Adult Learners

Becoming an Adult Learner

Project Adult Literacy offers free one-on-one tutoring and small group classes for those who qualify.

To be eligible for our program, every applicant must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age*
  • Possess basic English conversational skills
  • Demonstrate a program-related goal or need
  • Commit to the program for at least one year
  • Have a valid email address & proficient knowledge of computer use

In addition, you must meet at least two of the three requirements below:

  • Live or work in the Newport Beach area
  • Be an Orange County resident for at least two years*
  • Have completed or partially completed your K-12 education in the U.S.*

*Documentation verification is required

LEARNER ENROLLMENT IS NOW CLOSED FOR 2025.

If you are interested in joining our program, registration for 2026 applications will open in January 2026. 

 

Eligible applicants may be recommended for tutoring, classes, or both. If accepted, the next step in the process is to attend our New Learner Orientation. RSVP is available by invitation only. 

UPCOMING NEW LEARNER ORIENTATION DATES:

  • August 2025

Once you attend the orientation, you will be asked to take an English assessment exam. This assessment will help us determine where your English skills currently are and how to best support your learning goals and needs.

After you complete your assessment, learners will meet with the Literacy Coordinator to discuss their results and determine if PAL is the right fit for their learning needs. Once approved, learners can begin taking classes immediately. Learners who qualify for tutoring services will have to wait while we find the right tutor match. Wait times are subject to tutor availability and matching skill sets.

We look forward to helping you begin your learning journey! 

Best, 
Project Adult Literacy

PAL Classes for Learners

We offer many classes to help support our learners and improve their skills.  Classes and activities are open to all learners who are currently enrolled in the Project Adult Literacy Program.  Please call (949) 717-3874 for more information about classes.

Class size is extremely limited, and registration is required. Please be advised that classes are subject to change.

Afternoon Book Club with David - A great way for learners to read and discuss various topics related to the current book. In this class, you will improve your vocabulary, reading comprehension and English-speaking skills while reading and discussing short novels. Discover the excitement of completing and understanding an entire book in the course of a few weeks!

American Culture with Lily – Want to learn more about American ways? This class offers you the opportunity to learn about American culture and all the richness that comes with it. Learners will improve their reading, writing and conversational skills as they learn about American music, movies, delicious cuisine, National Parks and more.

American Sitcoms with Marcia - An intriguing class that focuses on popular TV sitcoms and discusses everyday situations and events. Each learner will observe, study and interpret everyday verbal and facial expressions. 

Idioms in Everyday Conversations with Adele - Have you ever heard a phrase, but didn’t understand what it meant? (For example: I’m feeling a bit under the weather.) In this class, you will learn all about common expressions and sayings used in the English language known as IDIOMS. Learners will study various idioms and their meanings, while learning how to use them in every day conversations. 

Job Search Success with Patty - Gain the confidence you need for your job search! In this class you will focus on learning and understanding common words and phrases in job postings and applications, so you can apply for any job with confidence. You will get hands-on practice writing cover letters and professional emails, reviewing sample job applications, and participating in group interview exercises to help you feel more comfortable and prepared. This class is designed for those who want to build the English skills needed to find and get a job.

Mastering Conversation & Communication with Helene - Want to improve your English conversation and communication skills? This is the class for you! You will discuss different topics related to communication with other learners in the group. You will also learn to share ideas, expand your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation and ultimately have fun speaking English with others. 

Mystery Book Club with Marcia (for Beginner Learners) - Is someone missing? Were they murdered? Join us for a suspenseful Mystery Book Club where learners will read intriguing short chapter books, learning new vocabulary and improving pronunciation. In this class, you will improve your reading and English-speaking skills while discussing characters, motives and clues, while trying to solve the crime before the detective does.

News for You with Marcia – A fun class that focuses on staying informed and up-to-date with news around the world by reading the newspaper, discussing current events, sharing your opinions and learning new vocabulary. This class will focus on improving learners’ English skills using "News for You" weekly newspaper.

Rom-Com Book Club with Quintin (for Intermediate Learners) - Do you enjoy a good love story with a happy ending? Join us for a fun and engaging Rom-Com Book Club where learners will explore reading romantic comedies and discuss American language and culture. In this class, you will improve your reading and English-speaking skills while discussing characters, plot lines and sharing your thoughts and feelings about what you read. Discover new authors, connect with other learners and fall in love with reading. 

Writing Your Stories with Helene - This is more than just a writing class, it is an opportunity to share the experiences of your life with others. In this class you will improve your writing skills, vocabulary and the ability to express yourself in English. Great for anyone wanting to advance their writing skills.