ICE is a method for promoting the acquisition of English among migrant workers and others with limited opportunities for formal language learning. It uses a combination of initial and formative assessment, customized learning materials, workplace or community supporters who are trained to provide guidance, and recognition from employers upon completion. The approach is cost-effective compared to traditional ESOL courses and is designed to be flexible so it can meet learners' needs and schedules.

1. ICE Induction to Communication in English

6. ICE – what are the components? ICE Materials: Workbooks, Worksheets, Audio-Visual, On-line Discussion Groups Recruitment Support Practice A&G/Progression Workplace/Community Supporters Training Programme ESOL Tutor Support Network Formative and ‘Final’ Assessment English Automated Language Testing System ( EALTS ) Initial Assessment

8. ICE & Alternatives Short-term Not designed for settled communities Limited Contexts Only for some Limited availability Longish-term Funding limited Capacity Issues Very long-term Funding restricted Capacity Issues Cons Contextualised for workplace Learner-driven Customised materials Flexible Learner-driven Self-contained Progression clear Medium-term Few materials Progression clear Extensive materials Pros Very Low Moderate High Very High Costs No mainstream Awkward Moderate High Funding ICE On-line, (eg ELLIS) ESOL for Work S4L ESOL

11. EALTS English Automated Language Testing System What do the test results look like? Scores are given, matched to plain English descriptions For example: Overall 36-45 (equivalent to pre-entry ESOL) “ Test-taker can handle short utterances using common words and simple structures, but has difficulty following a native-paced conversation. Pronunciation may sometimes not be intelligible; test-taker speaks slowly and pauses, but can convey basic information to a co-operative listener. ”

12. EALTS English Automated Language Testing System As well as an overall score, separate scores are given for grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and fluency For example: Pronunciation 37-54 (equivalent to Entry Level 2 ESOL) “ Test-taker consistently mispronounces certain consonants and vowels. Speech is mostly intelligible, but some listeners will need to adjust to the accent. Stress may be placed incorrectly in some words, or stress placement may be ambiguous.”