This fun and interactive course is for students who want to increase their skill and confidence in both speaking and understanding American English in an environment where we can all make mistakes and help each other. Reading the textbook and handouts, we will learn many aspects of both American and local Boston culture and traditions. Through dialogues, readings and class pair and small group exercises - including role plays such as making phone calls, ordering in a restaurant, speaking with landlords, doctors, school teachers, etc. - we will focus on gaining new vocabulary, common American Idioms and expressions to feel increasingly comfortable speaking and being understood both in and outside the classroom. Throughout our discussions and activities, we will emphasize pronunciation for clearer communication. Grammar will be reviewed as necessary. The required text is Celebrate the American Way: A Fun ESL Guide to English Language and Culture in the U.S.