«English Essentials» was originally designed in answer to a demand for resources suited to first time English learner in the Swiss education community. Although this trilogy meets that demand as a primary aim, International Schools are familiar with the needs of E.S.L. (English as a second Language) students. «English Essentials» meets these needs in that it introduces «survival» vocabulary and concepts that make the first few months a little easier for the E.S.L. student. Within three months, most new students feel comfortable with their «basic interpersonal communication skills» (BICS) in the classroom and on the playground. This is partly due to an outstanding ESL department who furnish new students with «Survival Skills» or the «English Essentials», but mainly due to the open-minded attitudes of our students and staff. After all, research confirms that effectiveness of teaching in the area of a new language depends on our ability to celebrate mother cultures and languages. «English Essentials» can be used alongside other fun resources as a support to any English language program. The songs follow a logical progression of vocabulary acquisition as reflects in any holistic approach to language teaching. Furthermore, music is an enjoyable, interactive and memorable learning tool.