It can be entered at beginner level with American Hotline Starter, or at false-beginner level with American Hotline Progress when students have already studied some English and have a basic grounding in vocabulary. It has a unique loopback syllabus with extensive recycling and review of language, ensuring that what is studied is learned, retained, and easily recalled when needed. It adopts a problem-solving, step-by-step approach to grammar, asking students first to think about how the language works and then to complete grammar charts accordingly. All four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking are covered. Reading and listening topics strike a balance between cross-curricular themes and areas of particular teenage interest, such as music and fashion. An engaging photostory - 'Jefferson Road' - presents the language spoken by young people today in a context that invites cross-cultural comparison of life through teenage eyes. Project work in clear and logical stages provides opportunities for students to talk and write about their life and to relate language to their own experiences. Through a variety of activities, including a Learning Diary, Self-Checks, and Projects, students are encouraged to develop good learning strategies and to assess their own progress.