1. Is this program correlated with recognized ESL proficiency levels (TESOL, CEFR, etc.)?
 

No.
 

Local Lingo is not formally aligned with, accredited by, or recognized by any official ESL certification or assessment framework, including:
 

• TESOL International Association

• CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

• WIDA Consortium

• CASAS
   

Completion of this program does not result in certification, testing scores, or recognized proficiency levels.

Local Lingo is designed as a conversation-based, community-centered learning experience, not a credentialed academic pathway.
 

2. Is there an entry assessment to place students in a specific level?

No.
 

Local Lingo is intentionally designed to be multi-level, so no placement test is required.

Lessons are written to work with mixed-ability groups. Facilitators can naturally adjust questions, prompts, and activities depending on the speaking level of the students.
 

This makes the program especially well-suited for community settings, volunteer-led classes, and relational learning environments where students may have varying levels of English experience.
 

3. Can I start with Conversation Corner?
 

We strongly recommend that a student’s first experience with the program be Neighborhood Talk.
 

Neighborhood Talk:
 

• Builds foundational vocabulary

• Introduces cultural context

• Establishes conversational rhythm

• Helps students gain early confidence

• Provides natural and appropriate gospel exposure within a relational, conversational setting
   

Conversation Corner works best once students have some comfort and shared context.
 

4. Who is this program designed for?
 

Local Lingo works best in:
 

• Community ESL settings (ie. a grocery store, nail salon, restaurant etc.)

• Church-based programs (ie. a class hosted by a local church)

• Relational, small-group environments (ie. neighbors in an apartment complex)
   

It is ideal for organizations prioritizing connection, confidence, and real-life conversation practice.
 

5. Is this a replacement for formal ESL classes?
 

No.
 

Local Lingo is not a substitute for structured, level-based ESL programs that prepare students for standardized testing or academic advancement.
 

It is a complementary conversation framework that strengthens:
 

• Speaking confidence

• Cultural fluency

• Community integration
   

6. Do instructors need formal ESL certification?
 

No.
 

The lessons are written clearly and include step-by-step facilitation guidance, making them accessible to both trained teachers and volunteers.
 

7. Is grammar taught in this program?
 

Grammar is not taught explicitly through formal instruction or drills.
 

Instead, language patterns develop naturally through structured conversation and repetition.