English Language Classes

English Language Skills Essential for Success

By Fairfax County, June 2001

In December 2000, Fairfax County published the results of an extensive survey of eight different immigrant ethnic groups in the county. Following are some of the key findings of this lengthy survey. To no great surprise, the inability to speak English is a barrier to social and civic interaction as well as to better jobs with higher pay and benefits. It is interesting to note that most immigrants recognize this barrier and would like the opportunity to learn English.

Survey Results

English skills and economic prosperity go hand in hand. Immigrants who enter the United States with the ability to speak English are better positioned to adjust to life in America and have an economic advantage over those who are not able to speak English. Immigrants who speak English well or very well are much more likely to feel that the people of the United States make their families feel welcome.

Most language groups feel that they have made considerable progress of their ability to speak English. Still, nearly 2/3 of the respondents report that at least one member of their household wants to take classes in English. Of the five regions surveyed, Westlawn is in the region that had the highest demand for English classes (73% overall), with about 84% of Spanish-speaking residents showing interest compared to only 40% for Vietnamese immigrants. The desire to take English classes includes immigrants who have been in the United States for a considerable amount of time.

The vast majority of immigrant households are in need of English classes when they enter the United States. Nearly 95% of the Spanish-speaking households and 88% of the Vietnamese households report that their most English-proficient parent/ guardian had little or no ability to speak English before coming to the United States.

Spanish-speaking households (36%), Vietnamese (29%), and Somali (28%) households are most likely to include relatives. Spanish-speaking households (17%) are the most likely to include unrelated persons living with them. Immigrant households often take in boarders to assist them in paying the rent or mortgage. Kurdish (56%) and Spanish-speaking households (46%) are the most likely of all the language groups to send money to relatives in their country of origin.

Almost all of the respondents report that the traditions of the country they came from are important to them. Interestingly, most immigrants (87%) also place value on the traditions of the United States and feel that these traditions are important to their children. Most of the responding immigrants feel that life is better for their family in the United States than it would have been in their country of origin.

English as a Second Language for Adults

Phone: 703-714-5560 Fax: 703-714-5589

Classes at Willston Multicultural Center, 6131 Willston Drive, Falls Church, VA 22044

  • Classes are provided for foreign-born adults learning English as a second language.

  • Classes prepare adults to function in English as students, workers, parents, and citizens.

  • Classes offered from Beginning to Advanced levels.

  • Limited number of reduced tuition spaces are available

Call now to find out when the next term begins!