent on preparation, stock of knowledge, latent skills, as well as the absence of excess anxiety. The GED Review course hopes to minimize, if not totally remove, the students' anxiety during the taking of the tests.

G. ESL and LITERACY CLASSES

The clients of the ABE Program have become more and more varied in terms of needs and previous educational background. To the number of regular local students whose basic need is to learn to read and write, a number of Micronesian students and Asian wives of American and Chamorro or Carolinian husbands have been added. The latter clients have even a greater need for language acquisition and literacy. To address more effectively the individual needs of students, the Program has created two (2) basic classes. A regular Integrated Basic Class offers literacy course with content materials in science, social studies, and mathematics. This course prepares the students for the Pre-GED courses. A special ESL class handles language acquisition and prereading. An ESL curriculum that recognizes three (3) levels of English fluency and proficiency is in the process of development and writing. Level A places students who are beginning students of English. Level B places

students who may have some knowledge of the language but who wish to be more fluent in the language. Level C places students who are fluent but need to learn grammar and the technicalities of the written language.

H. CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

Three instructors are presently writing curriculum materials for ESL, GED Writing and GED Mathematics.

The ESL curriculum will take into serious consideration the three (3) identified levels of fluency and proficiency of our adult learners, namely levels A, B, and C.

The GED Writing curriculum focuses on the various areas where our students find difficulty.

The GED Mathematics curriculum will contain various methods and techniques that will help our students overcome their fear of mathematics. Exercises and word problems will relate to their day to day experiences.