Dear Reader, 

Thank you for taking the time to review our services. Bridge Business English is a program we have developed to provide effective and efficient training in Business English, the language of the international workplace.

Emphasis is placed on vocabulary development in critical communication areas, clarifying enunciation, developing presentation skills, and increasing knowledge in strategic business thinking through our study materials. Language training material is too often banal, focusing on vocabulary development without offering anything in the way of useful knowledge. Too many Business English textbooks are designed with teenagers in mind and are not appropriate for the adult learner, who often has many years of professional experience in her field.

To my delight, I've discovered that students have a wealth of international experience, and would love to share their knowledge but simply lack the confidence and vocabulary to express themselves in English. Thus, on top of essential workplace language functions, we use business case studies, consumer psychology, and strategic analysis readings as the basis of our course and focus of presentations, board meetings, and discussions. The articles are fascinating and impart real knowledge that students are eager to discuss and relate to their own experiences. The material is educational and relevant, centering on problem solving methods, analytical tools, and trend analysis. Vocabulary building occurs "under the radar" and grammar, structure, and pronounciation problems are dealt with ad hoc as they are encountered and more formally in the individualized Writing Workshop. Class time is not burdened by material that is not relevant to the entire group. 

As an instructor, I do not have a keyboard attached to the student's brain through which to input and save new vocabulary. The student must do all the learning herself. I am the guide whose main task is to encourage the student to make the effort, just as a coach motivates the athlete to persist. I have found the best way to do this is to use the most interesting material available, that which teaches students how to be more successful, how to add value within their organizations so that they may be recognized and praised for their achievements.

90% of language learning is remembering new words. This is the truth. This can be done painfully or pleasurably. We have opted for the latter path. To ensure that vocabulary is retained, we have made the most of technology - all new vocabulary is tracked and tested daily via emailed tests. Errors are included in the next test until the student stops making them. Everyone receives a score and rank. Again, class time is not burdened with testing.

Students leave with much more than improved communication skills. They leave with new ways of looking at problems, new analytical tools, and increased confidence in their ability to overcome challenges.

If you have any questions about our teaching program, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be happy to discuss your needs.

Sincerely,

Jan Waginski