The Focused Inquiry Language Resource Center:

English language support for students in UNIV 111 & 112

The Focused Inquiry Language Resource Center provides specialized support to English language learners (ELLs) in UNIV 111 and 112. The FI LRC encourages success by helping students develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension, fluency in composition, oral communication, and understanding of American culture and academic expectations.

Staffed by FI faculty and graduate teaching assistants, the FI LRC offers individual coaching sessions, small group workshops and the LRC Diversity Club, which meets once a month for conversation and cultural activities. While focusing primarily on the needs of non-native speakers, the FI LRC is open to all students currently enrolled in UNIV 111 or 112 who want to improve their English academic language skills.

The FI LRC offers individual coaching sessions available by appointment. Interested students should come by the LRC office in Harris Hall 5149 or send an email to Wendy Nugent at

The FI LRC will offer a Fall Workshop Series focused on specific language skill areas directly connected to the coursework of UNIV 111 and 112. These workshops are taught by LRC staff and FI faculty. Workshops will cover a new theme each week at several different times for students with busy schedules. Students can attend as many workshops as they like!

The Fall workshops will begin the first week of October. More info to come!

·  Practice English skills in a small-group setting.

·  Learn tips and techniques to become a better student.

·  No additional homework!

·  Activities and materials directly connected to Focused Inquiry assignments.

Workshop Themes

·  Improving English grammar and mechanics

·  Writing and revising your essays

·  Comprehending FI readings

·  Understanding assignments

·  Practicing discussion and oral presentations

·  American culture and the university experience

The FI LRC Staff: Amy Colombo, Jake Khoury, and Wendy Nugent http://www.vcu.edu/uc/fi/FocusedInquiryLanguageResourceCenter.htm