english

Expanding Lives' course takes the emphasis off grammar and develops the girls' confidence in communication and public speaking.

English is taught in middle school and high school and is part of the challenging high school exit exam (Baccalaureate). A certified ESL teacher leads the course with one-on-one attention from American teens. The program culminates with a presentation at the closing ceremony that intertwines the skills learned in leadership and in computer classes. 

In 2012, a student trained in theater arts led activities which significantly enhanced the young women's confidence in speaking before a large group.  They also practiced skits, a common means of spreading public service announcements in Niger and Benin.

The girls document their experiences in the US through writing and photos in a scrapbook. This gives them a natural opener for conversations about what they have learned once they return home.