UK expert all praise for language skills of Indians
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More students opting for ESOL examination
For Trinity, India emerging market
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EXPRESSION MATTERS: Ben McDonald, examiner from Trinity College London, conducting Graded Examinations in Spoken English for students at HMK Public School on Saturday.
VIJAYAWADA: The quality of English spoken in India is much superior to what it is in some of the European countries, according to Ben McDonald, an examiner with Trinity College, London.
Mr. McDonald was speaking to The Hindu on Saturday, taking some time off from the task for which he had come all the way from London: to conduct the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) for about 60 students of two schools at HMK Public School, Gosala, near here.The GESE is part of the Trinity College's English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) examinations, which are fast catching the attention of many young students who are keen on getting an endorsement for their language skills.
Mr. McDonald, who has a long experience of testing the spoken English skills of students of various levels in different countries, said: "This is my first visit to India as an examiner, and I must say I'm really impressed by the English language skills of Indians."
Pointing out that the number of people who could speak English in India was more than what it was in the UK, Mr. McDonald said that this fact should give intonation of Indian English some legitimacy.
"Indian accent is a music in itself. Indians definitely use much less slang than others, and there is also some formality and politeness in the way it is spoken, which, I think, comes from the cultural milieu of Indians," he felt.
Mr. McDonald said it was gratifying to see more and more schools and students opting for ESOL examinations of Trinity College, and the phenomenon was no longer limited to metro cities and State capitals, which it was when ESOL made an entry into India first time in September 2004.
What began with just 485 students reached a stage where about 4,000 students were taking a shot at both GESE and the other part of ESOL, i.e. Integrated Skills in English Examination (ISE).
For Trinity, India was an emerging market along with China.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Candidates breeze through ESOL test, The Hindu 19Nov06
Test comprises GESE and ISE tests
CHENNAI: Examinations usually build up tension and increase blood pressure levels in students. But, students who took London Trinity College's English aptitude test on Friday appeared cool.
The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) test, comprising the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) test and the Integrated Skills in English (ISE) test, assesses a candidate's prowess in spoken English and his or her integrated skills in English (ISE), such as speaking, writing, listening and learning abilities.
"The test helps us to know our writing and speaking skills. Unlike other exams this is done mainly in a conversational mode and helps bring out all our talent," said Kalathmika, a Standard XI student who took the test.
"The method makes it interesting. We can choose a topic and discuss it with the examiner. There would be discussions on general matters and also on our writings. This help us to research, organise, structure and communicate our ideas more effectively," said Nithya Ragavan, an ISE test candidate.
According to A.P. Latha, co-ordinator of the examinations, in Chennai, 24 students appeared for the ESOL tests this year including 14 for the GESE and 11 for the ISE. GESE has 12 levels and ISE has four levels. Students can choose their levels.
"A pass in the test equips us with an international certification that would immensely help students going abroad for studies or jobs," said Nandana, a Standard VIII student. "For me language is a passion. I am a working woman and these type of exams which test the flair for language help me to work more and study lot in English," said Mini, who works with Oasis Tours in Chennai.
Orient Longman is the national manager of the ESOL exams in India. The exams were introduced in India three years ago.
CHENNAI: Examinations usually build up tension and increase blood pressure levels in students. But, students who took London Trinity College's English aptitude test on Friday appeared cool.
The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) test, comprising the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) test and the Integrated Skills in English (ISE) test, assesses a candidate's prowess in spoken English and his or her integrated skills in English (ISE), such as speaking, writing, listening and learning abilities.
"The test helps us to know our writing and speaking skills. Unlike other exams this is done mainly in a conversational mode and helps bring out all our talent," said Kalathmika, a Standard XI student who took the test.
"The method makes it interesting. We can choose a topic and discuss it with the examiner. There would be discussions on general matters and also on our writings. This help us to research, organise, structure and communicate our ideas more effectively," said Nithya Ragavan, an ISE test candidate.
According to A.P. Latha, co-ordinator of the examinations, in Chennai, 24 students appeared for the ESOL tests this year including 14 for the GESE and 11 for the ISE. GESE has 12 levels and ISE has four levels. Students can choose their levels.
"A pass in the test equips us with an international certification that would immensely help students going abroad for studies or jobs," said Nandana, a Standard VIII student. "For me language is a passion. I am a working woman and these type of exams which test the flair for language help me to work more and study lot in English," said Mini, who works with Oasis Tours in Chennai.
Orient Longman is the national manager of the ESOL exams in India. The exams were introduced in India three years ago.
Friday, July 28, 2006
MIND YOUR LANGUAGE: Clinton Rae making a point, The Hindu 21-Jul-06
In association with Orient Longman, Trinity College, London, has been conducting examinations to assess English-speaking skills among students of Indian schools for many decades. These examinations are aimed at testing proficiency levels under the "English for Speakers of Other Languages"(ESOL) programme. From Std. I to plus II, Trinity conducts "Graded Examinations in Spoken English."
Enhancing experience
The special feature of these examinations is that the college sends its examiners from England to conduct the tests at the respective schools. A qualified native English speaker flies down to give a test to local students. Such an experience enhances the confidence of the students who feel self-assured wherever they go.
Clinton Rae, director of language examinations, Trinity College London, says that their examiners personally visit `your colleges' to make the examinations a lively affair. Trinity believes in conducting "live examinations" with the help of examiners who come down from London.
During a recent visit to India, Mr. Rae made a presentation to principals of several local schools. Some of them pointed out that the examination fee, which worked out to nearly Rs. 5,000 per student, could be a discouraging factor for the students and their parents. Mr. Rae maintained that the fee has been fixed as per the logistics involved and the fact that Trinity sends its examiners from London is by itself a costly affair. "Over a century ago, Trinity College London sent its first group of examiners to assess skills of music-learners in India. Imagine how they would have come to India? Naturally, they took a sea route," he pointed out.
Mr. Rae says that Trinity's reputation in conducting skill assessment tests has a long history and it focuses on giving a direction to learners. A certificate from Trinity would help one establish his proficiency level anywhere in the world.
The Trinity examiners are affable, pleasing and easy-going. They are trained to greet the examinees with a smile and make them feel free to communicate. While treating the beginners, the examiners engage them in a free-flowing conversation to bring out the best of their language skills.
A recording of an examination in spoken English skills attempted by an Italian schoolgirl was screened for the local principals. Though the girl had an Italian accent while speaking English, she was able to make sense.
Her grammar was not perfect but she could reply to all the questions posed by the examiner. When asked to spell out her favourite topic for a lively discussion, she said that it was a friend of hers.
The examiner spoke to her about her likes and dislikes and the girl was seen participating in the discussion without much inhibition.
The student's questioning ability was also put to test.
Enhancing experience
The special feature of these examinations is that the college sends its examiners from England to conduct the tests at the respective schools. A qualified native English speaker flies down to give a test to local students. Such an experience enhances the confidence of the students who feel self-assured wherever they go.
Clinton Rae, director of language examinations, Trinity College London, says that their examiners personally visit `your colleges' to make the examinations a lively affair. Trinity believes in conducting "live examinations" with the help of examiners who come down from London.
During a recent visit to India, Mr. Rae made a presentation to principals of several local schools. Some of them pointed out that the examination fee, which worked out to nearly Rs. 5,000 per student, could be a discouraging factor for the students and their parents. Mr. Rae maintained that the fee has been fixed as per the logistics involved and the fact that Trinity sends its examiners from London is by itself a costly affair. "Over a century ago, Trinity College London sent its first group of examiners to assess skills of music-learners in India. Imagine how they would have come to India? Naturally, they took a sea route," he pointed out.
Mr. Rae says that Trinity's reputation in conducting skill assessment tests has a long history and it focuses on giving a direction to learners. A certificate from Trinity would help one establish his proficiency level anywhere in the world.
The Trinity examiners are affable, pleasing and easy-going. They are trained to greet the examinees with a smile and make them feel free to communicate. While treating the beginners, the examiners engage them in a free-flowing conversation to bring out the best of their language skills.
A recording of an examination in spoken English skills attempted by an Italian schoolgirl was screened for the local principals. Though the girl had an Italian accent while speaking English, she was able to make sense.
Her grammar was not perfect but she could reply to all the questions posed by the examiner. When asked to spell out her favourite topic for a lively discussion, she said that it was a friend of hers.
The examiner spoke to her about her likes and dislikes and the girl was seen participating in the discussion without much inhibition.
The student's questioning ability was also put to test.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Mind your language, The Hindu, Hyderabad 9Jul06
Clinton Rae from Trinity College London feels that English should be taught from a young age
"The beauty of the English language is its adaptability," feels Clinton Rae, director of language examinations, Trinity College, London, while talking to the media about the recent trends in testing of English language skill and benefits of international language certification for Indian students. And to think, how true is this statement. Every country, including ours, has moulded that language the way it wants.
"Language should be taught well from a very young age. That's the reason we aim our courses at school children irrespective of which school or place they belong to," emphasis Rae who was in town to promote ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) examinations conducted by Trinity College since 2004. "Here you have this concept of `by hearting' lessons. This habit doesn't exist in the UK. Language is about ability and not about mere knowledge," he adds.
How different does he find the Indian English compared to the one spoken in the UK? "I don't think there's much gap."
Joe Tun Sein, consultant, examinations division, Orient Longman, which is the National Manager for ESOL, explains, "The quality of English has gone down considerably in India, both spoken as well as written. May be because regionalism and regional languages are strong here."
Shallow learning
But with the advent of the BPO and ITES culture, English language has taken a different meaning altogether. Three months to six months of training and the employees are expected to perfect the language irrespective of which background they come from. And Clinton is not very appreciative of this trend. "This is a very shallow way of learning. It doesn't allow one to delve into the details. To speak a language the right way, one needs to understand and know its grammar. It doesn't matter which accent you speak in, if you can't speak it correctly," he points out.
He feels that unlike many countries, India has a lot of advantages when it comes to English. "The language is quite widely used in the country and is part of the syllabus of most schools. We just need to take it from there and make it better," says Clinton, who is on his second visit to India.
MANGALA RAMAMOORTHY
"The beauty of the English language is its adaptability," feels Clinton Rae, director of language examinations, Trinity College, London, while talking to the media about the recent trends in testing of English language skill and benefits of international language certification for Indian students. And to think, how true is this statement. Every country, including ours, has moulded that language the way it wants.
"Language should be taught well from a very young age. That's the reason we aim our courses at school children irrespective of which school or place they belong to," emphasis Rae who was in town to promote ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) examinations conducted by Trinity College since 2004. "Here you have this concept of `by hearting' lessons. This habit doesn't exist in the UK. Language is about ability and not about mere knowledge," he adds.
How different does he find the Indian English compared to the one spoken in the UK? "I don't think there's much gap."
Joe Tun Sein, consultant, examinations division, Orient Longman, which is the National Manager for ESOL, explains, "The quality of English has gone down considerably in India, both spoken as well as written. May be because regionalism and regional languages are strong here."
Shallow learning
But with the advent of the BPO and ITES culture, English language has taken a different meaning altogether. Three months to six months of training and the employees are expected to perfect the language irrespective of which background they come from. And Clinton is not very appreciative of this trend. "This is a very shallow way of learning. It doesn't allow one to delve into the details. To speak a language the right way, one needs to understand and know its grammar. It doesn't matter which accent you speak in, if you can't speak it correctly," he points out.
He feels that unlike many countries, India has a lot of advantages when it comes to English. "The language is quite widely used in the country and is part of the syllabus of most schools. We just need to take it from there and make it better," says Clinton, who is on his second visit to India.
MANGALA RAMAMOORTHY
Registration on for Trinity exams in English, The Hindu, Chennai 8-Jul-06
Objective of exams is to upgrade language skills of students
CHENNAI: Although the Trinity Examinations in English have been offered in India for only two years now, parents from small towns and semi-urban areas are showing great interest in it.
This is connected to the IT boom and the requirement for people with good communication skills, said Joe Tun Sein of Orient Longman Private Ltd., national manager for Trinity College, London, in India.
He says there is an increasing awareness about the importance of English proficiency for employability.
Clinton Rae, director of Languages Examinations, Trinity College, London, was in the city to talk to teachers about the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE), a four-skill examination, and the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE).
Eligibility
The examinations are open to anyone seven years and above, and can be taken in about 40 centres across the country.
Mr. Rae said the objective of these exams is to upgrade the English speaking skills and standards of the language in schools. But, the examinations were also gradually being accepted as a test of proficiency in the language in universities in Europe, Central and Southern America, and China.
They examine half-a-million people every year. A UK-based examiner conducts each exam.
In India, the exams are conducted three times a year in February, September and November. Unlike IELTS and TOEFL, which are scores that need constant updating, the Trinity Exam results are not time-bound.
Orient Longman is concentrating on schools as, in India, the language isn't really taught in colleges.
Registration is currently open in Chennai for the examinations. The last date for the receipt of applications is September 10 for the GESE exam, which can be taken from November 8 to 11, and the ISE exam on October 18.
For more details, call Orient Longman Pvt. Ltd. at 044 - 28523346.
CHENNAI: Although the Trinity Examinations in English have been offered in India for only two years now, parents from small towns and semi-urban areas are showing great interest in it.
This is connected to the IT boom and the requirement for people with good communication skills, said Joe Tun Sein of Orient Longman Private Ltd., national manager for Trinity College, London, in India.
He says there is an increasing awareness about the importance of English proficiency for employability.
Clinton Rae, director of Languages Examinations, Trinity College, London, was in the city to talk to teachers about the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE), a four-skill examination, and the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE).
Eligibility
The examinations are open to anyone seven years and above, and can be taken in about 40 centres across the country.
Mr. Rae said the objective of these exams is to upgrade the English speaking skills and standards of the language in schools. But, the examinations were also gradually being accepted as a test of proficiency in the language in universities in Europe, Central and Southern America, and China.
They examine half-a-million people every year. A UK-based examiner conducts each exam.
In India, the exams are conducted three times a year in February, September and November. Unlike IELTS and TOEFL, which are scores that need constant updating, the Trinity Exam results are not time-bound.
Orient Longman is concentrating on schools as, in India, the language isn't really taught in colleges.
Registration is currently open in Chennai for the examinations. The last date for the receipt of applications is September 10 for the GESE exam, which can be taken from November 8 to 11, and the ISE exam on October 18.
For more details, call Orient Longman Pvt. Ltd. at 044 - 28523346.
Trinity Exams to Improve English Proficiency, Indiavarta, Chennai 8-Jul-06
Trinity Exams to improve English proficiency
Saturday July 8 2006 11:27 IST
CHENNAI: It has been only two years since the Trinity examinations in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) were brought to India through Orient Longman.
And last year, 3,000 students wrote the exam and this year we expect an increase of at least 8 times, said Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, Trinity College of London.
While addressing mediapersons in the city, he said that the College through Orient Longman conducts the Integrated Skills in English examinations (ISE) and Graded examinations in spoken English (GESE) for people across all age groups across 40 centres in India.
“India has a head start over other countries. And there has been an increased awareness and a need to improve English and raise English standards in schools,” he said.
The exams like IELTS and TOEFL are filtration exams and check the status of learning, he said, while this certification from Trinity aims towards improving your proficiency of English and how well you can use the language.”
Adding that the schools train students for these exams and Orient Longman help teachers to prepare the students, he said, “We will take this forward in three phases to create awareness this year. We will target schools first and then colleges and individuals.”
The consultant, Examinations Division, Orient Longman, Joe Tun Sein said, “We have got a very good response from semi-urban areas and smaller towns in the country. And we will develop ways of taking this on a wider basis.”
And talking about the acceptance of these exams in Universities overseas, Clinton said, “We are one of the strongest in the Europe. And we have our presence in Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, China and other countries. We are still exploring the possibilities of developing this.”
The ESOL examinations are conducted in February, September and November in India.
Saturday July 8 2006 11:27 IST
CHENNAI: It has been only two years since the Trinity examinations in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) were brought to India through Orient Longman.
And last year, 3,000 students wrote the exam and this year we expect an increase of at least 8 times, said Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, Trinity College of London.
While addressing mediapersons in the city, he said that the College through Orient Longman conducts the Integrated Skills in English examinations (ISE) and Graded examinations in spoken English (GESE) for people across all age groups across 40 centres in India.
“India has a head start over other countries. And there has been an increased awareness and a need to improve English and raise English standards in schools,” he said.
The exams like IELTS and TOEFL are filtration exams and check the status of learning, he said, while this certification from Trinity aims towards improving your proficiency of English and how well you can use the language.”
Adding that the schools train students for these exams and Orient Longman help teachers to prepare the students, he said, “We will take this forward in three phases to create awareness this year. We will target schools first and then colleges and individuals.”
The consultant, Examinations Division, Orient Longman, Joe Tun Sein said, “We have got a very good response from semi-urban areas and smaller towns in the country. And we will develop ways of taking this on a wider basis.”
And talking about the acceptance of these exams in Universities overseas, Clinton said, “We are one of the strongest in the Europe. And we have our presence in Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, China and other countries. We are still exploring the possibilities of developing this.”
The ESOL examinations are conducted in February, September and November in India.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Trinity English Examination Centre was launched on August 1 at R.R.High School, Khammam, The Hindu 12-Aug-05
B.M.Muhammed Ali, senior vice-president, Orient Longman, Hyderabad, was chief guest at the function.
The school had registered itself for two suits — GESE (graded examinations in spoken English) and ISE (integrated skills in examinations). Mr. Ali stressed the imperative need for improving communication skills exposing the students to English Language Proficiency Examination (ELPE) of international standard.
Joe Tun Sein, senior consultant of Orient Longman, the school director, Chava Satynarayana Prasad, were present when the Orient Longman staff gave an audio-visual presentation.
The school had registered itself for two suits — GESE (graded examinations in spoken English) and ISE (integrated skills in examinations). Mr. Ali stressed the imperative need for improving communication skills exposing the students to English Language Proficiency Examination (ELPE) of international standard.
Joe Tun Sein, senior consultant of Orient Longman, the school director, Chava Satynarayana Prasad, were present when the Orient Longman staff gave an audio-visual presentation.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Trinity College to OK your English, Express India 14-Apr-04
New Delhi, April 14: Orient Longman and Trinity College London, today announced their partnership, which will offer the two Trinity College London examinations in India.
The two examinations will be the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE).
The assessments are accredited in the UK by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority and are recognised worldwide.
A series of workshops were held over a span of 10 days in Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai, to mark the launch of the two examinations. The first workshop was held at Hyderabad on April 5.
Clinton Rae, director of Language examinations at Trinity College announced the new partnership at a launch organised at the India International Centre.
The workshop held in Delhi had a ‘‘tremendous’’ response, Rae said.
‘‘This is the first launch of our partnership. We will soon be launching an India-specific test for our College. Trinity College has been offering assessment to Indians in drama and speech for the last 70 years and we are now exploring the field of spoken English,’’ Rae said.
‘‘Trinity College will be providing expertise, examiners and experience. Orient Longman will be conducting the exercise for us,’’ Rae said.
B.M. Mohammad Ali, vice president, Languages and Literature Division, Orient Longman said: ‘‘In India, there is no benchmark to validate spoken English skills. Through this new partnership, we aim to provide just that. While the expertise will come from Trinity itself, we will be their India managers. It will be our job to contact schools, carry out orientation programmes for school teachers and organise workshops.’’
The two examinations will be the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE).
The assessments are accredited in the UK by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority and are recognised worldwide.
A series of workshops were held over a span of 10 days in Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai, to mark the launch of the two examinations. The first workshop was held at Hyderabad on April 5.
Clinton Rae, director of Language examinations at Trinity College announced the new partnership at a launch organised at the India International Centre.
The workshop held in Delhi had a ‘‘tremendous’’ response, Rae said.
‘‘This is the first launch of our partnership. We will soon be launching an India-specific test for our College. Trinity College has been offering assessment to Indians in drama and speech for the last 70 years and we are now exploring the field of spoken English,’’ Rae said.
‘‘Trinity College will be providing expertise, examiners and experience. Orient Longman will be conducting the exercise for us,’’ Rae said.
B.M. Mohammad Ali, vice president, Languages and Literature Division, Orient Longman said: ‘‘In India, there is no benchmark to validate spoken English skills. Through this new partnership, we aim to provide just that. While the expertise will come from Trinity itself, we will be their India managers. It will be our job to contact schools, carry out orientation programmes for school teachers and organise workshops.’’
Orient Longman, Trinity College tie-up on English exam, The Hindu 12-Apr-04
CHENNAI. April 11. Trinity College, London, has tied up with publisher, Orient Longman, to conduct `English for Speakers of Other Languages' (ESOL) examinations in the city, starting this year. This was announced on Saturday at the end of a workshop on Trinity's ESOL examinations.
"The time is right for Indians to recognise that they can have a benchmark for English language speaking skills in India," says Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, Trinity College.
The college will conduct Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISEE) for those interested in getting a certification for their language skills.
Students, according to their proficiency level in English, as ascertained by teachers at Orient Longman, will take their GESE examinations under the Grade they fall into.
"There are 12 Grades - the first is for beginners while Grade 12 is the benchmark that matches skills of native English speakers," Mr. Rae said.
The ISEE examinations are for those wishing to record their proficiency and achievements in English. The GESE tests will be conducted through personal one-on-one interviews.
"There are about 300 of us, who examine students all over the world. I have gone to 14 countries myself," says Lynda Coney, senior examiner from the college.
"We're experienced in dealing with students across age groups. My youngest candidate was seven-years-old and the oldest 76," she said.
Trinity College has been testing language skills for more than 60 years and conducting examinations for students in the city in the disciplines of music, dance and drama, said B.M. Mohammed Ali, vice-president, Languages and Literature Division of Orient Longman.
For more details click: exams@orientlongman.com.
"The time is right for Indians to recognise that they can have a benchmark for English language speaking skills in India," says Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, Trinity College.
The college will conduct Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISEE) for those interested in getting a certification for their language skills.
Students, according to their proficiency level in English, as ascertained by teachers at Orient Longman, will take their GESE examinations under the Grade they fall into.
"There are 12 Grades - the first is for beginners while Grade 12 is the benchmark that matches skills of native English speakers," Mr. Rae said.
The ISEE examinations are for those wishing to record their proficiency and achievements in English. The GESE tests will be conducted through personal one-on-one interviews.
"There are about 300 of us, who examine students all over the world. I have gone to 14 countries myself," says Lynda Coney, senior examiner from the college.
"We're experienced in dealing with students across age groups. My youngest candidate was seven-years-old and the oldest 76," she said.
Trinity College has been testing language skills for more than 60 years and conducting examinations for students in the city in the disciplines of music, dance and drama, said B.M. Mohammed Ali, vice-president, Languages and Literature Division of Orient Longman.
For more details click: exams@orientlongman.com.
English tests for users of different tongues, The Telegraph 13-Apr-04
SUDESHNA BANERJEE
Globalisation has made it necessary for the world to speak the same language — English. And the urge is reflected in the increasing popularity of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) examinations that Trinity College, London, conducts the world over.
“The tests, now more than 70 years old, have turned really big in the past 10 years,” affirms Clinton Rae, director of language examinations at Trinity, in town to launch the language tests in India in collaboration with Orient Longman. While Italy and Spain have traditionally been big markets, it is China and India that are now being targeted as sunrise segments.
Comparing the Asian neighbours, Rae points out how they differed in their needs. “China does not have a tradition of speaking English. Sections of the community write fluently, but due to a lack of an English-speaking culture, their conversational skills are poor. India, in contrast, has a history of speaking the language and has evolved its own idiom. But the people here were speaking amongst themselves and not to the world. International business collaborations, as well as aspirations of higher education abroad, have triggered the urge to pick up what we call international English,” explained Rae.
Trinity, an examining body dating back to 1877 and known here for its music certification, has brought two tests — The Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English (ISE).
The GESE is a series of tests that assess communication skills of candidates, age seven onwards. “I have even tested a 76-year-old Spanish grandmother who wanted to brush up a practice she had left behind in her childhood,” laughed Lynda Coney, one of Trinity’s 300 international examiners, who discussed the testing procedure with an assembly of teachers from city schools and colleges on Monday.
The ISE is more comprehensive, taking into account reading, writing and listening, as well.
According to Coney, who conducted similar meetings in Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai before landing in Calcutta, the tests can last from five minutes to 25 minutes, depending on the level chosen, and cost from Rs 1,700 to Rs 12,000.
How useful would such tests be for students here? Principal of M.B. Girl’s School Malini Bhagat felt the internationally-acclaimed certificate would come handy for students and employees looking to prove their language proficiency abroad.
Sucheta Mukherjee, head of the English department at Loreto College, held out a note of doubt about the “prohibitive costs”.
But with call centres and medical companies showing interest as well, Orient Longman, the country managers of the Trinity tests, are in positive mood.
Globalisation has made it necessary for the world to speak the same language — English. And the urge is reflected in the increasing popularity of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) examinations that Trinity College, London, conducts the world over.
“The tests, now more than 70 years old, have turned really big in the past 10 years,” affirms Clinton Rae, director of language examinations at Trinity, in town to launch the language tests in India in collaboration with Orient Longman. While Italy and Spain have traditionally been big markets, it is China and India that are now being targeted as sunrise segments.
Comparing the Asian neighbours, Rae points out how they differed in their needs. “China does not have a tradition of speaking English. Sections of the community write fluently, but due to a lack of an English-speaking culture, their conversational skills are poor. India, in contrast, has a history of speaking the language and has evolved its own idiom. But the people here were speaking amongst themselves and not to the world. International business collaborations, as well as aspirations of higher education abroad, have triggered the urge to pick up what we call international English,” explained Rae.
Trinity, an examining body dating back to 1877 and known here for its music certification, has brought two tests — The Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English (ISE).
The GESE is a series of tests that assess communication skills of candidates, age seven onwards. “I have even tested a 76-year-old Spanish grandmother who wanted to brush up a practice she had left behind in her childhood,” laughed Lynda Coney, one of Trinity’s 300 international examiners, who discussed the testing procedure with an assembly of teachers from city schools and colleges on Monday.
The ISE is more comprehensive, taking into account reading, writing and listening, as well.
According to Coney, who conducted similar meetings in Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai before landing in Calcutta, the tests can last from five minutes to 25 minutes, depending on the level chosen, and cost from Rs 1,700 to Rs 12,000.
How useful would such tests be for students here? Principal of M.B. Girl’s School Malini Bhagat felt the internationally-acclaimed certificate would come handy for students and employees looking to prove their language proficiency abroad.
Sucheta Mukherjee, head of the English department at Loreto College, held out a note of doubt about the “prohibitive costs”.
But with call centres and medical companies showing interest as well, Orient Longman, the country managers of the Trinity tests, are in positive mood.
Orient Longman In Pact With Trinity College, The Financial Express 8-May-04
MUMBAI, MAY 7: India’s leading publisher, Orient Longman has tied up with Trinity College, London, to bring the Trinity English for Speakers of Other Languages (Trinity ESOL) examinations to India. Students have been appearing for the tests at an individual level, but this tie-up is expected to formalise the exams and widen their base.
Unlike Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), these exams do not provide direct entry to students and professionals who wish to go abroad. However, they are considered a benchmark in testing one’s knowledge of English and are useful to educational institutions, employers seeking to evaluate their staff, call centres and corporate houses.
The syllabus is exhaustive yet easy, and students do not have to buy any special materials. Every exam involves a conversation with a Trinity examiner who informs the learner about topics that his teachers have helped him to choose.
In Mumbai, Kiran Phopale, Assistant Manager, Marketing, Orient Longman, has been receiving inquiries from people who wish to take the exam.
She says, “Trinity’s spoken English examinations have international validity. More than 30 British universities and colleges of higher education recognise Trinity Grade 10 in spoken English, as the minimum level of spoken English needed to undertake undergraduate study successfully. Trinity’s international certificates also show universities and potential employers that you have a level of language ability that is sufficient for your career objectives.”
Orient Longman will initially offer two examinations in India, the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE). The GESE is a series of tests that assesses students, who are just beginning to learn the language right upto those who are close to achieving near first-language fluency. Anybody over the age of seven can apply. The ISE examinations is meant for those who would like to record their achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English.
Trinity offers these exams in about 50 countries.
This is the only examination where a native speaking faculty trained by Trinity comes down to the test centres to conduct the test. All that is required is an adequate number of students to make it viable.
Successful candidates are sent an official certificate from London within eight weeks of the exam.
Ms Phopale adds that there is no entrance test. “Anyone who wants to apply may register through Orient Longman. The candidate will have to pay only the examination fees of Rs 1,700-6,000 for the GESE, and Rs 6,000-12,000 for the ISE exam, depending upon the grade upon the exam. The location depends on the number of participants from a particular area or an institution,” she says.
The examinations are being formally launched through a series of workshops in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad. The workshops will be conducted by Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, and Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner at Trinity College London.
Unlike Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), these exams do not provide direct entry to students and professionals who wish to go abroad. However, they are considered a benchmark in testing one’s knowledge of English and are useful to educational institutions, employers seeking to evaluate their staff, call centres and corporate houses.
The syllabus is exhaustive yet easy, and students do not have to buy any special materials. Every exam involves a conversation with a Trinity examiner who informs the learner about topics that his teachers have helped him to choose.
In Mumbai, Kiran Phopale, Assistant Manager, Marketing, Orient Longman, has been receiving inquiries from people who wish to take the exam.
She says, “Trinity’s spoken English examinations have international validity. More than 30 British universities and colleges of higher education recognise Trinity Grade 10 in spoken English, as the minimum level of spoken English needed to undertake undergraduate study successfully. Trinity’s international certificates also show universities and potential employers that you have a level of language ability that is sufficient for your career objectives.”
Orient Longman will initially offer two examinations in India, the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE). The GESE is a series of tests that assesses students, who are just beginning to learn the language right upto those who are close to achieving near first-language fluency. Anybody over the age of seven can apply. The ISE examinations is meant for those who would like to record their achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English.
Trinity offers these exams in about 50 countries.
This is the only examination where a native speaking faculty trained by Trinity comes down to the test centres to conduct the test. All that is required is an adequate number of students to make it viable.
Successful candidates are sent an official certificate from London within eight weeks of the exam.
Ms Phopale adds that there is no entrance test. “Anyone who wants to apply may register through Orient Longman. The candidate will have to pay only the examination fees of Rs 1,700-6,000 for the GESE, and Rs 6,000-12,000 for the ISE exam, depending upon the grade upon the exam. The location depends on the number of participants from a particular area or an institution,” she says.
The examinations are being formally launched through a series of workshops in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad. The workshops will be conducted by Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, and Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner at Trinity College London.
Trinity ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) examinations to India, The Hindu Business Line 7-Apr-04
Hyderabad , April 6
FOR call centres, software documentation professionals, educational institutions and firms in India looking for an evaluation standard for their staff in English language, there is some interesting news.
Orient Longman, the publishing house, and Trinity College, London, have joined hands to bring the Trinity ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) examinations to India.
Those who get through these examinations could be suitable candidates with English language proficiency for call centre trainees and trainers. Similarly, individuals who wish to make the move to advance their careers and companies intending to assess their staff's English proficiency could find it useful.
Under the partnership, Orient Longman will initially offer two Trinity College examinations in India — the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examination (ISE). The examinations would be formally launched this month through workshops in New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad. These workshops would be conducted by Mr Clinton Rae, Director of Language Examinations, and Ms Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner, Trinity College, according to a press release from Orient Longman here.
Trinity College has been setting standards in testing English language for more than 60 years. Accredited in the UK by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Trinity assessments are recognised worldwide, the release said.
The GESE is a progressive series of tests to assess students from their first step in English to near first-language fluency.
The ISE exams are on the other hand intended for all those who wish to record achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English and possess internationally recognised certified evidence of proficiency in these four language skills.
FOR call centres, software documentation professionals, educational institutions and firms in India looking for an evaluation standard for their staff in English language, there is some interesting news.
Orient Longman, the publishing house, and Trinity College, London, have joined hands to bring the Trinity ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) examinations to India.
Those who get through these examinations could be suitable candidates with English language proficiency for call centre trainees and trainers. Similarly, individuals who wish to make the move to advance their careers and companies intending to assess their staff's English proficiency could find it useful.
Under the partnership, Orient Longman will initially offer two Trinity College examinations in India — the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examination (ISE). The examinations would be formally launched this month through workshops in New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad. These workshops would be conducted by Mr Clinton Rae, Director of Language Examinations, and Ms Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner, Trinity College, according to a press release from Orient Longman here.
Trinity College has been setting standards in testing English language for more than 60 years. Accredited in the UK by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Trinity assessments are recognised worldwide, the release said.
The GESE is a progressive series of tests to assess students from their first step in English to near first-language fluency.
The ISE exams are on the other hand intended for all those who wish to record achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English and possess internationally recognised certified evidence of proficiency in these four language skills.
English language institute in Delhi, The Tribune 15-Apr-04
The Orient Longman and Trinity College London will now bring the prestigious trinity ESOL (English for Speakers of Other languages examinations to India. Trinity College London has been setting standards in testing English language for more than 60 years.
Each year, an increasing number of language learners, in fifty countries the world over, have been turning to Trinity for internationally recognised qualifications.
Accredited in the UK by the qualifications and curriculum authorities, the Trinity assessment is recognised worldwide.
Each year, an increasing number of language learners, in fifty countries the world over, have been turning to Trinity for internationally recognised qualifications.
Accredited in the UK by the qualifications and curriculum authorities, the Trinity assessment is recognised worldwide.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Orient Longman joins hands with Trinity College, London, The Hindu Business Line 7-Apr-04
Hyderabad , April 6
FOR call centres, software documentation professionals, educational institutions and firms in India looking for an evaluation standard for their staff in English language, there is some interesting news.
Orient Longman, the publishing house, and Trinity College, London, have joined hands to bring the Trinity ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) examinations to India.
Those who get through these examinations could be suitable candidates with English language proficiency for call centre trainees and trainers. Similarly, individuals who wish to make the move to advance their careers and companies intending to assess their staff's English proficiency could find it useful.
Under the partnership, Orient Longman will initially offer two Trinity College examinations in India — the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examination (ISE). The examinations would be formally launched this month through workshops in New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad. These workshops would be conducted by Mr Clinton Rae, Director of Language Examinations, and Ms Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner, Trinity College, according to a press release from Orient Longman here.
Trinity College has been setting standards in testing English language for more than 60 years. Accredited in the UK by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Trinity assessments are recognised worldwide, the release said.
The GESE is a progressive series of tests to assess students from their first step in English to near first-language fluency.
The ISE exams are on the other hand intended for all those who wish to record achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English and possess internationally recognised certified evidence of proficiency in these four language skills.
FOR call centres, software documentation professionals, educational institutions and firms in India looking for an evaluation standard for their staff in English language, there is some interesting news.
Orient Longman, the publishing house, and Trinity College, London, have joined hands to bring the Trinity ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) examinations to India.
Those who get through these examinations could be suitable candidates with English language proficiency for call centre trainees and trainers. Similarly, individuals who wish to make the move to advance their careers and companies intending to assess their staff's English proficiency could find it useful.
Under the partnership, Orient Longman will initially offer two Trinity College examinations in India — the Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examination (ISE). The examinations would be formally launched this month through workshops in New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad. These workshops would be conducted by Mr Clinton Rae, Director of Language Examinations, and Ms Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner, Trinity College, according to a press release from Orient Longman here.
Trinity College has been setting standards in testing English language for more than 60 years. Accredited in the UK by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Trinity assessments are recognised worldwide, the release said.
The GESE is a progressive series of tests to assess students from their first step in English to near first-language fluency.
The ISE exams are on the other hand intended for all those who wish to record achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English and possess internationally recognised certified evidence of proficiency in these four language skills.
Orient Longman, Trinity College tie-up on English exam, The Hindu 13-Apr-04
CHENNAI. April 11. Trinity College, London, has tied up with publisher, Orient Longman, to conduct `English for Speakers of Other Languages' (ESOL) examinations in the city, starting this year. This was announced on Saturday at the end of a workshop on Trinity's ESOL examinations.
"The time is right for Indians to recognise that they can have a benchmark for English language speaking skills in India," says Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, Trinity College.
The college will conduct Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISEE) for those interested in getting a certification for their language skills.
Students, according to their proficiency level in English, as ascertained by teachers at Orient Longman, will take their GESE examinations under the Grade they fall into.
"There are 12 Grades - the first is for beginners while Grade 12 is the benchmark that matches skills of native English speakers," Mr. Rae said.
The ISEE examinations are for those wishing to record their proficiency and achievements in English. The GESE tests will be conducted through personal one-on-one interviews.
"There are about 300 of us, who examine students all over the world. I have gone to 14 countries myself," says Lynda Coney, senior examiner from the college.
"We're experienced in dealing with students across age groups. My youngest candidate was seven-years-old and the oldest 76," she said.
Trinity College has been testing language skills for more than 60 years and conducting examinations for students in the city in the disciplines of music, dance and drama, said B.M. Mohammed Ali, vice-president, Languages and Literature Division of Orient Longman.
For more details click: exams@orientlongman.com.
"The time is right for Indians to recognise that they can have a benchmark for English language speaking skills in India," says Clinton Rae, director of Language Examinations, Trinity College.
The college will conduct Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISEE) for those interested in getting a certification for their language skills.
Students, according to their proficiency level in English, as ascertained by teachers at Orient Longman, will take their GESE examinations under the Grade they fall into.
"There are 12 Grades - the first is for beginners while Grade 12 is the benchmark that matches skills of native English speakers," Mr. Rae said.
The ISEE examinations are for those wishing to record their proficiency and achievements in English. The GESE tests will be conducted through personal one-on-one interviews.
"There are about 300 of us, who examine students all over the world. I have gone to 14 countries myself," says Lynda Coney, senior examiner from the college.
"We're experienced in dealing with students across age groups. My youngest candidate was seven-years-old and the oldest 76," she said.
Trinity College has been testing language skills for more than 60 years and conducting examinations for students in the city in the disciplines of music, dance and drama, said B.M. Mohammed Ali, vice-president, Languages and Literature Division of Orient Longman.
For more details click: exams@orientlongman.com.
Test your language skills, The Hindu 13-Apr-04
Trinity ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Examinations will now be held in India. This has been made possible as a result of a tie-up between Orient Longman and Trinity College, London. The two Trinity College examinations in India would be the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and the Integrated Skills in English Examinations (ISE).
The GESE is a progressive series of tests that assess the students' grasp of English right from their first levels of learning. Anyone above the age of seven can register for the course. It is specially recommended for English language learners who want to benchmark their English language levels accurately.
The ISE examinations are intended for those who wish to record their achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English, and wish to possess internationally recognised certified evidence of their proficiency in these four language skills.
These examinations would be useful for educational institutions, firms looking for evaluation standards for their staff, trainees and trainers at call centres, software documentation professionals, English language students in colleges, language trainers and other interested individuals.
The examinations would be formally launched this month through workshops in Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad. Clinton Rae, Director of Language Examinations and Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner from the Trinity College, are conducting these workshops.
Each year, an increasing number of language learners, from about 50 countries, have been turning to Trinity for internationally recognised qualification, according to a release from Orient Longman.
Accredited in the U.K. by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Trinity assessments are recognised worldwide. Orient Longman, with over 50 years in the publishing industry and developing indigenous educational material, is also involved in English language training. They would be the national manager for the entire range of Trinity's English language examinations.
SHYMA RAJAGOPAL
The GESE is a progressive series of tests that assess the students' grasp of English right from their first levels of learning. Anyone above the age of seven can register for the course. It is specially recommended for English language learners who want to benchmark their English language levels accurately.
The ISE examinations are intended for those who wish to record their achievements in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English, and wish to possess internationally recognised certified evidence of their proficiency in these four language skills.
These examinations would be useful for educational institutions, firms looking for evaluation standards for their staff, trainees and trainers at call centres, software documentation professionals, English language students in colleges, language trainers and other interested individuals.
The examinations would be formally launched this month through workshops in Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad. Clinton Rae, Director of Language Examinations and Lynda Coney, Senior Examiner from the Trinity College, are conducting these workshops.
Each year, an increasing number of language learners, from about 50 countries, have been turning to Trinity for internationally recognised qualification, according to a release from Orient Longman.
Accredited in the U.K. by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Trinity assessments are recognised worldwide. Orient Longman, with over 50 years in the publishing industry and developing indigenous educational material, is also involved in English language training. They would be the national manager for the entire range of Trinity's English language examinations.
SHYMA RAJAGOPAL
Do you speak English? The Hindu 8-May-04
In the 1880s when a child was to take its music exams in Australia, an examiner from the Trinity Exam Board would set sail from Southampton in England to Australia to examine the child in the nuances of music. Today Trinity, the International Examination Board flies its examiners across and has moved beyond the field of music and provides examinations also in the fields of Drama and Speech, Dance, and especially in English for Speakers of Other Languages and Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages. Trinity offers two types of exams: The Graded examination in Spoken English and The Integrated Skills in English.
In the Graded Examinations in Spoken English, there are 12 grades — here grades mean assessment. The examiner (as in the 1880s) would fly in from the U.K. to test the student on a one to one basis. This ensures that a student has the same examiner wherever he is. Open to anyone above seven years of age, Grades 1 to 3 is the initial stage, while 4 to 7 is the elementary stage, 7 to 9 the intermediate stage and 10 to 12 the advanced stage. The test, which is in the form of a conversation between the examiner and the examinee, is an informal experience. The student is free to prepare his topic from any subject under the sun — so long that he finds it easy and enjoyable to talk about it. It can be from his field of interest, some aspect in his normal routine life, his workplace, anything. The integrated Skills in English Examination on the other hand test the student's skill in listening, speaking, reading and writing. And there are three levels of examination in this category. Three parts constitute the exam, which includes a portfolio of work the student has done, a written exam and a one to one interview.
Today, a partnership between Orient Longman and Trinity College, London, has brought these exams to India. So the mantra for the moment is, Mind your language.
For further details contact: exams@orientlongman.com
In the Graded Examinations in Spoken English, there are 12 grades — here grades mean assessment. The examiner (as in the 1880s) would fly in from the U.K. to test the student on a one to one basis. This ensures that a student has the same examiner wherever he is. Open to anyone above seven years of age, Grades 1 to 3 is the initial stage, while 4 to 7 is the elementary stage, 7 to 9 the intermediate stage and 10 to 12 the advanced stage. The test, which is in the form of a conversation between the examiner and the examinee, is an informal experience. The student is free to prepare his topic from any subject under the sun — so long that he finds it easy and enjoyable to talk about it. It can be from his field of interest, some aspect in his normal routine life, his workplace, anything. The integrated Skills in English Examination on the other hand test the student's skill in listening, speaking, reading and writing. And there are three levels of examination in this category. Three parts constitute the exam, which includes a portfolio of work the student has done, a written exam and a one to one interview.
Today, a partnership between Orient Longman and Trinity College, London, has brought these exams to India. So the mantra for the moment is, Mind your language.
For further details contact: exams@orientlongman.com
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